How to Clean a Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans use rotating blades to circulate and cool air in a room, but these fans often collect dust and other debris that can reduce their lifespan.
Maintain the performance of your ceiling fan by cleaning it regularly. Depending on the dust in your home or workspace, weekly or bi-weekly cleanings are ideal.
Dusting
Dusting is an effective way to keep your home tidy. It may not be glamorous, but dusting is necessary and helps prevent health issues like allergies and asthma.
Gently wipe each fan blade individually with a duster and all-purpose cleaner, beginning at the canopy at the top of the mounting and moving down through its download and motor housing. You may use a pillowcase to protect your hands as you wipe down each blade for extra safety.
Once you’ve cleaned each blade, dampen a cloth or sponge with an all-purpose cleaner and use it to wipe down the center of the fan. Doing this helps avoid dust accumulation that could reduce its lifespan.
Washing
If your fan looks particularly dirty, you can deep clean it using a DIY cleaning solution. Place the fan blades and wire housing into a large sink or bathtub, then mix two teaspoons of dish soap with a grease cutter in three cups of cool water.
Use a microfiber cloth to clean each component and rinse it thoroughly under cool water. Allow everything to air-dry entirely before assembling again.
Ceiling fans should be cleaned at least once a month (though you can do this more often if you stay on top of your dusting). Also, wipe down light globes if attached to the fan blades and remove any dim light bulbs to reduce strain on the motor.
For a deeper clean, use a pillowcase to lip over each blade and slide it over the fan’s edges. Afterward, wipe each blade from the top, bottom, and sides with a soft cloth, eliminating all dust trapped inside.
Disassembly
Fans are an excellent way to circulate air when feeling hot or stuffy. Unfortunately, they also get dirty quickly, and cleaning them is often tedious.
Thankfully, there are a few ways you can clean a fan without disassembling it. This saves time and allows you to keep using the fan while it is being cleaned.
Before cleaning the fan, unplug it and take it away to an area not exposed to dust. Doing this will help prevent dirt from spreading around the room.
You can also use a shop vac to remove dirt and grime from the fan grilles and blades. After, wipe them down with a rag and let them air dry before using your fan again.
Before beginning to disassemble a fan, be sure to consult its user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions. Some fans are designed with warranties in mind, and opening them could void them; thus, do not risk voiding your warranty by opening one.
Reassembling
Once the fan blades and grill have been cleaned, it’s time to reassemble the unit. If you’re doing it yourself, follow the manufacturer’s instructions not to break anything or damage your fan.
Begin by removing the last part and reattaching it to the motor base in the same order you took it apart. Doing this will prevent any small pieces from being left behind.
After reassembling the fan, vacuum all its components to remove dust and debris. If your vacuum has a brush attachment, remove any stuck-on particles.
If your fan does not come with a brush attachment, try spraying it with a mild soapy water solution and rinsing away all residue. This will allow you to finish the job without taking apart the fan.
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