Your Harbor Breeze ceiling fan is a beautiful addition to your home. When we talk about the beauty aspect of a ceiling fan, most of the credit goes to the lighting and ceiling fan globe that covers the light bulb in a ceiling fan’s light fixture.
With time, a ceiling fan globe can get dirty, damaged, or simply outdated over time. However, these are a few issues that a homeowner comes across after the installation; a few problems can be there with the globe even before installing it in place.
To make things easier for you, I’ll discuss all the common problems with the ceiling fan globes, both before and after the installation, their solutions, and tips to prevent them. I’ll also tell you how to choose one. Read on to learn more!
What Are Different Types Of Ceiling Fan Globe?
Ceiling fan globes come in various materials, such as glass, acrylic, and various plastics. Glass globes are available in frosted or clear variations, offering a combination of durability and a stylish aesthetic.
Meanwhile, plastic globes can be opaque or translucent. Acrylic globes are a lightweight and shatterproof alternative, making them a safer option, especially for households with children or pets.
The following table better summarizes the different types of ceiling fan globes.
| Type | Material | Durability | Light Transmission | Effect |
| Glass | Glass | High | High | Classic and elegant look |
| Plastic | Plastic | Medium | High | Affordable and durable |
| Acrylic | Acrylic | Medium-high | Medium | A good compromise between plastic and glass |
| Frosted | Glass or plastic | Medium | Low | Diffuses light for a soft, ambient glow |
| Translucent | Glass or plastic | Medium | Medium | Allows some light to pass through for a subtle effect |
Common Problems With Ceiling Fan Replacement Globes & Their Solutions
Uneven Light Distribution
Suppose you have just installed a new globe on your ceiling fan and see an uneven light distribution. If this is the case, the culprit behind this issue is the globe that is not seated properly or is slightly tilted.
Solution: The solution is simple: attach it evenly to the fan’s light fixture and properly secure the Harbor Breeze glass bowl replacement. Check for any misorientation and make essential adjustments to achieve even light distribution.
Flickering or Dimming Lights
Although not directly connected to the globe, flickering or dimming lights are something that shines out of the globe. Improper electrical connections are why your ceiling fan’s lights start flickering or dimming after installing a new globe.
Solution: Double-check the wiring connections to ensure they are connected and properly secured. Start with troubleshooting the electrical connections you have worked with during the globe installation. If the issue persists, consult an electrician to inspect and fix any electrical issues.
Condensation Buildup
In some environments with temperature and humidity fluctuations, condensation can form inside the globe, leading to foggy or water droplet-covered surfaces. This is harmful to the light kit inside your fan and looks unaesthetic.
Solution: First of all, remove the globe from the light fixture. Take a clean piece of cloth and clear the moisture gently. Once cleaned, properly seal the globe; ensure it is seated correctly to prevent condensation.
TIP: If condensation still occurs, you can use a desiccant (silica gel packets) inside the globe to absorb moisture or consider using an anti-condensation coating inside the globe.
Yellowing or Discoloration
Over time, replacement globes, especially plastic ones, may become yellow or discolored due to exposure to UV light or heat. Unfortunately, there’s no way to reverse yellowing once it occurs. But you can remove that yellowish part using the following method.
Solution: There is a cleaning method called the comet method that can help you get rid of any discoloration from the ceiling fan globe. For this method, you’ll need Comet cleaner (powder), water, a bucket or large bowl, dish detergent, and a scrubbing sponge.
- First, make the glass globes wet by splashing some water on them.
- Take a scrubbing sponge and sprinkle some Comet cleaner powder on it.
- Use the scrubbing sponge with Comet cleaner on the glass. Scrub the glass globes gently but firmly. It will take some effort and time, but keep scrubbing until the yellowish color starts to disappear.
- After you’ve removed the yellow, wash the glass pieces with water and a bit of dish detergent.
- Get rid of all the detergent by properly rinsing the glass with clean water.
- Finally, allow the glass globes to air dry.
TIP: To prevent yellowing or discoloration, choose replacement globes made from materials such as acrylic and tempered glass. You can also periodically replace the Harbor Breeze Lynstead replacement globes to maintain a fresh appearance.
Difficulty Cleaning
Replacement globes, like any glass or plastic fixture, can accumulate dust, dirt, or grime over time, which can affect the quality of light and aesthetics. Sometimes, if you let the dust and dirt be there for a while, it becomes challenging to clean and affects the quality of light.
Solution: Gently take off the Harbor Breeze Santa Ana replacement globe cover of the ceiling fan. Wash it in warm, soapy water. Make sure it’s completely dry, and then put it back on the fan. If the light bulbs work fine, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe off dust.
TIP: Clean the inside of the Harbor Breeze ceiling fan light bulb cover regularly using a duster or a soft cloth with an extended handle to reach high places. Consider removing the globe periodically for a more thorough cleaning.
Compatibility Issues
When we talk about compatibility, it is in terms of two aspects. One is the fitter compatibility; the fitter is the part of the globe that connects to the fan’s light fixture. Different fans may have different fitter types, such as threaded, twist-on, or bayonet-style.
Second, is the compatibility between the light kit bulb and the ceiling fan globe. Some replacement globes may have limitations on the type of light bulbs they can accommodate due to their size. If incompatible, you can either break the globe or the light bulb.
Solution: If you have purchased an incompatible ceiling fan globe, there is one thing you can do to resolve it: return it to the seller and buy a new, compatible globe. This time, choose a replacement globe compatible with your specific ceiling fan model.
TIP: Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines. Or, see online for the correct size of the globe for your ceiling fan.
Where Can I Buy Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fan Globes?
Look for Harbor Breeze ceiling fan globes at the Lowes official online store; chances are, you’ll get the item you are looking for. However, if you don’t find your globe here, check on Amazon, eBay, or Wayfair to get your fan’s replacement parts.
FAQs
Can You Replace Just The Globe On a Ceiling Fan?
Yes, you can replace the globe on a ceiling fan without replacing the entire fan. However, choose a replacement globe that matches your existing fan’s size and fitter type to ensure a proper fit.
What Is Fitter On a Globe?
The fitter is the lip’s outer edge or diameter that goes into the shade holder of the light fixture. It is always a bit smaller than the holder, so it fits snugly inside.
How Do I Measure My Existing Fan For a Replacement Globe?
Measure the circular part where the globe attaches to the fan. This is called the “mounting ring”. Once you have this measurement, look for a globe smaller than the mounting ring. It should be a few millimeters or a fraction of an inch smaller.
NOTE: Avoid globes that are much larger, like half an inch or a whole inch bigger, as they probably won’t fit properly.