Water in Your Fan? Here’s What to Do

  • Post category:Home Safety

As an electrical maintenance engineer, I’ve seen my fair share of damaged electrical equipment.

One common problem that can cause serious damage to electric fans is water exposure. Whether it’s due to a spilled drink, a leaky roof, or high humidity, water can wreak havoc on your electric fan’s electrical components.

If water gets in your electric fan, the first thing you should do is unplug it immediately. Do not try to turn it on or use it until it has been thoroughly dried out and inspected for damage.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what happens when water gets in an electric fan, how to fix it, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.

What Happens When Water Gets In An Electric Fan?

When water gets in an electric fan, three main things can happen: short circuits, corrosion, and electrical shocks.

Short-Circuits

A short circuit occurs when electrical current flows through an unintended path. In an electric fan, this can happen when water causes the electrical contacts to become wet, which can create a low-resistance path for the current to flow through.

This can cause the current to bypass important components, such as the motor or switch, and flow directly to the ground.

The result is often a blown fuse, damaged components, or even a fire.

Corrosion

Corrosion is another potential problem that can occur when water gets in an electric fan.

Water can cause the metal components in the fan to rust or corrode, which can weaken the structure of the fan and lead to long-term damage.

Corrosion can also cause the electrical contacts to deteriorate, which can result in poor performance or complete failure of the fan.

Read also my article What Effect Do Corroded Connections Have on a Circuit?

Electrical Shocks

One of the most dangerous risks of water exposure in an electric fan is the potential for electrical shocks.

When water gets in contact with electrical components, it can create a conductive path for the current to flow through.

If someone touches the fan while it’s plugged in and the current flows through their body, they can experience an electrical shock, which can be fatal.

Can You Fix An Electric Fan That’s Been Damaged By Water?

If water gets in your electric fan, the first thing you should do is unplug it immediately. Do not try to turn it on or use it until it has been thoroughly dried out and inspected for damage.

Here are the steps you can take to fix your electric fan after water damage:

  1. Unplug The Fan

As mentioned above, the first step is to unplug the fan from the power source. This will help prevent any further damage and reduce the risk of electrical shock.

  1. Dry Out The Fan

The next step is to dry out the fan completely. This can be done by wiping down the fan with a dry cloth, using a hairdryer on the cool setting, or leaving the fan to air dry for a few days.

Make sure that all the electrical components are completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

  1. Clean The Fan

Once the fan is dry, you should clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated.

You can use a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove any dust or debris. Be careful not to damage any components while cleaning.

Read also my comprehensive article Don’t Risk Your Safety: Avoid Using Burnt Extension Cords

How To Troubleshoot An Electric Fan After Water Damage

After your fan has been dried out and cleaned, it’s time to check for any signs of damage or wear. Here are the steps you can take to troubleshoot your fan after water damage:

  1. Identify Which Components Are Damaged

Inspect the fan thoroughly to identify which components are damaged. Look for signs of rust, corrosion, or discoloration on the metal components.

Check the electrical contacts to see if they are corroded or damaged. If you’re not sure which components are damaged, it’s best to take the fan to a professional electrician or technician for inspection.

  1. Replace Damaged Components

If you’ve identified which components are damaged, you’ll need to replace them. This may involve ordering replacement parts from the manufacturer or purchasing them from a local hardware store.

Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when replacing components to ensure proper installation and avoid further damage.

  1. Test The Fan

Once you’ve replaced any damaged components, it’s time to test the fan to make sure it’s working properly. Plug the fan back in and turn it on, and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.

If the fan seems to be working correctly, you can start using it again. If it’s still not working properly, you may need to seek further assistance from an electrician or technician.

How To Prevent Water Damage In An Electric Fan

Preventing water damage in an electric fan is much easier than fixing it after the fact. Here are some steps you can take to prevent water damage in your electric fan:

  • Keep The Fan Away From Water

The simplest way to prevent water damage in an electric fan is to keep it away from water.

Don’t place your fan near a sink, bathtub, or any other source of water. If you need to use your fan in a damp environment, make sure it’s properly protected and positioned away from any water sources.

  • Use A Fan Cover

Another way to protect your electric fan from water damage is to use a fan cover. A fan cover can help prevent water from getting inside the fan, and can also protect it from dust and debris.

  • Keep The Fan Clean And Dry

Keeping your fan clean and dry can also help prevent water damage. Make sure to wipe down your fan regularly with a dry cloth, and avoid using it in humid or damp environments. If your fan does get wet, dry it out completely before using it again.

  • Using GFCI

A GFCI is a type of electrical outlet that is designed to protect against electrical shock. It does this by detecting electrical current imbalances caused by ground faults, and automatically shutting off the power to the circuit. Here’s how to use a GFCI with your electric fan:

  1. Install A GFCI Outlet

The first step to using a GFCI with your electric fan is to install a GFCI outlet. You can either replace your existing outlet with a GFCI outlet or install a GFCI breaker in your electrical panel.

  1. Test The GFCI

After installing the GFCI, test it to make sure it’s working correctly. Plug in a lamp or other small appliance, and press the “test” button on the GFCI outlet. The power should shut off immediately. If it doesn’t, the GFCI may be faulty and should be replaced.

  1. Plug In Your Fan

Once the GFCI is installed and working properly, plug in your electric fan to the GFCI outlet. If water gets into the fan and causes a ground fault, the GFCI will shut off the power to the circuit, preventing electrical shock.

Conclusion

Water damage in an electric fan can cause serious problems, from short circuits to electrical shocks.

If your fan does get wet, it’s important to unplug it immediately and take steps to dry it out and inspect it for damage.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can fix your electric fan after water damage and prevent it from happening again in the future.

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