I am removing a ceiling light and replacing it with a ceiling fan and light. The ceiling light was on a wall switch. Is there a way to install the fan and light in the old switch box to work separately.
Desy2820
04-04-05, 02:07 PM
You have some options.
1) Purchase a remote control system for your fan. Some fans have them built-in. I was recently in a big box store who's name starts with "L" and found these Hunter fan controls that I'll probably use: http://www.hunterfan.com/sort.php?pType=acc&type=10 The one I like is number 27186 or 27189. These controls are made for two-wire switch installs and will control both the fan and light seperately.
2) Change some wiring around. You do need to know if you have a switch loop ( one cable in switch box, black and white wire connected to switch) or if power comes in at the switch box (two cables in switch box, two black wires connected to switch).
For a switch loop, you can have constant power to the fan-use the pull chain for diffferent speeds. Use the existing switch loop for the light, turn switch on for light.
For power at switch box- more work, more options. You can run a new 14/3 cable between the switch box and the cieling box. You may need to replace the switch box with a two-gang box or a use a duplex switch in the present box. This will give you 2 switches, one for the fan and one for the light.
**In both cases you may need to replace your cieling box with a "fan support" type cieling box- to suport the extra wieght of the fan. They have a new type designed for remodeling that will install from the present boxes' opening. If your present box is well mounted or was installed to sturdy blocking between the joists, then you will be good-to-go and not need a new box.
Hope this helped!