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View Full Version : How do I stop the variety of persistent clicking noises of my fan as it rotates?


AJAragorn
May 24, 2011, 11:27 AM
A Hampton Bay ceiling fan in my 11.5' studio bedroom has been a life-saver. An electrician helped with installation 5 years ago, and it works wonderfully--with one minor, persistent glitch: at the lowest setting, the rotation of the fan makes several different kinds of repetitive clicking sounds, in different patterns. Initially, the clicking noise would last for a few minutes, then disappear for a day, or several days. Now it clicks in multiple ways, related to the rotation, the entire time it is on. At the slightly higher speed (there are 4 speeds) the clicking noise diminishes, as the overall sound increases, with the increased speed and wind distribution. The third and fourth levels of speed are too strong for my studio.
What might be some possible solutions for the various clicking noises (I've tried WD-40 to little or no effect)?
Thanks,
AJ

ma0641
May 24, 2011, 12:08 PM
With the fan running, move the base slightly. Does this stop the noise? This is a fairly common complaint when the fan is even slightly off balance. You are hearing the ball mount shift in the socket. First, balance the fan blades, there should be a kit and instructions. Next, with the fan off, grab the downrod and lift it slightly and lightly spray white lithium grease into the joint between the hanger ball and hanger socket. Works 99% of the time.

AJAragorn
May 24, 2011, 12:28 PM
I have rebalanced the fan scores of times, to no permanent effect, but I have not yet tried white lithium grease. I will try that.
Thank you.

meltrol
May 25, 2011, 05:57 AM
The lithium grease probably does the trick. I've had success giving the ball joint a quick shot of silicone spray

ballengerb1
May 25, 2011, 08:06 AM
Does your fan have pull chains, if so wrap them with a rubber band and tell us if the noise changes.