Ceiling fan/lighting pull chain broke off...

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thealfa

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Is it possible to replace just the pull chain of a ceiling fan/lighting? The fan turns on but the lights doesn't because the pull chain broke off.

If it's possible to install a new pull chain, what tools do I use to open the casing of where the pull chain is located in? Would the tool be a precision screw driver/hex tool, or a rotary tool kit?
 

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Some of this switches have the chain closely molded into the switch body, so you may need the replace the switch itself.
 
Similar too, however that particular model may be a bit bulky to fit the space.

Another alternative would be a remote, either switch mounted or handheld.
 
Hi Tehalfa,
Wow! You've got a lot of projects going on. Projects are good. We get to learn new stuff.

A Mom-And-Pop hardware store might be a good place to check for a new switch. The one near me has a couple of drawers of pull-chain switches in many sizes and amp ratings. I think one of those stores would give you more choices than a a home center or chain hardware store.

Lamp repair stores also have a good selection of various switches.

Turn the power off, remove the switch by removing the knurled nut on the outside of the housing. Take the switch to the store. Also, on some pull-chain switches the chain is replaceable. You'll know when you remove the switch.

Paul
 

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In case a repair doesn't work, I'll be replacing the ceiling fan/light. I've never done it before, so does it require electrical work or it's as easy as uninstalling the old one and install a new one in (plug and play)? The brand is Hunter and this model is no longer available. I've contacted the company to see if they have replacement parts for it and they said no.

Would also like to learn how to put on a new ceiling light at the dining room. That one in the pic is too heavy.
 

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I've seen replacement pull switches at Home Depot. Fairly easy to replace, if you understand wiring.
 
In case a repair doesn't work, I'll be replacing the ceiling fan/light. I've never done it before, so does it require electrical work or it's as easy as uninstalling the old one and install a new one in (plug and play)? The brand is Hunter and this model is no longer available. I've contacted the company to see if they have replacement parts for it and they said no.

Would also like to learn how to put on a new ceiling light at the dining room. That one in the pic is too heavy.
Replacing the switch is quicker and easier than replacing the entire fan.

But, if you want to change fans, it isn't difficult, especially with the one in your photo. There is no lamp, just the motor. Therefore there will be 3 wires in the junction box. The instructions will show what goes where. (Generally black-to-black, white-to-white and bare or green-to-bare or green.)

One Caution!
Fans are heavy. People used to put them in standard junction boxes- even sometimes plastic. The moving fan would eventually loosen the fasteners that hold the box to the joists. Sometimes the box and fan would fall. Sometimes plastic boxes' fasteners would strip.

Now required by code are special boxes made for ceiling fans. Retrofit boxes are available to minimize plaster damage during installation.

Ideally you will be certain that the box you have is rated for a fan. If changing boxes is an insurmountable challenge, be sure to buy a light weight fan.

For the dining room light, it'll be a simple wire-for-wire change.
 
Since you’ve already removed the light fixture, you’re halfway there. You’ll just need a Phillips screwdriver or flathead to open the casing. If the switch is held by a nut, pliers will help.
Make sure the power is off, then disconnect the old switch and swap in a new one an universal pull chain switch from a hardware store should work. Reassemble everything, turn the power back on, and test it. If the switch is part of a circuit board, it might be trickier, but still doable.
 

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