Musings of a Fondue

Motor Repair

The fan in one of our bathrooms failed.

IMG_20181210_221508

IMG_20181213_160344

The culprit was most likely a blown thermal fuse. Opening the motor housing to get access to the fuse was a bit tricky. The housing is held together by folded tabs as seen below. They require a bit of force to open.

IMG_20181213_150657

IMG_20181213_150829

Once opened, I was able to locate the fuse and cut it out.

IMG_20181211_014934

IMG_20181211_173539

IMG_20181211_173651

IMG_20181211_180037

The original fuse acted as both a thermal fuse and a current fuse (it was rated for 115°C 2A 250V). I was not able to source an exact replacement. However, I learned that I could achieve the same effect by using two fuses in series - a 115°C thermal fuse and a 2A current fuse. I was able to source a 117°C thermal fuse and a 2A 250V current fuse.

IMG_20181212_180350

IMG_20181213_122320

The original insulation was no longer long enough to cover the exposed connections. I was unable to source the exact insulation. Instead, I used fiberglass tape (rated for 130°C).

IMG_20181213_122515

IMG_20181213_140115

While I had the fan disassembled, I wiped off the accumulated dust, and lubricated the bearings (using “3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil”).

I am not sure what caused the original fuse to blow. Best case scenario, it was defective and failed prematurely.


This repair was done back in December 2018. I finally got around to creating this write up. The fan continues to work with daily use.

Comments