Whether you are replacing a pull chain or looking for a way to control your ceiling fans without using a remote, a ceiling fan variable speed control is a good choice. These controls mount in the ceiling and replace a standard switch, or work with your smart home system to control your fans remotely. They also offer a wider range of speeds than traditional wall switches. They may come with a decorative switchplate or be compatible with your existing one.
Generally, they use the same circuit as the standard regulator in your switchboard. Conventional models feature a wired controller circuit attached to an adjustable dial or toggle for changing the speed of the attached fan. They include a series of wire spools that have varying amounts of resistance to electrical current. By adjusting the dial, you align one of the spools with your particular fan. The new level of resistance changes the amount of power reaching that fan, thereby altering its speed.
Other fans use a different type of circuit to control the speed. These are called capacitor regulators, and they rely on the reactance of a series combination of capacitors to change the incoming voltage. A lower capacitance results in a slower fan, while a higher capacitance yields a faster one.
A few models use hybrid technology, which combines the features of conventional Variac transformer-style devices with electronic controller circuits. These are slightly more expensive than regular wall switches, but they can reduce energy consumption considerably. In most cases, the extra cost can be recouped in less than two years through your reduced electricity bills.