I have a 3-speed Patton floor fan (made of metal, not plastic) that works great, here is my question. It has always worked great and still does, but one morning recently when I picked it up to move it, it shocked me. Now I'm not sure whether it's safe to use it or not. Also I am wondering what could have caused it. I do remember that the night before I had left the window open all night so it had been blowing cool but dry air in all night (no rain had fallen that night.)

Few things:

1) Even if it's dry out, dew forms. That dew will also form inside of the motor (if I remember right, those are blue, right?) Anyway, this could possibly allow a path of electricity to travel through the motor into you (assuming it was plugged in, even more so if it was on).

2) Look at the cord (unplugged, obviously) for damage. Start from the fan, working outwards.

3) Is your outlet properly grounded? Ace Hardware and other hardware stores have testers for that if you're unsure.

4) Could just be built up static electricity.

Hope this helps :)