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Apprentice Q&A · #240

How do I stop a fan or terminal unit from swaying on long hanger rods?

3rd YearSeismic / VibrationYELLOW · Check First

Long unbraced hanger rods can let equipment swing, rattle, and transfer vibration. Check support, isolation, and lateral/seismic bracing before the ceiling closes.

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Plain-English answer

A fan, terminal box, or fan coil hung on long rods can act like a pendulum when the motor starts. The problem may be missing lateral restraint, wrong isolation, unsupported duct weight, or rods that are too long for the load.

The likely correction is approved lateral/seismic bracing, vibration isolation, proper equipment supports, and making sure the duct connection is not carrying or pulling the equipment. Do not invent bracing that conflicts with seismic details; follow the approved support/isolation detail.

Field checklist

Ask Foreman

This [fan/unit] is swinging on long rods when it runs. I checked rods, isolation, duct pull, and bracing. Do you want approved lateral/seismic bracing added or the support layout revised before ceiling cover?

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Verify before acting

Use this as training guidance. The foreman, approved drawings, project specs, manufacturer installation instructions, employer safety policy, and AHJ/code requirements always control the final answer.

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