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Ceiling Fan Chain Stuck? (With Solutions)

The chains of ceiling fans can become stuck in a variety of ways, and when they do, it’s often difficult to fix them. Because the chain can be caught on something else, it can become snagged. It will either need to be taken off or you will have to try to fix it. It may take you hours or even days to figure out how to accomplish this if you don’t know-how. Here are a few suggestions for getting your chain unstuck as quickly as possible.

How to fix ceiling fan chain stuck?

In order to resolve the problem with a shucking fan chain, you will need to remove the cap covering the motor and then undo the chain from the fan. Ensure that no screws or other small parts are lost during the process. Reinstall the chain and screw the cap back onto the motor.

You may find this process challenging, but by following the steps below, you can complete that job easily and quickly.

Before calling a professional:

If the chain on your ceiling fan string is stuck, there are a few things you can try before calling a professional. You can loosen the screw that holds it to the motor by loosening it. It may be necessary to remove and replace the entire chain if this doesn’t work. The procedure is outlined below.

Remove all shades from the fan:

The first step is to remove any shades from the fan. It is best to use pliers or a knife to do this. Detach the blades from the fan by removing the screws that hold them in place.

Make sure that no wires or cables are within reach of the chain:

Before removing the chain, make sure that any wires and cables that are within its reach have been removed as well. Anything that connects to a switch, such as a light bulb, falls under this category. Circuit boards may need to be pried out with a screwdriver if necessary.

The chain needs to be fixed once all the wiring has been removed:

Reattach the blades with screws after sliding a chain link between them. You want to tighten them gently without stripping or damaging either blade. Don’t overdo it. Replace any cables or wires as necessary, and then tighten any loose hardware. Put everything back together in reverse order, starting with the fan blade covers. Your fan should now spin freely.

light pull chain stuck issue:

If the ceiling fan light pull chain is stuck, simply disconnect it from the motor and let it hang freely. As you remove the pins, they will likely all come out at once since they are spring-loaded. Try gently wiggling the chain if that doesn’t work. It may be necessary to remove and replace the entire fan light assembly if it moves but still won’t come off easily.

Align correctly:

Eventually, a fan chain will become loose. When your light shade is on, this can cause the blades to touch and make the light swing around. You might just want to check if they’re aligned correctly or if this issue needs to be addressed. If the chain is just loose, you can fix it by replacing the ceiling fan switch.

How to replace the ceiling fan pull chain?

The best thing you can do if your ceiling fan pull chain is malfunctioning is to replace it. Fortunately, you can do this on your own. Fortunately, you can do this on your own. Follow these steps to get started.

Remove the wire from the light:

The pull chain connector for the ceiling fan light should be unscrewed. Tap it off if it’s a dedicated circuit.

Remove the screws:

Remove each of the three pull chain screws at either end of the chain and remove it from the motor housing. You need to keep track of which screws go where you work so you can put them back in correctly when replacing/fixing the chain.

Orient the pin:

Start with the motor if you’re replacing the entire chain. Straighten it out and reassemble it in reverse order. As you screw in the three screws, align each pin so the triangle formed will face the screw head center. Using pliers may be necessary if it gets stubborn. Replace each screw and tighten it securely with a Phillips head screwdriver.

Replacing the connector:

Replace and screw in the pull chain connector. Connect the wire to the connector, attach the light pull chain, and screw it onto the motor housing. Be sure to line up each end of the chain.

Should I Replace a Pull Chain if It’s Gotten Stuck?

Whenever the pull chain gets stuck, it is best to replace it and give the fan a good cleaning. A lubricant can be applied to the chain to help it move freely, or you can use a plunger. The pull chain of a ceiling fan without a replaceable chain can be freed by turning the blade of the fan on its side and sliding it off. It may be necessary, however, for you to call an electrician.

It is much easier to replace a pull chain than to replace an entire fan. Replacement requires only the screws and pull cord, which can be found on the manufacturer’s website or included in your invoice.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Pull Chain?

You may have to spend almost $100 to replace the pull chain. The pull chain switch costs $10. You will have to pay up to $40 for the rest of the materials. Any remaining money will be used for the labor. Labor costs may vary depending on the area. However, they will not exceed $50. The cost of replacing can be reduced by up to 50% if you can handle it yourself.

The process of installing a ceiling fan pull chain generally takes no more than 30 minutes. Most likely, you ordered a pull chain switch from an electrical supply house or a contractor which is the most expensive part of the installation. Normally, that costs about $50. However, you may be able to get a contractor to install your new fan for free if you possess the power tools they will need and satisfy their minimum work-hour requirements.

How to Choose a Replacement Pull Chain?

Be sure to consider the following factors when picking a replacement pull chain:

Consider a long chain:

You should choose a chain that’s twice as long as the one in your fan currently. The cordage will be available in case it gets jammed or caught on something.

Make use of zinc alloy chains:

The type of metal used in the chain. Chains made from zinc alloy are common, but other materials, such as brass, are also available. Zinc alloys are common because they are strong and corrosion-resistant.

The shape of the chain:

There are a variety of loop shapes on chains, and some chains are merely straight links. It would be best if the blades matched the style of the fan.

Choose a strong one:

As the number increases, the chain becomes stronger. The chain you use to operate a fan does not need to be very strong, but one with a high pull strength will be easier to operate.

The price:

Chains made of stronger metals and higher pull strengths are generally more expensive than chains made of less durable materials. If you are just replacing the pull chain, you can save money by following a few simple steps.

Do some research:

Online shopping is a great place to find deals on fan chains. Hardware stores and home improvement retailers offer replacement chains for a fraction of the cost of brand-name chains.

Consult a professional:

You can ask your contractor or electrician to install the chain without charging you extra. You can even get some professionals to do it for free if you meet their work hour requirements. If possible, upgrade to a chain with a stronger pull strength. With a stronger chain, your fan will be easier to operate.

Final Thoughts

There are several ways to fix your ceiling fan chain if it is stuck. Remove the blade from the motor using a pry bar. You may also try removing the screws to remove the motor. If this does not work, you can also use a wrench to reverse the screws. Alternatively, you can replace the chain.