Wireless remote control for whole house fan
#1
02-09-22, 03:59 PM
Wireless remote control for whole house fan
Hi all,
I have this whole house fan installed in my house. Currently the only control for it is a 2-speed pull chain. I would like to install a wireless switch so that I don't need to run any wiring or cut the drywall. I'm thinking the easiest way is to leave the pull chain on the high setting and just control the power going to the fan. Can I use a wireless light switch to achieve this? Or do I need some other kind of switch?
I have this whole house fan installed in my house. Currently the only control for it is a 2-speed pull chain. I would like to install a wireless switch so that I don't need to run any wiring or cut the drywall. I'm thinking the easiest way is to leave the pull chain on the high setting and just control the power going to the fan. Can I use a wireless light switch to achieve this? Or do I need some other kind of switch?
Top Answer
02-10-22, 10:19 AM
Group Moderator
A motor load is different than a lighting load.
If it specifically says for motors ... then it can be used.
You need a switch that supplies a solid contact closure for that type of motor.
The main description only states lights. Down in the details it lists fans with the lights. I don't know for sure if it will work with your fan. You'd have to try it.
If it specifically says for motors ... then it can be used.
You need a switch that supplies a solid contact closure for that type of motor.
The main description only states lights. Down in the details it lists fans with the lights. I don't know for sure if it will work with your fan. You'd have to try it.
#2
02-09-22, 05:58 PM
Group Moderator
Welcome to the forums.
The kit you linked to is for a light. You need a motor duty control.
The spec on that 1/4hp motor says 2.3A. I doubt that. That may be on low speed.
A 1/4hp typically draws 5A-6A.
For something like that I'd use a 12v remote control with a relay and power supply.
I have used two button/channel remotes with two relays for dual speed control.
Might be a little involved for that project.
There are several remote kits on ebay. I've linked to two kits on amazon.
120v fan remote
120v fan remote
The kit you linked to is for a light. You need a motor duty control.
The spec on that 1/4hp motor says 2.3A. I doubt that. That may be on low speed.
A 1/4hp typically draws 5A-6A.
For something like that I'd use a 12v remote control with a relay and power supply.
I have used two button/channel remotes with two relays for dual speed control.
Might be a little involved for that project.
There are several remote kits on ebay. I've linked to two kits on amazon.
120v fan remote
120v fan remote
#3
02-10-22, 07:38 AM
Thank you, I will look into those kits.
Sorry for the beginner question, the wireless light switch I linked to says it is rated for 10A, which is under the 5A-6A you said is needed, so I am just wondering what the difference is between this and the motor duty control.
Sorry for the beginner question, the wireless light switch I linked to says it is rated for 10A, which is under the 5A-6A you said is needed, so I am just wondering what the difference is between this and the motor duty control.
#4
02-10-22, 10:13 AM
I don't see any reason the wireless switch you posted wouldn't work. As you mentioned, it's listed for 10A (or 1000w which is only 8A, but still within what you need).
I personally don't love cheap non-brand name, non-UL listed devices... but I wouldn't not use it just because of that.
I'd certainly give it a try!
I personally don't love cheap non-brand name, non-UL listed devices... but I wouldn't not use it just because of that.
I'd certainly give it a try!
#5
02-10-22, 10:19 AM
Group Moderator
A motor load is different than a lighting load.
If it specifically says for motors ... then it can be used.
You need a switch that supplies a solid contact closure for that type of motor.
The main description only states lights. Down in the details it lists fans with the lights. I don't know for sure if it will work with your fan. You'd have to try it.
If it specifically says for motors ... then it can be used.
You need a switch that supplies a solid contact closure for that type of motor.
The main description only states lights. Down in the details it lists fans with the lights. I don't know for sure if it will work with your fan. You'd have to try it.
2john02458,
imaltesers
voted this post useful.
#6
02-10-22, 12:29 PM
I tried looking into it a bit more and did read that a whole house fan probably needs a relay because of the motor but I didn't find anything conclusive. If I end up trying the light switch then I'll share the results for others who might be interested.
#7
02-11-22, 11:57 AM
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Link2Hom...650B/309380398
I would just use one of these or similar, if the fan is 120 v.
I would just use one of these or similar, if the fan is 120 v.
2john02458
voted this post useful.
#8
02-17-22, 07:21 PM
2john02458
voted this post useful.
#9
02-17-22, 07:51 PM
Group Moderator
