How To Remove A Broan Bathroom Ceiling Fan Light

How to Remove a Broan Bathroom Ceiling Fan Light

Replacing or repairing a Broan bathroom ceiling fan light fixture requires removing it from the ceiling. This process can seem daunting, but it’s fairly straightforward with the right tools and careful attention to the wiring. This article outlines the steps for safely removing a Broan bathroom ceiling fan light.

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before starting, gather the necessary tools and materials to avoid interruptions. You’ll need:

A ladder that reaches the fan safely
A pair of insulated pliers or a wire stripper
A voltage tester
A Phillips head screwdriver
A flathead screwdriver (optional, for removing stubborn screws)
A pencil or marker (for marking wiring connections)
A small wire nut or electrical tape (for securing wires)
A drop cloth or towel to protect the floor

2. Safety First: Disconnecting Power

Safety is paramount when working with electrical equipment. Before touching any wires, ensure the power is completely disconnected. Follow these steps:

Locate the circuit breaker controlling the bathroom fan light. The breaker panel is usually located in the basement, garage, or utility room.
Turn off the corresponding breaker and switch it to the "Off" position. Some breakers may have a "Test" position; avoid this setting.
Verify the power is off by using a voltage tester on the fan light wires. If the tester lights up, the power is still flowing, and you need to find the correct breaker.

3. Remove the Light Fixture

Now, you can safely access the fan light fixture:

Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws holding the fixture to the ceiling. These screws are typically located on the underside of the fixture.
Carefully detach the fixture from the ceiling, noting any mounting brackets or clips.
If the fixture has a glass globe or shade, gently remove it by unscrewing it or carefully lifting it off.
Set the fixture aside on a clean surface, ensuring you don’t damage any internal parts.

4. Disconnect Wiring

This step requires attention to detail and clear labeling:

Use a pencil or marker to label each wire connected to the fixture for easy reconnection later. Common wire colors are:
- Black: Hot wire
- White: Neutral wire
- Green or bare copper: Ground wire
Carefully disconnect the wires connecting the fixture to the ceiling wiring by loosening the wire nuts.
If the wires are tightly secured, gently wiggle them back and forth while loosening the wire nut to avoid damaging the wires.
After disconnecting the wires, use a small wire nut or electrical tape to secure the loose ends to prevent accidental contact.

5. Remove the Fan Motor Housing (If Applicable)

Broan bathroom ceiling fans often have a motor housing that needs to be removed separately. To do this:

Locate the screws holding the motor housing to the ceiling. These screws are usually found on the underside of the housing.
Remove the screws, then carefully detach the motor housing from the ceiling.
Disconnect any wiring connecting the motor to the housing using the same labeling and disconnection methods described earlier.

6. Remove the Fan Blades (If Applicable)

If the fan blades are connected directly to the motor, detach them before removing the motor housing:

Locate the screws holding the fan blades to the motor shaft.
Remove the screws and carefully detach the blades, placing them safely aside.

7. Removing the Fan Light Cover

If your Broan bathroom ceiling fan light has a separate cover, remove it before removing the entire fixture:

Locate the screws or clips holding the cover in place.
Remove the screws or gently pry open the clips to detach the cover.

By following these steps, you can safely remove your Broan bathroom ceiling fan light. Remember to be cautious when working with electrical wires and prioritize safety throughout the entire process.