Bathroom exhaust fan delay in starting
#1
02-18-19, 07:09 AM
Join Date: Feb 2019
Location: United States
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Bathroom exhaust fan delay in starting
Installed the fan last year. Noticed lately that after I flip the switch, it might take 4 seconds for the thing to start up. Delay seems longer than it used to. Problem?
#2
02-18-19, 08:22 AM
Group Moderator
Yep, sounds like a problem.
Is there a light on the same circuit? Does the light turn on instantly or is it also delayed? Does wiggling the switch make the fan or light turn on instantly? If so then I'd replace the switch.
If you flip the switch do you hear the fan motor humming? Does flicking the fan blade get it started? If so they oiling the bearings might help otherwise you might need a new motor
Is there a light on the same circuit? Does the light turn on instantly or is it also delayed? Does wiggling the switch make the fan or light turn on instantly? If so then I'd replace the switch.
If you flip the switch do you hear the fan motor humming? Does flicking the fan blade get it started? If so they oiling the bearings might help otherwise you might need a new motor
#3
02-18-19, 08:25 AM
maintenance time
Time to take the fan out of the ceiling and use a drop of your favorite lube. This can be indication that the motor is getting to the end of life. If the problem persists after a cleaning and a drop of lube, time to get a new fan motor,
#5
02-18-19, 09:01 AM
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I bought the thing new from Lowes last year. It isn't used that much. I don't hear any hum beforehand like the impeller needs oil.
#7
02-18-19, 12:51 PM
Super Moderator
Another consideration it that if you are in a cold climate, and especially if the damper is stuck open, cold temps could be making the motor stiff.
Also, make sure that if you oil the motor use only oil specifically labelled for motors.
Some use-for-everything oils could contain additives that will gum up the bearings.
Also, make sure that if you oil the motor use only oil specifically labelled for motors.
Some use-for-everything oils could contain additives that will gum up the bearings.
#8
02-19-19, 05:03 PM
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You had the right idea. The problem was the switch. I noticed today a slight electric static noise for a few seconds after flipping it on. Replaced the switch and works fine! Thanks for all the input from you guys.
