Cooker Hood Not Sucking? How to Fix It Fast

Ever notice smoke lingering over your stove because the hood just isn’t pulling air? It’s frustrating, but in most cases you can sort it out without tearing down the whole kitchen. Below are the most common culprits and what you can do right now.

Check the Power and Switches

The first thing to do is make sure the hood actually has power. Some models have a separate on/off button, a pull‑chain, or a remote control. If the light works but the fan doesn’t, the motor may be the problem. Reset any built‑in circuit breaker, and if the hood is on a separate fuse, flip it off and on again. A simple reset can revive a motor that tripped overnight.

Clean or Replace the Filters

Grease‑filled filters are the number one reason a hood loses suction. Most hoods use either metal mesh or charcoal filters. Take them out, soak them in hot soapy water, scrub gently, and let them dry completely before reinstalling. If you have charcoal filters, they’re meant to be replaced every 3‑6 months – they can’t be washed.

Don’t forget to check the filter housing for debris too. A few stray crumbs or a piece of foil can block airflow and make the fan work harder.

Inspect the Ductwork

If your hood is vented outside, the duct might be crushed, clogged, or disconnected. Look for obvious kinks or drops in the exterior vent cap – a bird’s nest or leaves can choke the flow. Detach the duct (you’ll need a screwdriver) and blow air through it; if it’s hard to push air through, it’s time to clean or replace the duct.

For recirculating hoods, the internal duct is usually a flexible tube that can collapse over time. Straighten it or swap it for a new piece if it looks mangled.

Listen to the Fan Motor

A humming or rattling sound often means the motor bearings are wearing out. Turn the hood on low speed and listen carefully. If it’s noisy, the motor may need lubrication or replacement. Most manufacturers sell a motor kit that includes a simple plug‑in replacement – you don’t need a specialist if you’re comfortable with basic electrical work.

But if the motor doesn’t spin at all, even after checking the power, the wiring could be loose. Tighten any visible connectors, but if you’re unsure, call a qualified electrician to avoid a shock hazard.

Check the Speed Settings

Modern hoods often have multiple speed settings. If you’re only using the lowest setting, the suction might feel weak. Try the highest setting; if the airflow improves, the motor is fine but the low speed may be under‑powered for your cooking style.

Some hoods also have an “auto” mode that adjusts speed based on heat sensors. If the sensor is dirty, the hood may not ramp up when you need it most. Clean the sensor area with a soft cloth.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve gone through the power check, cleaned the filters, inspected the duct, and the hood still won’t pull air, it’s time to call a pro. A technician can test the motor’s amperage, replace worn parts, and ensure the wiring meets UK safety standards.

Also call a professional if you spot any burnt smells, sparks, or if the hood’s cover feels unusually hot. Those are signs of serious electrical issues that need a qualified repair service.

Fixing a non‑sucking cooker hood is usually a quick DIY job, but knowing when to stop and let an expert step in saves you time, money, and possible safety risks. Keep your kitchen fresh, keep the smoke out, and enjoy cooking without a cloud of grease hanging over you.