Extractor Fan Not Working? Common Causes and Quick Fixes

When your extractor fan, a device that removes steam, smoke, and odors from your kitchen or bathroom. Also known as range hood, it's one of the most ignored but vital parts of your home ventilation system. If it stops working, you're not just dealing with bad smells—you're inviting mold, condensation, and even long-term damage to your walls and ceilings. Most people assume it’s a big job, but often, it’s just a dirty filter or a loose wire.

Behind every silent extractor fan is usually a simple problem. The motor, the component that spins the fan blades can wear out after years of constant use, especially in high-humidity areas like kitchens. The filter, the mesh or charcoal trap that catches grease and particles gets clogged over time, choking airflow until the fan gives up. And let’s not forget the wiring, the electrical connections that power the unit—they can loosen, corrode, or get damaged by moisture. These aren’t rare failures; they’re normal wear and tear.

Many homeowners try to ignore the problem until the smell lingers or the ceiling starts peeling. But fixing an extractor fan early saves you from bigger repairs. Cleaning the filter takes five minutes. Checking the power supply takes two. Replacing a motor might cost less than a new fan. You don’t need to be an electrician to diagnose most issues—just a little patience and a multimeter. The posts below cover exactly what to check, how to test each part, and when it’s better to replace the whole unit instead of wasting time on a repair. You’ll find real fixes from people who’ve been there, not just theory.