How to Remove a Ceiling Fan

By
Kamron Sanders
Kamron Sanders
Kamron Sanders
Kamron Sanders is a home improvement expert and writer with over 15 years of hands-on construction, remodeling, woodworking, home repair, and landscaping experience. He has also written for HGTV. Kamron's expertise ranges from troubleshooting saws and lawnmowers to painting kitchen cabinets.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Published on 02/13/23
Reviewed by
Larry Campbell
Larry Campbell
Reviewed by Larry Campbell

Larry Campbell is an electrical contractor with 36 years of experience in residential and light commercial electrical wiring. He worked as an electronic technician and later an engineer for the IBM Corp. is a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.

Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board
black ceiling fan

Siraphol Siricharattakul / EyeEm / Getty Images

Project Overview
  • Total Time: 15 - 30 mins
  • Yield: Removed ceiling fan
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Estimated Cost: $0

Ceiling fans don't last forever—neither stylishly nor mechanically. And, when it comes time to replace or simply get rid of your ceiling fan, it's worth taking some time to familiarize yourself with the ceiling fan removal process before you start loosening screws and electrical wires. Follow the steps ahead to safely remove your ceiling fan and ready your ceiling for a new fan or light fixture.

Before You Begin

The process of removing your ceiling fan will differ slightly depending on whether or not you have a flush-mount fan or a downrod fan. As you may have guessed, flush-mount fans sit directly against the ceiling, while downrod fans sit away from the ceiling with a rod making up the gap. Identify which type you have before moving forward.

Safety Considerations

Whenever working around electrical house components such as ceiling fans, lights, or receptacles, always turn the power off beforehand and verify it's off before moving forward. If you're unable to confidently determine which breaker or fuse controls the power, play it safe and turn off the main breaker.

Fans can be heavy. If you're uncertain of your ability to remove the fan while climbing a ladder, consider calling upon a friend for help before tackling this project. Even if you can handle the fan, having someone to support the ladder is always a good idea.

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What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Tall ladder
  • Screwdrivers
  • Voltage tester

Instructions

How to Remove a Flush-Mount Ceiling Fan

Follow the steps ahead to remove a flush-mount ceiling fan or skip ahead to remove a downrod ceiling fan.

  1. Turn Off Power

    Turn off the power to the fan at the circuit breaker. If you're unsure which breaker controls the fan, turn off the main breaker. Test the fan and lights with the switch to ensure the power is off.

    Warning

    Before touching any wires, always double-check them using a voltage tester to ensure power isn't coming from an unexpected source.

  2. Remove the Lights

    If your fan has a light kit, remove any globes or covers, then remove the bulbs.

  3. Remove the Blades

    Use a screwdriver to remove each blade from the fan to make it easier to access the top of the fan.

  4. Remove the Canopy

    Remove the screws holding the canopy to the mounting bracket, then lower the canopy or remove it totally if possible. If you have trouble finding the screws, look for a removable decorative cover that is sometimes present. Once removed, support the fan on top of a ladder, or employ a friend to help hold it.

    Tip

    Though you can like reach your ceiling fan with a step ladders, opt for a tall ladder with a top support to hold the ceiling fan while you detach the wires.

  5. Detach the Wires

    Remove the wire nuts and separate the fan wires from the wires protruding from the electrical box. Replace the wire nuts on the ceiling wires once finished.

  6. Remove the Fan

    If present, detach the safety chain and carefully lower the fan to the ground.

  7. Remove the Mounting Bracket

    Unscrew the fans mounting bracket and remove it, then replace the screws in the electrical box for later use. Note: sometimes the bracket is held in place by nuts threaded onto permanent bolts leaving the electrical box.

How to Remove a Downrod Ceiling Fan

Follow the steps below to remove a downrod ceiling fan.

  1. Follow the Steps Above

    Follow the same steps 1-4 from the flush-mount fan removal process.

  2. Remove the Canopy

    Remove the screws holding the canopy and lower it down the rod to rest on top of the fan.

  3. Detach the Wires

    Remove the wire nuts and separate the fan wires from the wires protruding from the electrical box. Replace the wire nuts on the ceiling wires once finished.

  4. Remove the Fan

    Once all wires are detached, lift the ball out of the mounting bracket and carefully lower the fan to the ground.

  5. Remove the Mounting Bracket

    Unscrew the mounting bracket and remove it, then replace the screws in the electrical box for later use.

When to Call a Professional

Removing a ceiling fan is a project that most DIYers can easily tackle. However, if you're uncertain in your ability to safely deal with the electrical wires and components, call a professional to help remove your ceiling fan before putting yourself and others at risk.

FAQ
  • Can you change a ceiling fan's blades?

    If the blades on your ceiling fan are looking worse for wear or you simply don't like their style, replacement blades are available for many ceiling fans. Additionally, many blades can simply be turned over to reveal a different color option.

  • Do you need an electrician to remove a ceiling fan?

    In most cases, you can remove a ceiling fan safely without the help of an electrician. However, if you find that there are problems with electrical components before or during the process, it's a good idea to consult with an electrician before moving forward.

  • Can you reuse a ceiling fan?

    If the ceiling fan is in working condition when removed, it can be reinstalled and used elsewhere. Consider selling or donating it to someone in need.