Ceiling Fan Controls

Many wired ceiling fan controls have no receivers. The most well-known are Dual and Single Slide Controls or a Rotary Knob Control. A single slide control will only regulate the fan speed and requires a two-wire setup (one hot and one neutral). A switch is a switch that is on and off. A dual slide control will regulate the fan’s light and speed and requires a three-wire setup (two hots, and one negative). The fan knob controls are typically two-wired unless they have a toggle light control or light slide control. Some knob controls come with high amperage and can control up to 8 fans(fan speeds only, no light).

Most of the wall control systems get wired. The two-wire setup is needed to communicate with the Receiver via Dip Switches. Dip Switches are tiny switches that are placed on the surface control, and on the Receiver (A learn-receiver, must be programmed to talk with each other). The dip switches on the wall control, and the receiver must match each other for the fan to work. Wireless wall controls work the same way, but require a tiny battery to operate. These batteries are small, uncommon, and found in hardware stores.

Ceiling Fan Controls Receivers

Several controls that speak to receivers have dip switches. However, some receivers are learn-receivers and require a command from the wall controller. Every receiver has a different set of commands that are necessary for it to listen. Look through the FAQ of each remote manufacturer.

Remote control with receiver

Many remote controls that have receivers speak via dip switches. Dip switches are tiny on and off switches inside the remote controller and the receiver. The switches on the Receiver and the Remote Control must match each other for the fan to work. The switches must match the remote control. Most remotes require a small battery to operate – usually a volt A or B battery. Currently found in local stores.

Controls with CFL

The most common controls have a dimming function. While most light fixtures are transitioning to LED or come with CFL (Compact Fluorescent Bulbs), this doesn’t have the dimming function capability. In conjunction with the controls, they may not work correctly or have a slight hum noise. Be cautious about extending the life of the receiver/computer board.

Ceiling Fan Controls FAQ

Can I control multiple fans with a remote?

It is possible to control multiple fans from a remote control, but it is not recommended. The frequencies can get blocked off, and the fans should be un-synced. Ex: two fans are at high speed, and you’re not close enough to both of them to change. One control unit per fan is recommended.

Can I control multiple fans with a wall control?

There are many types of ceiling fans that can be controlled by a single controller. There are no controls that will control multiple ceiling fans with lights.

Is your Remote Control not working correctly?

Inspect your batteries to see if they need replacement. Check if the LED light is on the transmitter. Examine the dip switches in both the receiver and remote to make sure both are in the identical position. If the toggles are in the right place and the remote is not working, another reason could be the receiver in the fan. Tap on the wall switch and turn it on and off, then try again.

Does your remote control turn off on its own?

Remote controls command the fan and lights. A remote that turns on and off on its own may be picking up other frequencies. Receivers pick up anything up to 40ft. If you have many fans in your home, you will have to adjust the remotes to different frequencies.

Discontinued ceiling fan controls?

Most fans have old control systems that have been discontinued (parts, receivers, controls, etc.). The control system needs to get updated to a more current system. If the fan has no removable receiver and the receiver is attached to the fan, it likely needs to be updated as well.

Can I reverse ceiling fan controls with a remote?

Universal Control Systems don’t include the reverse function. The fan has a reverse switch on the motor housing; that is the only way to reverse the fan. If you have a fan that has a reverse switch on the motor housing, then you can reverse it. The fan cannot be reversed via the wall or remote control unless stated on the control.

Always seek help from a professional electrician before attempting any work yourself. Contact Mike Fuller Electric in Ottawa today for your ceiling fan controls inquires.

Tel: (613) 225-3249

Email: [email protected]