Fix Extractor Fan: Common Problems, DIY Fixes, and When to Call a Pro

When your extractor fan, a ventilation device used in kitchens and bathrooms to remove steam, smoke, and odors. Also known as exhaust fan, it keeps your home healthy by pulling out moisture and preventing mold stops working, it’s not just annoying—it’s a risk. Damp air lingers, walls get sticky, and mold creeps in. You don’t need to replace it right away. Most extractor fans can be fixed with basic tools and a little know-how.

The extractor fan motor, the core component that spins the blades to move air is often the culprit. After years of dust and grease buildup, it struggles to turn. A quick clean with a soft brush and vinegar can bring it back to life. If the fan hums but doesn’t spin, the capacitor might be dead—cheap to replace and easy to swap. Then there’s the extractor fan switch, the wall control that sends power to the fan. If it’s loose or worn, the fan won’t turn on at all. A $10 replacement switch fixes that in under an hour.

Don’t ignore the duct. If your fan runs but no air comes out, the duct’s probably blocked. Grease from cooking or bird nests in outdoor vents can choke airflow. Pulling out the duct and cleaning it with a vacuum or brush often solves the problem. And if your fan’s over 10 years old, even if it works, it’s using twice the energy of a new model. Replacing it isn’t just a repair—it’s a long-term save.

You’ll find real fixes here—not theory. We’ve collected guides that walk you through diagnosing a silent fan, cleaning a grease-clogged kitchen extractor, testing a faulty capacitor, and even how to replace the whole unit without calling an electrician. Some posts show you how to do it in under 30 minutes. Others explain why a fan that’s barely working is costing you more in energy bills than a new one would cost. And yes, we cover when to stop fixing and start replacing—because sometimes, the cheapest fix is walking away.