Kitchen Ventilation: Simple Fixes and Best Practices

Ever notice lingering steam or a stubborn smell after cooking? That’s a sign your kitchen ventilation isn’t doing its job. Good airflow clears heat, steam, and grease, protects your cabinets, and keeps the air healthy. Below you’ll find clear steps to boost your ventilation, fix common fan problems, and know when a professional is needed.

Why Good Kitchen Ventilation Matters

When you turn on the stove, heat and moisture rise quickly. A strong extractor fan pulls that air out, sending it through the duct and away from your home. Without proper venting, the steam settles on walls, creates mould, and can damage paint. Grease particles also coat surfaces, making cleaning a nightmare. Plus, poor ventilation can raise indoor humidity, which affects your comfort and can trigger allergies.

Most kitchens rely on a single fan or cooker hood. If the fan is weak, the duct is clogged, or the vent flap stays closed, you’ll feel the problem right away. Spotting the issue early saves you time and money, and prevents expensive repairs down the line.

Quick Fixes for Common Extractor Fan Issues

1. Check the filter. Metal or charcoal filters trap grease. Over time they get clogged, slowing airflow. Remove the filter, give it a good soak in hot, soapy water, scrub with a brush, rinse, and let it dry fully before reinstalling.

2. Inspect the duct. A kinked or blocked duct reduces suction. Look for visible bends, dust, or bird nests. If you see a blockage, use a flexible brush or a vacuum to clear it. Straightening the duct as much as possible improves pull.

3. Test the vent flap. Many hoods have an external flap that opens when the fan runs. If it’s stuck, the fan pushes air into the kitchen instead of outside. Gently pull the flap open and see if the fan sounds louder – that’s a good sign.

4. Clean the fan motor. Dust can coat the motor blades. Turn off power, remove the fan cover, and wipe the blades with a damp cloth. Avoid getting water on wiring. A clean motor spins faster, boosting suction.

5. Reset the fan. Some modern fans have a reset button or a fuse. If the fan stops suddenly, unplug it, wait a minute, then plug it back in. If it still won’t run, the fuse may need replacing – refer to the manual for the correct rating.

If these steps don’t bring back strong suction, the fan motor may be worn out, or the electrical wiring could be faulty. That’s when you should call a qualified repair service. Trying to fix motor internals without training can be dangerous.

Another tip: run the fan for a few minutes after cooking, even if the kitchen looks clear. This clears residual heat and moisture, preventing foggy windows and hidden mould growth.

Lastly, consider the size of your hood. A hood that’s too small for your cooktop won’t move enough air, no matter how clean it is. The rule of thumb is at least 100 CFM (cubic feet per minute) per 12 inches of cooktop width. If you have a large range, upgrading to a higher‑CFM hood may be the best solution.

Good kitchen ventilation is about regular maintenance and the right equipment. With these quick checks, you can keep your fan humming, your kitchen smelling fresh, and avoid costly repairs. When in doubt, give Bridgewater Appliance Fixers a call – we’ll sort out stubborn fans, duct work, and any electrical concerns fast and safely.