Drooping Ceiling Fan Blades? Here’s Why It Happens & How to Fix It

When we returned to our house after a hurricane, every fan blade inside was drooping. That wasn’t surprising. It had taken two weeks for the power to be restored, and without air conditioning for that long, the blades had become saturated by humidity. However, even without extreme weather, fan blades can be prone to sagging.

“Fan blades might droop for any number of reasons, and it is not something to ignore because it may be a hazard if the blades come loose,” says Jordan Benjamin of Done Rite Services. “It can also increase wear and tear on the fan.”

Luckily, the fix is often as easy as tightening a few screws or replacing the blades. Here’s how to figure out why your ceiling fan blades are drooping and whether it’s worth swapping them out or if it’s time to buy a new fan.

What Causes Fans to Droop?

Humidity is one of the most common causes of ceiling fan blades drooping or warping, especially if the blades are made from cheap materials. Other culprits include loose screws, physical damage, like from kids pulling on them, and old age. Over time, the rotational force of the spinning fan can take its toll, especially if the fan is located in a damp environment, such as a kitchen or basement.

“A common misconception is that the blades are drooping due to the motor dying, but this isn’t true,” says Scott Kegerreis of Kura Home Services.

Can I Fix the Droop?

Sometimes. If the screws that hold the blades in place are loose, the fix can be as easy as tightening them. Also, ensure that you wipe off dust buildup, as it can weigh down the blades.

If that doesn’t work, replacement blades are an option. “Check prices, though. Depending on the blades you’re purchasing, it may be more economical to just replace the whole fan,” says Tim Alagushov of IRBIS Air, Plumbing & Electrical.

When replacing blades, it’s also a good idea to address the cause of their damage in the first place. “For example, if you’ve got excess humidity in your home to the degree that it’s impacting your appliances, you would be well-served to speak with an HVAC tech to see what options you have,” says Alagushov.

When To Replace Fan Blades

Replace blades when they are visibly warped, cracked, damaged, worn, unbalanced or causing the fan to vibrate. “Warped blades can strain the motor, while peeling paint or cracking can make a mess and negatively impact your air quality,” says Alagushov. Also, “If a blade is falling apart, it may unexpectedly fly off the fan when it’s in motion, potentially hurting someone or damaging your home.”

When To Replace the Whole Fan

If your ceiling fan is making noise, wobbling, shaking or struggling to maintain speed, it’s probably time to replace it. “If your blades were warped for a long time, they likely put excess stress on the fan, causing the motor to wear down faster,” says Alagushov. “But compare prices and really get to the root cause of the issue before spending money on a solution.”

Ceiling Fan Maintenance

Dust the blades monthly, at a minimum, to prevent debris buildup. Kegerreis recommends using a microfiber cloth to keep dust from scattering everywhere. Then, while you’re up there, inspect the screws for looseness and make sure the mounting box is secure.

“My pro tip: reverse the fan direction twice a year,” says Kegerreis. “A clockwise direction in winter will push warm air down and a counterclockwise direction in the warmer months will provide a cool breeze.”

FAQ

Is replacing a ceiling fan difficult?

It depends. Replacing the blades is generally pretty easy. If you’re handy, replacing the whole ceiling fan also shouldn’t be too difficult to do by yourself. But keep in mind, it can be dangerous. “Since you are dealing with live voltage, I recommend leaving it to a licensed contractor or electrician,” says Benjamin. “Definitely turn the breaker off if you are ever going to attempt it yourself.”

How much should I expect to spend on a ceiling fan?

Basic fans range from around $75 to $250, with prices increasing from there depending on style, size, quality, energy efficiency and features such as lighting and smart controls. “Some high-end, designer ceiling fans can cost thousands, but the average fan shouldn’t run you more than $500,” says Alagushov.

If you opt not to DIY the task, professional installation typically runs between $200 to $300, but varies depending on where you live, plus your ceiling height, electrical access and the complexity of the model you choose.

About the Experts

• Jordan Benjamin is owner of Done Rite Services, an HVAC, plumbing and electrical company in Tucson, Arizona, which routinely handles fan replacements and installations.
• Tim Alagushov is COO of IRBIS Air, Plumbing & Electrical, a San Jose-based HVAC company.
• Scott Kegerreis is owner of Kura Home Services, a company specializing in home maintenance, based along Colorado’s Front Range.

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