Common ceiling fan problems can range from dirty fan blades to a bent or broken fan arm.

Learn how to fix a noisy ceiling fan to stop the sounds and prevent future problems.

Ceiling fan blades need to be properlybalancedto ensure that the fan can operate at high speeds without wobbling.

ceiling fan

The Spruce / Almar Creative

If necessary, you might also use a cotton swab to get into narrow cracks and crevices.

Inspect the Ceiling Fan Mount

Inspect the ceiling fan mount and brackets by loosening the bracket housing.

Let it rest for several minutes before turning the fan on to test.

dusting the ceiling fan

The Spruce / Almar Creative

Secure the Fasteners

Loose fasteners and other fan parts can cause ongoing noise issues and premature wear.

Use a screwdriver to tighten any loose parts that you find while thoroughly inspecting the entire unit.

Test the Ceiling Fan

Turn the fan on to test if this fixed the wobble.

tightening screws

The Spruce / Almar Creative

Tip

Some blade screws might be sized for a #3 Phillips screwdriver tip.

A #3 bit (which is commonly included in screwdriver sets) has a corresponding flat area.

If you use a #2 screwdriver with #3 screws, you’re likely to strip them.

replacing the canopy cover

The Spruce / Almar Creative

The measurements should be equal; if not, the fan will not rotate evenly.

Tighten the Mounting Screws

Use a screwdriver to tighten the mounting screws on the motor housing.

Just be careful when you are working with the fan arms to avoid breaking them.

Set the bulbs and light covers aside until you are wrapping up the repair.

Tighten the fasteners to secure the new fan blade or arm, then replace any bulbs or light covers.

This can occur if the blades are unbalanced, causing the fan to wobble as it rotates.

Repeat this step until you find the problem blade.

After the weight is in place, remove the clip and test the fan.

If it is still wobbling, you may have more than one blade that is unbalanced.

Avoid using the ceiling fan until a professionalelectriciancan come in to repair or reinstall the electrical box properly.