Clean Extractor Fan Motor – Step‑by‑Step Guide

If your kitchen fan feels weak, the motor is probably clogged with grease and dust. A dirty motor reduces airflow, makes the fan noisy, and can even burn out faster. The good news? You can clean it yourself in less than an hour and get the suction back without calling a pro.

Why a Dirty Motor Stops Suction

The motor drives the fan blade, which pushes air through the duct. Over time the blades and the housing collect cooking fumes, oil, and food particles. Those deposits act like a brake, slowing the blade and restricting the air path. When the air can’t move freely, you notice steam hanging around the stove and the fan sounding weak.

Another side effect is extra heat. A motor that works harder to spin a greasy blade can overheat, leading to premature wear or a tripped circuit breaker. Regular cleaning keeps the motor cool, quiet, and efficient.

How to Clean the Motor Safely

1. Turn off power. Switch off the breaker or unplug the fan. Safety first – you don’t want a surprise start while you’re working.

2. Remove the outer cover. Most kitchen fans have a screw‑less clip system. Gently push the clips or unscrew the few screws holding the cover. Set the cover aside.

3. Take out the fan blade. The blade is usually held by a small plastic or metal bracket. Note how it sits, then lift it out. This gives you clear access to the motor housing.

4. Vacuum the motor housing. Use a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment to suck out loose dust and grease. Move the nozzle around the motor’s vents and the interior walls.

5. Brush away stubborn grime. A soft‑bristle kitchen brush or an old toothbrush works well. Dip it in warm, soapy water (a few drops of dish soap) and scrub the motor’s outer case. Avoid getting water inside the motor windings – just wipe the surface.

6. Clean the fan blade. Soak the blade in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, then scrub with the brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly. A clean blade spins faster, pulling more air through the duct.

7. Dry everything. Use a clean cloth or let the parts air‑dry for at least 10 minutes. Make sure there’s no moisture left before reassembly.

8. Reassemble. Put the blade back, snap the cover on, and tighten any screws. Double‑check that the fan sits firmly and that no wires are pinched.

9. Test the fan. Turn the power back on and run the fan. You should feel a noticeable increase in suction and hear a smoother operation. If it’s still weak, the duct might be clogged and needs a separate cleaning.

For best results, repeat this cleaning every 6‑12 months depending on how often you cook. Heavy‑smoking kitchens may need a quarterly clean, while a light‑use kitchen can wait a year.

Keeping the motor clean not only restores performance but also extends the life of the whole extractor system. A little maintenance now saves you from costly repairs or a premature replacement later.

Got questions about a specific fan model or need help with a stubborn odor? Drop a comment below or give Bridgewater Appliance Fixers a call. We’re happy to walk you through any tricky step.