Diagnosing a Bad Switch

A faulty ceiling fan switch can cause a variety of problems depending on the type of fan and switch. A bad switch will sometimes fail to turn the fan on, off or switch between settings. Although it may take a while before a fan switch completely stops working, it will eventually need to be replaced after it causes user interruption.
Before a switch is replaced, wiring should be checked to make sure the unit is installed securely. A loose wire can cause a switch to behave as though it's blown. Circuit breakers should also be inspected and wiring to the fan itself is examined for proper connections. If wiring is solid and the switch still acts up, replacement is recommended. These inspections require dismantling the fan near the switch by removing the cover, lighting globes and switch chains.

Selecting a Switch

There are two types of fan switches: two-wire switches and three-wire switches. Most ceiling fans are equipped for two-wire switches. Three-wire switches are used on light fans that use three-way bulbs. Before the switch is removed, the fan is inspected to determine which type switch it calls for. Power is cut off at the breaker and the new switch is removed.

New Switch Installation

A new fan switch is easily replaced using a screwdriver, wire cutters and wire nuts. Switch wires on the fan are matched up with those on the new switch, twisted together and secured with wire nuts. The switch is placed inside and the chain is routed through the hole on the fan's electrical cover. The cover is re-installed and the power turned back on at the breaker. The switch is tested and the rest of the parts are replaced.