Vintage fan Speed control

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. Read 868 times.

Bob2

  • Full Member
  • Posts: 1836
  • De gustibus non est disputandum
Vintage fan Speed control
« on: 15 Apr 2017, 01:31 pm »
I recently picked up a vintage desk fan for some air circulation in my audio room. It looks great and works well but I would like to control how fast it runs. It is a 110v single speed.
The motor has been gone through and new cord with switch installed. I spoke with the folks I purchased this from but they had no recommendations.
Any suggestions for a simple control? Remote control would be extra nice.. I have done some looking around but thought someone here might have some experience. Thanks.





Peter J

  • Full Member
  • Posts: 1876
  • Hmmmm
Re: Vintage fan Speed control
« Reply #1 on: 15 Apr 2017, 02:49 pm »
Multi-speed fans have capacitors in line to reduce voltage and subsequently speed. You could probably adapt one from a ceiling fan.

To accomplish variable speed, one could rig up a light dimmer switch in line with outlet or even after, but would require some futzing. Any chance they are switched receptacles nearby?

If you want plug and play, you could get a dimmer module from Insteon. For even more fun, get an Insteon Hub and you can control over your home network...any computer,tablet or phone.

http://www.insteon.com/plug-in-devices/

http://www.insteon.com/insteon-hub/

Here's another possibility. Would get you plug and play, but no remote.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/371642277260?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true

Bob2

  • Full Member
  • Posts: 1836
  • De gustibus non est disputandum
Re: Vintage fan Speed control
« Reply #2 on: 15 Apr 2017, 06:37 pm »
Peter J thanks for the info. Looks like I can control it with my Harmony remote.
Very nice! Problem solved.
Thank you!