Extractor Fan Repair: DIY Fixes and Pro Help

If your kitchen or bathroom extractor fan is humming but not pulling air, you’re not alone. Most homeowners notice weak suction, strange noises, or a fan that won’t start at all. The good news? Many of these issues can be solved with a few tools and a little time. Below you’ll find the most common causes and simple steps you can try before picking up the phone.

Common Reasons Your Extractor Fan Stops Working

First, understand what can go wrong. A greasy filter is the #1 culprit – it clogs the airflow and makes the motor work harder. Another frequent problem is a blocked duct; dust, bird nests, or even a loose vent flap can stop the air from escaping. Electrical glitches, like a tripped breaker or a burnt-out motor, also show up as a silent fan. Finally, vibration can loosen screws, causing the fan to wobble and lose efficiency.

Step‑by‑Step DIY Checks & When to Call a Pro

1. Turn off power. Safety first – switch off the circuit breaker or unplug the unit. 2. Clean the filter. Remove the metal or charcoal filter, soak it in warm, soapy water, scrub away grease, and let it dry completely. 3. Inspect the duct. Detach the duct from the fan housing and look for clogs. A flexible brush or a vacuum hose works well for clearing debris.

4. Test the vent flap. Some fans have a back‑draft damper that can stick closed. Open it manually and watch for smooth movement. 5. Check the motor. With the fan still off, give the motor shaft a gentle spin. If it feels gritty or doesn’t turn, the bearings may need lubrication or the motor could be burnt out.

If any of these steps reveal a broken motor, wiring issues, or you feel uncomfortable working with electricity, it’s time to call a professional. At Bridgewater Appliance Fixers we can safely replace motor parts, rewire the unit, or recommend a new fan if the old one is beyond repair.

Remember, regular maintenance keeps your fan humming happily for years. Make it a habit to clean the filter every month, especially after heavy cooking, and give the duct a quick check twice a year. Small effort now saves you a pricey service call later.

Need a fast, reliable fix? Our team in Bridgewater offers same‑day appointments for extractor fan repair, complete with a warranty on parts and labour. We’ll diagnose the issue, explain what we’re doing, and get your kitchen or bathroom back to fresh, dry comfort without any hidden fees.

Got a stubborn fan that still won’t breathe? Drop a comment below with the make and model – we love a good troubleshooting challenge and can point you to the exact part you may need. Whether you DIY or let us handle it, you’ll have a working fan in no time.