Ceiling Fan Stopped Working But Light Works

When your ceiling fan stops working but the light still works, it can be a frustrating issue. However, it's usually not a sign of a major problem, and you may be able to fix it yourself with a few simple steps. Here are some possible causes and solutions:

Loose Wiring: The most common cause of a ceiling fan that stops working but the light still works is loose wiring. Over time, the vibrations from the fan can cause the wire connections to become loose. To check for loose wiring, turn off the power to the fan at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Then, remove the fan's canopy and check the wire connections. Make sure that all the wires are securely connected and that there are no frayed or damaged wires.

Faulty Capacitor: The capacitor is a small electrical component that helps the fan start and run smoothly. If the capacitor fails, the fan may not be able to start or may run erratically. To check the capacitor, you will need a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the capacitance setting and then touch the probes to the terminals of the capacitor. A good capacitor will have a capacitance reading that is close to the value printed on the capacitor.

Bad Switch: The switch that controls the fan may be faulty. To test the switch, turn off the power to the fan and then remove the switch. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the terminals of the switch. If there is no continuity, the switch is bad and needs to be replaced.

Overheating: If the fan has been running for a long period of time, it may have overheated. This can cause the fan to shut off automatically as a safety precaution. To reset the fan, turn it off and let it cool down for a few hours. Then, turn the fan back on and see if it works properly.

Damaged Motor: In some cases, the fan's motor may be damaged. This can be caused by a power surge, a lightning strike, or simply wear and tear over time. If the motor is damaged, the fan will not be able to start or run. To check the motor, you will need to remove the fan from the ceiling and take it to a qualified electrician for testing.

If you have tried all of the above steps and your ceiling fan still does not work, you may need to call a qualified electrician for further assistance.