three speed fan motor question

[flashlight]

For an attic exhaust fan the factory pull-chain switch is sptt, with three
output wires to the fan motor corresponding to the three speeds.

The pull-chain switch is on factory j-box attached to fan. We will wire and
supply a new switch at a more accessible location. So we will run 12-4 and
get a sptt fan control switch for wall mounting.

However, I was wondering: What if we ran 12-2 and wired to the highest speed wire for the motor, then used a typical variable speed fan control with only one output wire ?

 

[kwired]

I would connect it to high speed and install single pole switch and be done with it.

There is likely no need for three speeds.

Otherwise as long as it is a shaded pole or PSC motor the speed control should work.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Before I used a variable control on any fan I would check with the manufacturer to make sure it can be used safely with their product.

 

[flashlight]

I would connect it to high speed and install single pole switch and be done with it.

Agree, but customer wants 3 speeds...

Before I used a variable control on any fan I would check with the manufacturer to make sure it can be used safely with their product.

Will do that, thanks.

 

[Electric-Light]

You can find remote control receiver(which has relays or solid state circuits) to let you use multiple speeds without pulling more wires.