A ceiling fan can stop rotating for many reasons, ranging from simple power interruptions to internal component failure. The most common cause is loss of electrical power, including a tripped circuit breaker, a failed wall switch, a tripped GFCI outlet upstream, or loose wire nuts inside the ceiling canopy that have vibrated loose. The second most common cause is a failed capacitor, which is the component that provides the starting torque for the motor. When the capacitor fails, you will often hear a faint hum from the motor but the blades will not spin, though they may spin if you give them a push by hand. Other causes include a burned-out motor due to overheating, often caused by running the fan for years with a wobble or with failed bearings. A seized bearing can prevent rotation, especially if dust and lack of lubrication have caused friction. For remote-controlled fans, a failed remote receiver module inside the canopy can cut power to the motor while still allowing the light to work, or vice versa. The pull chain switch can also break internally, preventing speed changes or starting. Finally, some modern fans have an internal thermal fuse or current limiter that trips if the motor overheats or if incorrect bulbs are used in the light kit.
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