New fan smell : How long should it take for it to disappear, and is it harmful?
Sidebar question: Is it safe (for the fan) to be run off an electric timer (ie. so that the fan would be automatically turned on and off about 12 times per day)?
I run the fan on the lowest speed setting.
PS: I tried a different model and it had the exact same odor so I don't think there's any particular defect with this one.
Answers:
There's likely lubricant running down on the carbon brushes of the motor or lubricant on the rotor that's getting hot and outgassing. This is normal for most new electronics- the brushes have to set on motors, board components 'burn in', etc. If it's too much of a problem for you, take it back where you bought it and exchange it for another. There could have been a manufacturing anomaly with the one you have.
Most household timers are rated at 15 amps. Depending on the size of your fan, you will not have any problems with this if the fan draws less than the amp rating on the timer.
Other answers:
it is not a straight forward answer . the smell will go with time. it should be ok to use a timer as long as it is reasonable quality. you should run the fan on different speeds some of the time. i am an electrician with nearly 30 years experience.
it is not a straight forward answer . the smell will go with time. it should be ok to use a timer as long as it is reasonable quality. you should run the fan on different speeds some of the time. i am an electrician with nearly 30 years experience.
The smell will go when it goes...not normally a problem for long. No problem with it turning on and off. Make sure the timer can handle the wattage or better of the fan. I would turn it on and let it run for some time...the odor will go away soon enough.