Is Your Fan Not Working Due to a Faulty Capacitor?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on diagnosing a non-functional fan, specifically addressing the potential failure of the capacitor in single-phase induction motors. Participants confirm that if the capacitor is faulty, the motor will not start, as these motors require a functioning capacitor for initial torque. Additionally, issues such as worn bearings or internal shorts in the windings may contribute to the fan's failure. The consensus is that replacing the fan is advisable if it exhibits humming without operation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of single-phase induction motors
  • Knowledge of capacitor functions in electric motors
  • Familiarity with fan motor components, including bearings and windings
  • Basic troubleshooting techniques for electrical appliances
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  • Research the role of capacitors in single-phase induction motors
  • Learn about diagnosing bearing issues in electric fans
  • Explore methods for safely replacing fan motors
  • Investigate common electrical faults in household appliances
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Homeowners, appliance repair technicians, and electrical engineers seeking to troubleshoot and repair non-functional fans or similar electrical devices.

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my fan has stopped working recently, when i turn it on it makes hamming voice, but it doen't work, what might be the problem?
 
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muh_j18 said:
my fan has stopped working recently, when i turn it on it makes hamming voice, but it doen't work, what might be the problem?

Don't leave it on and humming like that. It is stuck, and could overheat. It may be stuck because of worn out bearings, or because there are internal shorts in the windings that are reducing the overall torque, or both.

Time to replace the fan, I'm afraid.
 
could the problem be the capacitor?
single phase induction motors are not self starting, so if the capacitor is not working, the motor won't start running, am i wrong?
 
muh_j18 said:
could the problem be the capacitor?
single phase induction motors are not self starting, so if the capacitor is not working, the motor won't start running, am i wrong?

Interesting. Does the fan run if you start it by spinning it by hand? Do the fan blades seem to spin smoothly (no bearing problems)?
 

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