Regardless of the situation that happened to you: possibly a tenant didn’t leave the remote when they left the property, one of your children was playing with the remote and it can no longer be found, or some other situation, you may be able to get it replaced without changing out the fan. Here’s how:
Replacement Ceiling Fan Remotes and Control Units
With most ceiling fans, there is a control unit, also called a receiver, that is in the metal canopy right where the ceiling fan downrod connects to the ceiling. This control unit takes the incoming power, and guides that power to either the light or the fan depending on what buttons are pushed on the remote control.
While both the remote control and the receiver may not be compatible across brands, often the control units have no issues with compatibility with fan lights or motors. As such, a universal control unit often will allow for replacement of the remote. It’s a matter of getting a universal control unit, when swapping out the current control unit with the new one.
After that replacement, often the fan will operate perfectly fine, and you’ll have a new remote control ready to go!
When to Replace the Ceiling Fan Rather than Get a New Remote
In some cases, the control unit that connects with the receiver may be integrated into the fan itself, rather than included in the fan canopy. In these cases, a replacement control unit may not be available, and replacement is the best option.
Also, if you are no longer happy with the aesthetics of your current fan, this may be a great time to put in a new one, rather than investing additional time and effort fixing the old one.
Why Hire a Handyman
Swapping out a control unit involves disconnecting and then reconnecting electrical wires. If this isn’t done properly the fan may not operate correctly, or worse, an electrical fire could be started.
Hire a professional to get it done. We’ve connected lots of ceiling fans, and would love to help you with yours.