Fan / Light Combination Switch Wiring

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For those that live where the new 2011 NEC code is in effect, please read '2011 NEC New Rule 'Switch Connections' If this applies to you, the switch wiring options that is in compliance with this new rule will be indicated bellow as '2011 NEC compliant'

For fan / light combination fixtures, this section has wiring scenarios that will use different switches to control the light and fan. The fan in each of the options is controlled by one basic switch at one location, the lights of the combination fixture is controlled by either a single basic switch or two 3 way switches. A set of 3 way switches may be desired for instances where the light / fan combination fixture is installed on the ceiling of a staircase or in a long hallway / large room. Any speed or direction controls for the fan would be controlled usually by a pull spring on the combination fixture unless you install a specialized speed control device which would take the place of the standard basic switch depicted in the articles (see the warning message bellow)

WARNING (please read)....

Do not use a regular light dimmer on the fan, fans require a extra jolt to get the blade moving, there are special fan controllers that can be used to control fan speed at the switch location (replacing the regular switch with the special fan speed controller) these are specially made to control speed and insure the fan does get moving when on, the danger in regular dimmers not meant to control a fan is that the fan could get some power applied to it but not enough to get it moving what that can do is heat it up and become a fire hazard. If using a special fan controller ensure that the fans pull string (if they have it) are set to max speed and let the fan controller control the speed. You may still have another pull string on the fan that can change blade direction.

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