Article published on freedom.fr – July 20, 2025
On Réunion Island, as elsewhere, many households have recently expressed their exasperation over a growing phenomenon: ceiling fans that break down prematurely, sometimes just a few months after purchase, and repairs with widely varying costs, sometimes considered excessive.
On our channel, many of you testify to an extremely annoying situation…
Questioning Durability
Listeners point out the fragility of certain models, particularly those bought in supermarkets or online. Defective motors, blades coming loose, control systems that stop working… all recurring malfunctions suggesting a lack of reliability in some manufacturers.
“My fan, purchased for €80, only lasted six months. To have it repaired, I am asked for €90, which is more expensive than the new price,” laments a consumer from Saint-André.
Uneven Repairs, À La Carte Pricing
Another issue raised is the wide price differences depending on the repairer. A simple motor overhaul can cost between €45 and €120, depending on the company. Some technicians don’t even service “low-end” or “non-disassemblable” models. Others charge non-refundable diagnostic fees, even if no repair is carried out.
This lack of standardized pricing reinforces a sense of unfairness among users. “It feels like everyone sets their own price, with no rules. And there is no clear guarantee on repairs,” reports a resident of Saint-Pierre.
And this morning, the debate focused in particular on the price of the famous remote control: between €45 and €180! Especially since each ceiling fan has its own remote… and some listeners end up with four different fans and just as many remotes…
A Call for Better Information
Consumer associations, such as UFC-Que Choisir, recommend:
- checking the legal warranty period (minimum 2 years);
- choosing repairable models, with spare parts available;
- requesting multiple quotes before any repair.
They also call for greater transparency in commercial practices and standardization of repair pricing to prevent abuse.
Repair or Replace?
With repair costs often higher than those of a new model, many choose to replace their fans, raising ecological concerns. In response to this “throwaway” trend, voices are calling for the production of more durable appliances that are easier to disassemble and repair locally.
One listener mentioned that sometimes it’s enough just to replace the receiver… but, as in her case, you need to be lucky enough to have a husband who’s an electrician and has everything on hand!
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Read the Article on freedom.fr
You can find the article on the Freedom website: https://freedom.fr/brasseurs-dair-pannes-frequentes-reparations-couteuses-et-tarifs-disparates/