Symptoms
- Clicking sound repeats once per rotation
- Sound may come from the light kit, blades, or motor housing
- Clicking speeds up or slows down with fan speed
Likely causes
- CommonA loose screw or bracket in the light kit or blade armsA loose part striking the housing once per rotation causes a rhythmic click.
- CommonA blade arm not seated fully against the motor housingSlight misalignment can cause a click as the blade passes a certain point.
- PossibleA pull chain or its pull tab tapping against the housingA chain that hangs at the wrong length can tap the fan body as it spins.
- PossibleWiring loosely taped or zip-tied inside the canopy tapping somethingLoose wiring can shift and tap the housing as the fan vibrates.
What to do
- Turn off the fan and let it stop completely.
- Tighten all visible screws on the blades, blade arms, and light kit.
- Check that the pull chain and its tab aren't hanging against the fan body or a light globe.
- Spin the blades slowly by hand to see if you can identify exactly where the click originates.
- Check that each blade arm is seated flush against the motor housing before its screws are tightened.
- Open the canopy carefully, with power off, to check for loose wiring tapping the housing.
- Call an electrician or fan technician if you can't locate the source or it involves opening the motor housing itself.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver
- Step ladder
When to call a pro
Call an electrician or fan technician if tightening visible parts doesn't stop the clicking.
Safety
Use caution
Turn off the fan and let blades stop completely before touching them or the housing.