Ceiling fan speed control switch issue?

[Crazy Legs]

Long story as short as possible, I have 2 commercial ceiling fans that were wired on a 3 speed 110V wall switch (rotary knob) and it worked great for 8 years and gave up. So I just bought a Lutron switch that looks like a regular on/off switch but has a little slide next to it that adjusts the speed low/med/high.
My issue is it doesn't shut off the fans, its just low medium or high no matter if the switch is on/off or up/down.....

I checked the wiring a 100 times and it looks right. Its wired as a single switch, no 3-way or anything like that.

Any suggestions?

 

[tfi racing]

It may have a low speed trim adjustment,usually a small inset screw that is visible with the plate off.

 

[nehog]

What 'model' of part number is that new switch? How was the original switch wired? Pictures of the thing before wiring and after would be great, but if you don't have a before picture, at least show the box with all the wires. Also a model for the fan would be helpful too.

 

[Crazy Legs]

I'll check on the low speed trim adjustability

I'm not sure on the model number, I of course never thought there would be an issue so I pitched the packaging, original switch was single pole as well. All white wires together, copper bare wires together and switch was between both black wires (1 black was the feed to the switch, 1 to the fans)

I did notice on the lowest speed setting it barely turns the fans. its a 1.5amp switch and it was $21 I remember that lol.

The switch has 1 bare copper wire, 2 red wires, (1 solid red that used when single pole, & 1 red/white capped off when single pole or when used in 3 way its connected to other black wire that I don't have) & of course the last wire goes to the white wires.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Is the new switch rated for two fans? Many of those fan controls will barely handle one standard home fan. Put two larger fans on it, and it may be too much.

I realize this is very likely not related to your problem, but may fast become an issue.

You would be much better off with a heavy duty speed control.

5 amp speed control

Charles

 

[Crazy Legs]

Charles, actually you are 100% right on, I was reading about this switch, it is only rated for 1 fan and max of 1.5amps and i'm running 2 and i'm not sure the draw on them but they seem to be alot.
I was also playing with the switch and if you hold down on the switch and wiggle it, it will shut off the fans but as soon as I let go the fans turn back on so obviously the switch is being weird...... The CANARM switch you have pictured is awesome! thats what i'm looking for, any good place to order this switch from?

 

[soapii]

The CANARM switch you have pictured is awesome! thats what i'm looking for, any good place to order this switch from?

Northern Tool has several controllers that will work for you.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/category_display-category+fans+fan-accessories

--Joe