Fan Stopped Working? How to Diagnose and Fix It Fast

If your kitchen or bathroom fan has gone silent, you’re probably wondering what went wrong and if you can fix it yourself. The good news is that many fan failures are simple to spot and repair. The bad news? Some problems need a qualified tech, especially when electricity is involved. Below you’ll find the most common culprits and a step‑by‑step guide to get your fan humming again.

Common Reasons a Fan Won’t Run

First, let’s talk about what usually makes a fan quit. The motor is the heart of the unit, so if it’s burnt out, the fan stops. A tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse can also cut power instantly. Dirt and grease buildup on the blades or motor housing can cause the motor to overheat and shut down. Loose wiring, a broken switch, or a faulty thermostat (in dryer fans) are other frequent offenders.

Another often‑overlooked issue is the fan’s capacitor. This small part gives the motor the initial boost it needs to start. When the capacitor fails, the fan may hum but never spin. Lastly, if you’ve recently moved the appliance or bumped the fan, the mounting screws might have come loose, causing the motor to wobble and stop.

Step‑by‑Step DIY Checks

Ready to troubleshoot? Grab a screwdriver, a flashlight, and a basic voltage tester. Safety first – turn off the breaker that powers the fan before you start.

1. Check the power source. Make sure the wall switch is on and the outlet works. Plug another device into the same socket to confirm it’s live.
2. Inspect the fuse or circuit breaker. A tripped breaker will sit in the middle position. Flip it fully to the OFF position, then back to ON.
3. Look for obvious damage. Remove the fan’s cover (usually a couple of screws). If you see burnt wires, scorch marks, or a melted motor, it’s time to call a pro.
4. Clean the blades and motor housing. Use a soft brush or vacuum to get rid of dust and grease. A clean motor runs cooler and lasts longer.
5. Test the motor with a multimeter. Set the meter to AC voltage, touch the probes to the motor terminals, and see if you get a reading. No voltage? The motor is likely dead.
6. Check the capacitor. If you have basic electronics knowledge, remove the capacitor (it looks like a small cylinder) and test it with a multimeter set to capacitance. A reading far from the printed value means replacement.

If the fan spins after you reassemble everything, you’ve saved a callout fee. If not, don’t stress – some issues are best left to experts. A professional can safely replace a motor, rewire connections, or repair a faulty switch without risking injury or further damage.

At Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services, we’ve seen every fan fault under the kitchen sink. Our technicians arrive on time, diagnose the problem quickly, and fix it at a fair price. Whether it’s a stubborn extractor fan or a noisy bathroom vent, we’ve got the tools and experience to get it running right.

So, before you grab the phone, run through these checks. You might just have a quick fix in your hands. If the fan still won’t turn, give us a call – we’ll have your home back to fresh and quiet in no time.