Ceiling Fan and Light Start Delay Problem

Your Ceiling Fan and Light May Have a Delayed Start, possibly a full second before the power comes on

Ceiling Fan Delayed Start and Possible Cause
Electrical Question: An electrician just installed a ceiling fan in my son’s room yesterday.

• The ceiling fan has a light fixture with bulbs.
• A wall switch provides the power to the ceiling.
• We had just a regular light fixture before.
• The light would come on immediately when the wall switch was flipped up.
• Now with the ceiling fan and lights, it takes like a full second before the power comes on.
  • My question is:
    • Is this okay to leave it this way?
    • Does it pose any safety threat?

Background: Tom, a Homeowner from NY

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Tom.

Ceiling Fan and Light Delayed Start

• Tom, I would check the owners manual and call the electrician and explain the situation.
• You have not stated what kind of wall switch is being used for the new ceiling fan which could be a factor if it is the wrong switch, such as a light dimmer switch being used for both functions of the ceiling fan will not work right because a dimmer switch is not designed for inductive motor loads.
• I am curious if the electrician installed an Approved Ceiling Fan Box in place of the existing light fixture box?
• It does not hurt to ask questions to the electricians that are hired, and for goodness sake, make sure they really are qualified electricians and ask for credentials.
• If you have hired them to do a job they should be qualified and must do the job according to code.

I have provided the following links that lead to fully detailed information on this website that will assist you with your Ceiling Fan and Light

How to Install Ceiling Fans and Wiring
Step-by-step pictures – Easy wiring diagrams and installation guide – Light and fan switch variations.
Ceiling Fan Wiring
Ceiling Fan Wiring Diagram
Ceiling Fan Installation

Ceiling Fans

How to Install Ceiling Fans
Take the mystery out of ceiling fan wiring. Ceiling Fans are a great way to lower your energy bill and brighten up one of your favorite rooms.

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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs Please Note: Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects: Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor. Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter. Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution: Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring. Important: Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.

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