If your dryer, fridge or extractor fan suddenly stops spinning, the culprit is often a fan motor failure. The motor is the heart of any appliance that needs airflow, so when it quits, you notice noise, overheating or a complete stop. The good news is you don’t always need a full replacement – sometimes a quick check can save you money and the hassle.
Most motor failures boil down to three common culprits: wear and tear, electrical issues, and dirt build‑up. Over time the bearings inside the motor wear out, especially in appliances that run many cycles a week. A worn bearing creates friction, which makes the motor overheat and eventually seize.
Electrical problems like a shorted winding or a blown fuse can also stop the motor dead. If you notice a burnt smell or the motor doesn’t even try to turn when you switch the appliance on, it’s probably an electrical fault.
Finally, dust, lint and grime love to collect on fan blades and motor vents. When the airflow is blocked, the motor works harder and heats up faster, leading to premature failure. Regular cleaning can stop this from happening.
First, unplug the appliance and give the fan area a good clean. Use a vacuum or a soft brush to remove lint from dryer vents, fridge condensers or bathroom extractor fans. A clear path for air can often revive a sluggish motor.
If cleaning doesn’t help, check the motor’s power supply. Look at the plug and the fuse box – a tripped breaker or a blown fuse is an easy fix. Replace the fuse or reset the breaker, then test the appliance again.
When you’re comfortable with tools, remove the motor and give the bearings a spin. If they feel gritty or don’t rotate smoothly, apply a few drops of light machine oil. Run the motor by hand; if it still sticks, the winding is likely burnt out and the motor will need replacement.
Even if you manage a temporary fix, a failing fan motor can cause other parts to wear out faster. If the motor still makes unusual noises, heats up quickly, or won’t start after your DIY steps, it’s time to call a local expert.
In Nuneaton, our team at Nuneaton Appliance Repair Experts can diagnose the exact problem, source the right replacement motor, and get your appliance back in shape fast. We work on dryers, fridges, ovens, extractor fans and more, and we always explain what we’ve done so you know how to keep the motor healthy.
Bottom line: keep the fan area clean, check the power supply, and give the motor a quick oil if it feels sticky. If those steps don’t bring it back to life, don’t waste time – call a pro who knows the ins and outs of fan motor repair.
Extractor fans are crucial in maintaining air quality, but when they stop working, it can be due to various issues. Common problems include motor failure, electrical issues, and blockage due to dust accumulation. Understanding the underlying causes and how to troubleshoot them can save time and money. Proper maintenance also plays a key role in prolonging the life of your fan. Learn about these aspects to keep your extractor fan running smoothly.