When your extractor fan, a device that pulls moist, smoky, or stale air out of kitchens and bathrooms to improve indoor air quality. Also known as ventilation fan, it plays a quiet but vital role in keeping your home healthy and mold-free. stops working, it’s not just annoying—it’s a risk. Without proper ventilation, moisture builds up, walls get damp, and mold starts growing. This isn’t just about smell or noise—it’s about your home’s structure and your health.
Most extractor fans, a mechanical ventilation system commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms to remove humidity and odors fail for one of three reasons: the motor burns out, the switch breaks, or the blades get clogged with grease and dust. If you’ve noticed it’s louder than usual, doesn’t spin fast, or turns on but doesn’t pull air, it’s not just tired—it’s failing. Many people assume they need a full replacement, but sometimes all it takes is cleaning the grille or replacing a cheap capacitor. A qualified electrician, a licensed professional trained to install and repair electrical systems including extractor fans can diagnose the issue in under an hour and often fix it for under £100. Don’t let a broken fan lead to bigger, costlier problems like peeling paint or rotting wood.
It’s also worth asking: is your fan even the right size for the room? A tiny fan in a large bathroom won’t do the job, no matter how new it is. And if your fan is over 10 years old, it’s likely running inefficiently—even if it still turns on. Newer models are quieter, use less power, and come with timers or humidity sensors that turn them off automatically. You don’t need to replace it immediately, but if repairs keep popping up, it’s smarter to upgrade. The extractor fan lifespan, the average operational life of a residential ventilation fan, typically ranging from 8 to 15 years depends on usage, cleaning, and build quality. Regular maintenance, like wiping down the grille monthly, can add years to its life.
So what’s next? If you’re handy, start by turning off the power and cleaning the fan blades and housing. Check if the switch clicks properly. If it hums but doesn’t spin, the motor’s probably dead. If nothing happens at all, it could be the wiring or the fuse. But if you’re unsure, don’t risk it. Electrical faults in bathrooms and kitchens can be dangerous. A certified electrician, a licensed professional trained to install and repair electrical systems including extractor fans knows what to look for and how to fix it safely. Many homeowners wait too long—until the ceiling stains or the smell won’t go away. Don’t be one of them.
Below, you’ll find real-world fixes, cost breakdowns, and advice on whether to repair or replace your fan. We’ve pulled together the most helpful guides from local experts who’ve seen every kind of failure—from grease-clogged vents to wiring gone bad. Whether you’re looking for a quick DIY fix or need to know who to call in Nuneaton, you’ll find it here.
Kitchen extractor fans stop working due to grease buildup, motor failure, wiring issues, or blocked ducts. Learn the most common causes and how to fix them yourself with simple tools and steps.
Learn how to troubleshoot a faulty extractor fan with simple DIY fixes for power issues, noise, blocked ducts, and bad bearings. Save money and avoid mold with these step-by-step tips.