I have an older Hampton Bay ceiling fan (I think that is the right brand). The switch to reverse the blades doesn't work. You can push it up to change the blade direction but it just falls back into the down position. I have researched but can't find any web sites where I can buy the part. I have checked at Lowe's and Home Depot with no luck.

Ceilingfanrepair is not here tonight but you can thank him for this post. https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/electrical-lighting/ceiling-fan-troubleshooting-repair-frequently-asked-questions-46738.html You must know the brand for sure and then use his post to contact the correct manufacturer.

I see many Reverse problems, They say have fan blow up in the winter, and down in the summer.
Personally I leave it down all the time.
If its cold, I leave fan off, and if I was to use fan in winter, would still have it "blow down".
To bring the heat down to me?
If you want to always have the switch "Up", you can bypass the switch.
This is if you can't obtain the switch.

True, but these switches are easy to obtain. They are DPDT slide switch rated for 120vAC or greater. Available anywhere.

Ceiling fan parts - Ceiling Fans N More (http://www.ceiling-fans-n-more.com/ceiling-fan-parts.php)

Ceilingfanrepair, how do you find that switch on your link? Thanks

It's not a link selling parts, just a list of parts explaining which ones are available and where.

Try CeilingFanParts.com Home (http://www.ceilingfanparts.com)

You know I recommend them, but a reverse switch is so standard you don't even have to buy online.

Hey Thanks.

Strat, Cf:

The biggest difference between the reverse switch bought online and generic ones is:

1. The one bought online has tapped holes. The tapped holes make it really easy to insert the top screw.

2. It comes prewired with only 4 leads of different colors to connect rather than try to solder and heat shring 2 jumpers

Been there. Done that.

Some hardware stores and home centers sell ones specifically designed for ceiling fans in the ways you mentioned.

Many fans use switches with anywhere from 3-6 leads, not always 4.

Also I don't think a little soldering and using nuts and bolts is that horrible when you're saving $10 or more.