How to Unblock Your Kitchen Extractor Fan in 5 Easy Steps

When your extractor fan starts sounding weak or stops working, the kitchen can feel stuffy fast. Most blockages are just grease, dust, or a trapped piece of food. The good news? You can usually fix it yourself in under half an hour.

Step 1: Safety First – Turn Off Power

Before you lift anything, switch off the fan at the wall switch or, better yet, shut the circuit breaker. A quick check with a voltage tester will confirm it’s dead. This protects you from shocks and keeps the fan motor safe while you work.

Step 2: Remove the Cover and Inspect

Most kitchen fans have a removable metal or plastic grill. Unscrew the four or six screws (often hidden behind a plastic clip) and pull the cover away. Look for a build‑up of grease, crumbs, or even a loose pot lid. Use a flashlight – a dirty fan is easier to spot when you shine light on the blades.

If the cover itself is greasy, soak it in hot, soapy water for a few minutes. While it’s soaking, grab a soft brush or an old toothbrush and scrub the fan blades gently. Avoid metal tools that could bend the blades.

Step 3: Clear the Ductwork

Most blockages happen in the duct that leads to the outside or the attic. Detach the duct from the fan housing – there’s usually a clamp or a cardboard zip tie. Use a long flexible brush or a vacuum hose to pull out any debris that’s traveled down the pipe.

If the duct is long, work from both ends. A shop‑vac on the outside outlet can suck out dust that’s settled deep inside. Remember to wear a dust mask; cleaning grease can release oily particles.

Step 4: Re‑assemble and Test

Put the duct back on, tighten the clamps, and reinstall the grill. Turn the power back on and run the fan on low speed first. You should hear a smoother whir and feel more air moving across the kitchen.

If the fan still sounds weak, the motor might be overheating from years of grease build‑up. Give it a few minutes to cool, then repeat the cleaning. Persistent problems may need a professional motor check, but most blockages are solved here.

Step 5: Keep It Clean

To avoid future blockages, wipe the grill every month with a damp cloth. Run the fan for a few minutes after cooking to push grease out of the system. If you notice a foul smell, the filter (if your model has one) probably needs a deep clean or replacement.

Regular maintenance only takes a few minutes but saves you from a smelly, humid kitchen and costly call‑outs. A clean fan keeps your kitchen fresh and your energy bills lower.

Got a stubborn smell or a fan that won’t start even after cleaning? That’s a sign the motor or electrical wiring may need a pro’s eye. Bridgewater Appliance Fixers can step in fast, so you’re never stuck cooking in a fog.