Answers to Electrical Questions About Ceiling Fan Troubleshooting, GFCI Requirements, Receptacle Requirements and Troubleshooting Receptacles
May 24, 2008
Tamara asks:
My ceiling fan recently reversed is direction by itself and then started to spark when I turn it on by the switch on the wall. We replaced the fan. After, about 30 minutes of running the new fan started giving off a smell similiar to a hot glue gun. Could something be wrong with our electrical wiring? If so, how can we determine that it is the wiring and not the fan?
Answer:
There are several possibilities that could cause this. If you can, visually inspect the cable and wires for any defects, loose connections or anything else that looks irregular. Check for loose connections at the switch and ceiling fan. Check voltage at the ceiling fan. You should have approximately 120 volts between the hot and neutral as well as the hot and ground. However, you should have 0 volts between the neutral and ground wires.
There could be problems with the circuit breaker as well. Here you should check for voltage and amperage. When checking for amperage, check with just the fan on, then with the fan and light on (if your ceiling fan has a light kit), finally with everything on that is connected to this circuit.
Troubleshooting most electrical problems is a task for advanced DIYers. If you are uncomfortable / unsure with any of the steps above, I recommend calling a licensed or qualified electrician to look at this problem.
bbuc asks:
Can I also see a wiring diagram for this as I wish to do the same. Also, why is a GFCI required if it’s going be inside the shed and probably not near a water source?
Answer:
I would be happy to create a custom wiring diagram for you. I provide this service here: http://www.ezdiyelectricity.com/custom_wiring_diagrams
The requirement for GFCI receptacles in garages and sheds improves safety for persons using portable hand-held tools, gardening appliances, lawn mowers, string trimmers, snow blowers, and so on, that might be connected to these receptacles, which are often the closest ones available.
Shane Benham asks:
What if the railing is dividing or protecting a stairway? Would this still qualify as wall space?
Answer:
Yes. However, I recommend asking your local electrical inspector this question. They are the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) and can best answer this question for you.
Everett Clausen asks:
While drilling metal the other day, the drill bound up and obviously blew something as the line was dead. I checked the circuit breaker and it was not tripped to OFF . In any event I toggled it several times but it did not restore power to the outlet. I removed the outlet cover and checked the connections with a circuit tester and no power to the outlet.
I wonder if you have any ideas on the cause or solution to this
Thanks Everett
Answer:
Check to see if you can find a GFCI receptacle tripped anywhere. You should also check for voltage at the circuit breaker.
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