Sticky Exhaust Fans

IrishRover · 06-27-2011, 05:40 AM

My ceiling exhaust fans do not operate properly because the outer "door" or lid seems to stick to the top of the unit and will not open allowing the fan to run and the air to move. Trying to operate the unit manually doesn't seem to open these lids either. Had to crawl up on the roof to loosen them up, but that did not last. Is there a way to keep these from sticking?

Thanks

IrishRover

DancinCampers · 06-27-2011, 06:35 AM

I use 303 Protectant after cleaning with soap and water.

ArmyEOD · 06-27-2011, 06:44 AM

Had same issue, had to clean the extra sealer from where the lid contacted the roof and frame. When it got hot from the sun it would stick everytime. A razor blade did the trick for me.

Tom N · 06-27-2011, 07:55 AM

Fantastic Fans had a gasket sticking problem starting in 2005. If you contact Fantastic Fans they will send you a new and improved gasket for each of your vents at no charge. The new design is ribbed.

I installed the new gaskets back in 2005 and have had no problems since.

Also I suspect rubbing fine dirt or powder on the gasket would remove the stickiness, but I don't go on the roof.

-Tom

IrishRover · 06-27-2011, 09:50 AM

Thank You all for the most helpful suggestions. More work to do before the trip!

IR

AFChap · 06-28-2011, 06:30 AM

You should be able to pop them open manually. I removed the screens inside and smeared 303 on the seals with my fingers by reaching up between the fan blades as best I could. That helped, but doing it from the top would get much better spread. ...or just spray 303 from the inside around the outside edges of the lid.

IrishRover · 06-29-2011, 06:00 AM

Hi Chaplain,

Several people have mentioned "303". I looked in my local (Florida) ACE hardware and they do not carry it. Do you know where I might find some?
Cheers,

Pat D
cdonahue2@cfl.rr.com

smlranger · 06-29-2011, 08:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IrishRover

Hi Chaplain,

Several people have mentioned "303". I looked in my local (Florida) ACE hardware and they do not carry it. Do you know where I might find some?
Cheers,

Pat D
cdonahue2@cfl.rr.com

You can get 303 at Camping World and other RV/Boat accessories stores.

FYI, I replaced one of my OEM roof vents with a new Fantastic Fan a couple of years ago. The Fantastic fan came with a small tube of some liguid lube that the instructions said to smear on the gasket. I did and have had no problems.