Ceiling Fan Mounting Bracket Doesn’t Fit: What To Do?

Installing ceiling fans can be an aggravating experience if you are unprepared for the challenges you might face. The most common problem you will encounter when installing ceiling fans is that the mounting bracket does not fit. Read on to learn the reasons for this problem and what steps you can take.

What is a ceiling fan mounting bracket?

A ceiling fan mounting bracket is a device that attaches to the ceiling and supports the weight of a ceiling fan. These brackets are typically installed at the time of building construction or during renovation. Some mounting brackets may need access to an attic for installation. Also, they come in various shapes, sizes, and materials and can be installed on any ceiling.

Given below is a picture of a ceiling fan mounting bracket;

A ceiling fan mounting bracket (See on Amazon)

3 Reasons why the ceiling fan mounting bracket doesn’t fit

The issue of mismatched ceiling fans and mounting brackets arises because there are different styles of ceiling fans available in the market with different mounting needs. You may have a mounting bracket that doesn’t go with the type of ceiling fan you are installing.

Here are some common reasons why your ceiling fan is not fitting into the mounting brackets:

1. Difference in size

As with most mismatches, size is the fundamental reason here. The ceiling fan and mounting bracket won’t fit if the part of the mounting bracket where a ceiling fan attaches itself has a different shape or size required by the ceiling fan.

2. Lack of space

Often, a ceiling fan with a remote control option doesn’t fit into the mounting bracket. Such mounting brackets may not have enough space to allow a remote receiver above the ceiling fan.

3. Unaligned screw holes

With so many styles of ceiling fans, you can face this issue if the screw holes in the ceiling fan junction box do not align with the holes in the mounting bracket. It will not let you screw and attach the pieces securely.

What to do if the ceiling fan mounting bracket doesn’t fit?

Your only solution is to replace the old mounting bracket with a new one that matches your ceiling fan attachment needs. You will want your new mounting bracket to have the required shape and size, enough space for the remote receiver, or screw holes that align with the holes of the ceiling fan.

However, replacing a mounting bracket sometimes doesn’t work either, and you need to change the junction box instead. This situation can arise if a certain mounting bracket that goes well with a ceiling fan can not fit into an existing junction box. That said, it is not a common thing to happen.

How to find a compatible mounting bracket?

Don’t worry if your ceiling fan mounting bracket doesn’t fit. You can try these options to find a compatible mounting bracket for your ceiling fan:

Contact the manufacturer

If you are replacing an old mounting bracket for any reason, you may call the original manufacturer to get a similar bracket. You can ask for alternative options if they don’t make that model anymore.

If this method is unsuccessful, you can try the following options, which are also the best ways to find a compatible mounting bracket for new ceiling fans if they don’t fit old mounting brackets.

Buy from an online retailer

Search the internet for a suitable mounting bracket for your ceiling fan’s specifications. You can find compatible options, compare them, and order one that fulfills your requirements and budget.

Go to the local hardware store

Ask your local hardware store or home improvement center if they have a mounting bracket that fits your ceiling fan. They may even be able to order one for you if they don’t have it in stock.

Get a universal ceiling fan mounting bracket

If you can’t find a desirable mounting bracket to your satisfaction, you still have one option that works in many situations. Buy a universal ceiling fan mounting bracket. These brackets won’t work in all scenarios but can still work in many cases. They offer vast adjustability and compatibility, making them a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a universal ceiling fan mounting bracket?

Universal ceiling fan mounting brackets are designed to fit most ceiling fans. So, they are not entirely universal, as the name suggests. These brackets have several screw holes that allow you to use any spot to put the screw as needed. They accommodate different mounting patterns and can be used for junction boxes and fans of various sizes.

Are all ceiling fan mounting brackets the same?

All ceiling fan mounting brackets are not the same. Different types of mounting brackets are available depending on the kind of ceiling where they are installed. However, most mounting brackets are compatible with many other ceiling fan models, so an already installed mounting bracket can be used to install a new ceiling fan of a different model if their specifications match.

Do you need a mounting bracket for the ceiling fan?

Standard electric boxes cannot hold the total weight of a ceiling fan. Extra support is needed to attach the fan to the ceiling without fearing falling on somebody and damaging your ceiling drywall. A mounting bracket adds additional support to the junction box to hold the ceiling fan securely in its place.

How do you tell if a ceiling mount can support a fan?

National Electric Code (NEC) rated ceiling fan mounting brackets are required for ceiling fans for safety reasons. The brackets have a label that says what weight they can support, typically between 30 and 50 pounds. If you’re unsure if your bracket can support the weight of the fan or not, consult an electrician for help.

Conclusion

A ceiling fan mounting bracket is a vital accessory for a safe and secure installation. If it doesn’t fit with the ceiling fan, it could mean that you have to purchase a new bracket that fits. I hope this blog post has helped you find the situations when a mounting bracket and ceiling fan mismatch and what to do to solve the matter and complete the installation successfully.

Charles John

Experienced HVAC technician with 8 years of experience in the industry. Capable of handling all sorts of heating and cooling equipment as well as proficient in operational management, construction-related techniques such as preventative maintenance, electrical troubleshooting and AutoCAD

Latest Posts