How to fix a ceiling fan that is not turning?

To fix a ceiling fan that is not turning, start with the simplest power checks before assuming motor failure. First, verify the wall switch is on and the circuit breaker for that room has not tripped. If the fan has a remote control, check the remote batteries and ensure the remote receiver is not blocked. Try using the pull chain to cycle through speeds, as the remote receiver module inside the canopy is a common failure point. If you hear a humming sound but the blades do not move, the motor may be seized. Turn off power at the breaker, then spin the blades by hand. If they are stiff, the bearings may need lubrication or the motor may be burned out. Check for a tripped thermal fuse or loose wire nuts inside the ceiling canopy, as vibration can loosen connections over time. For fans with a capacitor, a failed capacitor is the most common reason for humming without spinning. It is a small black box inside the housing and can be replaced for a few dollars if you are comfortable with wiring. If the fan still does not turn after checking power, capacitor, and free movement, the motor itself may have failed and replacement of the entire fan may be more economical than motor replacement.