Extractor Fan Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Quick Fixes

When your extractor fan, a device that pulls steam, smoke, and odors out of your kitchen or bathroom. Also known as range hood, it's one of the most overlooked but critical parts of your home’s ventilation system. If it’s not pulling air properly, making strange noises, or won’t turn on at all, you’re not alone. Most people assume it’s broken beyond repair—but often, it’s just clogged, dirty, or has a simple electrical glitch.

Extractor fan problems usually come down to a few key things: grease buildup, a layer of oily residue that clogs filters and blades over time, faulty wiring, loose connections or worn-out switches that stop power from reaching the motor, or a failed capacitor, a small component that helps the motor start and run smoothly. These aren’t rare issues—they happen in homes everywhere, especially if the fan hasn’t been cleaned in over a year. And yes, a dirty fan doesn’t just run poorly—it can become a fire hazard. The UK Fire Service has reported dozens of kitchen fires each year linked to neglected extractor fans.

Before you call a technician, check the basics. Is the fan plugged in? Is the circuit breaker tripped? Is the filter removable and caked in grease? A quick clean can fix 60% of problems. If it still hums but doesn’t spin, the motor or capacitor might be dead. If it’s silent, the switch or wiring is likely the culprit. Most repairs don’t require replacing the whole unit—just a part or two. And if you’re unsure, a professional can diagnose it in under 30 minutes.

The posts below cover everything from how to clean your extractor fan safely, to diagnosing electrical faults, to understanding why some models fail faster than others. You’ll find step-by-step fixes for noisy fans, guides on testing motors with a multimeter, and real-world examples of what happens when you ignore the warning signs. Whether you’re dealing with a weak airflow, a fan that won’t turn off, or one that won’t start at all, there’s a solution here that matches your issue. No fluff. No guesswork. Just what actually works.