Got a fan that’s sputtering, making weird noises, or just won’t turn on? Swapping it out yourself can save a few pounds, but you need the right plan. Below you’ll find the tools, safety checks, and a step‑by‑step walk‑through so you can get fresh airflow without a pricey call‑out.
Before you lift a single screw, gather these basics: a flat‑head screwdriver, Phillips head, a small adjustable wrench, a ladder or sturdy stool, and a flashlight. If the fan is wired to the mains, you’ll also need a voltage tester. Turn off the circuit at the consumer unit – even if the switch on the wall is off, the wires can still hold a charge. Double‑check with the tester; you don’t want a shock while you’re on a ladder.
Make sure the area is dry and the room is well‑ventilated. A wet hand or a damp floor is a recipe for a slip or a short. If you feel unsure about the wiring, it’s smarter to call an electrician. A quick call can prevent a fire risk and keep your insurance happy.
1. Remove the old fan cover. Most extractor fans have a plastic or metal grille clipped in place. Pry it gently with a flat‑head screwdriver – it usually pops off without damage.
2. Detach the fan housing. Look for the mounting screws that hold the fan to the ceiling or wall. Unscrew them and pull the unit away, exposing the wiring.
3. Label the wires. Take a piece of masking tape and write down which wire is live (brown or red), neutral (blue or black), and earth (green/yellow). This saves headaches when you hook up the new fan.
4. Disconnect the old unit. Loosen the terminal block or connectors and pull the wires free. Keep the labels in place.
5. Fit the new fan. Position the new housing where the old one sat, making sure it’s level. Tighten the mounting screws securely – a loose fan will vibrate and make noise.
6. Reconnect the wiring. Match the labels: live to live, neutral to neutral, earth to earth. Tighten the terminals firmly, but don’t over‑tighten and strip the screws.
7. Test before you seal. Switch the circuit back on at the consumer unit and turn the fan switch on. You should hear it spin and feel airflow. If it doesn’t work, double‑check the connections or use the tester to see if power is reaching the unit.
8. Replace the grille. Clip the cover back on, making sure it sits flush. Some models have a silicone seal – press it in to keep moisture out.
That’s it – you’ve replaced the fan. Clean the new grille with a damp cloth every few months to keep it running smoothly.
When to call a professional? If you hit any of these roadblocks: the fan is hard‑wired into a circuit with a fuse box you can’t access, the wiring looks damaged, you’re not comfortable working at height, or you need to relocate the fan to a different spot. A qualified electrician or plumber can handle the job safely and often within an hour.
Replacing an extractor fan isn’t rocket science, but it does need a little prep and respect for the electricity involved. Follow these steps, stay safe, and you’ll enjoy fresh, dry air in no time.
Swapping out an extractor fan sounds like a hassle, but it's easier than you might think—if you know what to look for. This article explains what makes a fan replacement simple or tough, lays out the basics you need for the job, and points out the common pitfalls people hit. You'll get tips for avoiding problems and finding out if a pro is really needed. You'll walk away knowing what you can handle and when to call for backup.