How to Tell If a Ceiling Fan Is Broken

Check for electrical problems if the ceiling fan does not turn or does not make any noise at all. If it's not an electrical problem, the fan almost certainly has to be replaced,

Notice if the fan produces a burning smell. A fan that smells may very well have a motor and ball bearings that are permanently damaged.

Look to see if the blades turn normally. Blades that turn very slowly, or take longer than usual to begin to spin, are signs the motor and the fan are probably broken beyond repair.

Listen for clicking or scraping noises. The source of the noises can be the result of many things, including a broken (or bent) blade. A blade that is warped can also create a noise and cause the fan to shake badly.

Look to see if the fan has a severe wobble or shake. Some of these problems can be corrected by balancing the blades, but they can also indicate part of the fan is broken.

Listen for a humming noise. A humming noise will often go away on its own, or could indicate a problem with the fan's motor.

Know that some ceiling fans are "lemons'' like any other appliances. Fans can be broken in transit and simply need to be replaced.