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Henry McClure  
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An electrical fan may take time to start due to physical issues like worn bearings, old or failing capacitors, and buildup of dust and debris that increase friction. It could also be a design feature of certain motors, like some brushless DC fans, to allow for a slower, more controlled startup. [1, 2, 3, 4]  

Common causes for a slow start 

• Worn or dried-out bearings: Over time, the lubricant in the motor's bearings can deteriorate, causing them to stick and requiring more torque to start moving. 

• Failing start capacitor: The capacitor provides the initial "boost" of torque to get the motor spinning. If it's failing, the fan may take longer to start or only hum without spinning. 

• Dust and debris: Hair, dirt, and other debris can get into the motor vents or bearings, creating friction and hindering the motor's ability to start quickly. 

• Low voltage or poor electrical connections: An inconsistent or weak electrical supply can reduce the power available to the motor, making it struggle to start. 

• Motor design: Some newer fans, particularly those with brushless DC motors, may have a "soft-start" feature that intentionally makes them take a moment to spin up for a more controlled and less jarring start. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]  

What to do 

• For older fans: Try cleaning the fan thoroughly, especially the motor housing, and then adding a few drops of the correct type of lubricating oil to the motor shaft at the bearing points. 

• For a suspected capacitor issue: If the fan hums but won't spin or starts very slowly, the capacitor is the most likely culprit. This is a repair that may require a professional, especially if you are not comfortable working with electrical components, notes JustAnswer (https://www.justanswer.com/electrical/2pmtt-causes-electric-fan-motor-turn-slow-when.html). 

• For newer fans: The slow start may be normal if it's a design feature. If the fan is stuttering or starting very erratically, it could still indicate a component failure that is best handled by a professional. [1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9]  

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] https://www.justanswer.com/electrical/2pmtt-causes-electric-fan-motor-turn-slow-when.html

[2] https://www.quora.com/Why-does-my-fan-now-take-a-while-to-speed-up

[3] https://www.facebook.com/groups/SGHomeDIY/posts/28414240204889867/

[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/electrical/comments/1fj3svf/new_dc_motor_fan_takes_time_to_start_and_then/

[5] https://www.quora.com/When-you-have-a-fan-that-wont-start-why-does-spinning-it-sometimes-cause-it-to-kick-start

[6] https://diy.stackexchange.com/questions/63241/why-does-my-stove-vent-fan-take-time-to-turn-on

[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBGvrJQBzKE

[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRS1TXnuFAo

[9] https://www.reddit.com/r/fixit/comments/1fs3zxk/slow_start_with_shop_fan/

Henry McClure  
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
time kills deals