How To Control Ceiling Fan Speed

Table of Contents_

How Does a Fan Speed Controller Work
Wall Control
Pull-Chain Control
Remote Control
Smart Ceiling Fan Control

A premium ceiling fan should provide adequate lighting and variable speed control. Knowing how a fan speed controller works helps maximize your home’s air circulation and cooling power. The fan’s built-in wires connect to electronic control systems like light switches or pull chains. That said, you can control modern fan motors with voice activation or remote-control apps. So, read this guide if you want to know how to control ceiling fan speed.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Ceiling fan speed controls regulate the power to your fan blades and control how fast the blades spin.
Some fan models utilize a toggle system that doesn’t grant variable speed control.
Pull-chain fans offer a three-level speed adjustment, and some models feature smart connectivity and app support.

How Does a Fan Speed Controller Work

Most homeowners know how a fan works, but controlling how fast a fan spins isn’t always obvious. For example, you might need to reset a ceiling fan’s remote to gain complete control over the variable speed. How long a fan lasts depends on how you use and maintain it, but your fan should generally last for years. So, learning how to adjust your fan speed for optimal cooling makes sense.

Insider Tip

Change your fan switch to clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation to account for weather changes. You need clockwise fan rotation in the summer and counter-clockwise rotation in the colder months.

Wall Control

Some fan models use a wall switch for toggle fan speed control. This type of fan features simple on/off fan-speed control and doesn’t allow for variable adjustment. Additionally, some fans feature a dimmer light switch that offers a wide range of speed levels. Most experts do not recommend a sliding wall control for ceiling fans.

Pull-Chain Control

Pull-chain fan models are the most common type of fan control. These models feature one chain for light control and a longer chain for fan speed. Pull-chain fans usually offer four levels of fan speed: high, medium, low, and off.

Remote Control

Remote-controlled models aren’t standard, but they offer simple and convenient controls for your ceiling fan. Users can install DIY remote control kits on some fans, and most utilize a generic universal remote.

Warning

If you’re unsure where the neutral wire is in the fan housing, consult a professional or watch an installation video for your unit. Electrical work is hazardous for inexperienced DIY homeowners.

Smart Ceiling Fan Control

Modern ceiling fans offer smart-home connectivity through devices like Google Assistant and Apple Home. With a device like Google Home, users can activate their ceiling fan and adjust the speed with voice controls. Lastly, some smart ceiling fans offer an integrated app for direct speed adjustment.

STAT: A 2020 EIA (Energy Information Agency) survey showed that 29% of Americans in a mixed-humid climate use a ceiling fan. (source)

How to Control Ceiling Fan Speed FAQs

Is there a universal remote for a ceiling fan?

There are universal remotes for ceiling fans, but most models do not feature remote control by default. You can install remote control DIY kits on most fans, but they typically only offer toggle controls or on/off. Once you install the DIY receiver kit, there are multiple universal remote options for fans.

How do I increase my ceiling fan speed?

Assuming there aren't any mechanical or electrical failures in the fan, performing essential maintenance can help your fan blades spin at an optimal rate. Ensure that the blades are dust-free, and lubricate the fan bearings to mitigate any friction in the system. Lastly, rebalance your fan blades and check for damage.

Why is my ceiling fan too fast?

Unbalanced fan blades can cause your blades to spin erratically or too fast. Additionally, your fan cannot regulate the blade speed with a damaged or failing speed controller.