How NOT to fix a Harbor Breeze fan

The Problem

The new porch fan was not working. Here are the facts that we had to work with:

• Pressing remote button (see picture), caused nothing to happen. Fan did not move, light did not turn on.
• Light on remote illuminated when a button was pushed
• Fan was working 1 week ago
• 5 days ago there was a brief power interruption - kids and Dad were in basement - total darkness

The Investigation

So putting on our detective hats, here is what we tried.

1. Check GFCI switch that controls power. In the past this had solved the issue 2 times.
   Result: switch not tripped
2. Check circuit breaker.
   Result: breaker not tripped
3. Retrieve user manual and follow troubleshooting guide. Get ladder, climb up and verify that the fan reverse switch was properly engaged.
   Result:: fan still not working
4. Take fan top assembly apart to verify that fan is getting power.
   Result 1: Nope.
   Result 2 (after changing settings on multi-meter): Yes.

The Fail

Humm. Contemplate switching battery on remote. Text contractor. Sleep on it. Go to work the next day.

The Solution

Re-consult owner's manual to learn how to re-establish a connection between the remote and the fan.

1. Open back of remote
2. Turn off power at switch, and turn back on
3. Press reset button on remote while pointing at fan.
   Result: Light blinks, remote synchronizes, fan works.

Gads. A long way to get from point A to point B.