Posted by Orin Trask
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Most people don’t think about their extractor fan until it stops working-or worse, until they notice mold growing in the bathroom or grease buildup on the kitchen ceiling. But extractor fans aren’t meant to last forever. Knowing when to replace one can save you from expensive repairs, poor air quality, and even health issues down the line.
On average, a standard extractor fan lasts between 10 and 15 years. That’s if it’s been properly maintained and isn’t stuck in a high-moisture or high-heat environment. Fans in bathrooms, especially in older homes without good ventilation, often wear out faster-sometimes as early as 7 to 8 years. Kitchen fans, which deal with grease and smoke, tend to last longer if cleaned regularly, but they still degrade over time.
It’s not just about age. The motor inside the fan is the first thing to go. Over time, dust, moisture, and grease clog the bearings, making the motor work harder. That extra strain heats up the components, shortening the fan’s life. If your fan is making a grinding noise, humming loudly, or only runs on high speed now, the motor’s on its last legs.
You don’t need to wait for complete failure. Here are the real-world signs your extractor fan needs replacing:
In Wellington, where damp winters and poor insulation in older homes are common, extractor fans get pushed harder than in drier climates. If you’ve lived in your home for more than a decade and haven’t replaced the fan, it’s likely overdue.
Ignoring a bad extractor fan isn’t just inconvenient-it’s risky. Moisture buildup leads to rot in walls, ceilings, and floor joists. In extreme cases, structural damage can cost thousands to fix. Mold exposure is linked to respiratory problems, especially in children and the elderly. The World Health Organization lists damp indoor environments as a major health hazard.
In kitchens, grease buildup isn’t just messy-it’s a fire hazard. Grease accumulates in ducts over time, and if the fan motor sparks or overheats, that grease can ignite. Insurance companies in New Zealand have reported a 22% increase in claims related to kitchen fires caused by neglected extractor fans between 2020 and 2024.
And then there’s the cost of energy. A struggling fan runs longer to try to clear the air, wasting electricity. A modern, energy-efficient fan can use up to 60% less power than an old model. Replacing it isn’t just about comfort-it’s about saving money.
Some issues can be fixed. If the fan’s just dusty, cleaning the blades and motor housing can restore airflow. If the switch is broken, replacing the control panel is cheap and easy. But if the motor is failing, the bearings are seized, or the housing is cracked, repair isn’t worth it.
Here’s a simple rule: If the repair cost is more than half the price of a new fan, replace it. A basic extractor fan costs between $80 and $150. Labor to install it runs about $100 to $180, depending on duct access. That’s less than most motor repairs and comes with a warranty.
Also, consider upgrading. Newer models come with humidity sensors, timers, and quiet DC motors. Some even have Bluetooth controls or integrate with smart home systems. If you’re already replacing it, why not get one that actually works well?
Not all extractor fans are the same. Here’s what to look for:
Brands like Vent-Axia, EnviroVent, and Extracta are common in New Zealand and widely available at Bunnings or local electrical suppliers. Avoid no-name brands sold online-they often lack proper certifications and have poor customer support.
If you’re handy, replacing an extractor fan is a weekend project. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker. Remove the old unit, check the duct for blockages or rodent nests, and clean it out. Make sure the new fan fits the same hole size-most standard models are 150mm or 200mm in diameter.
Use flexible ducting only if you must. Rigid metal ducting is better for airflow and fire safety. Seal all joints with aluminum tape, not regular duct tape-it melts over time. Test the fan after installation. Run it for 10 minutes and check for leaks or vibrations.
If you’re not confident, hire a licensed electrician. In New Zealand, any electrical work involving fixed wiring must comply with the Electrical (Safety) Regulations. DIY mistakes can void insurance or lead to fines.
Even if you’re not replacing the fan, cleaning it matters. Dust and grease build up fast. Clean the grille and blades every 3 to 6 months. Use warm soapy water and a soft brush. Don’t use harsh chemicals-they can damage plastic parts.
Once a year, check the duct. Remove the vent cover outside and look for blockages. Birds, leaves, or even wasp nests can clog the exhaust. A blocked duct makes the fan work harder and reduces efficiency.
Think of cleaning like oil changes for your car. It won’t fix a broken motor, but it keeps the system running smoothly and extends its life.
New homes built after 2020 in New Zealand must meet updated building code standards for ventilation. Most include high-efficiency fans with humidity sensors and heat recovery systems. These are designed to last 15-20 years with minimal maintenance.
If you’ve moved into a newer home and your fan is already acting up before 10 years, check the warranty. Many manufacturers offer 5-10 year warranties on motors. Contact the builder or supplier-they may cover replacement.
Don’t wait for disaster. If your extractor fan is over 10 years old, or shows any of the warning signs listed above, start thinking about replacement. It’s not a luxury-it’s a necessity for your home’s health and safety.
Replace it before the mold spreads. Replace it before the motor burns out. Replace it before you’re paying more in energy bills than the cost of a new unit. A quiet, efficient extractor fan is one of the least noticed but most important appliances in your home.
Most extractor fans last 10 to 15 years, but in high-moisture areas like bathrooms in Wellington, they often need replacing after 7 to 10 years. If the fan is noisy, doesn’t move air, or mold keeps coming back, it’s time to replace it-don’t wait for it to fail completely.
You can repair simple issues like a broken switch or dirty blades. But if the motor is failing, bearings are seized, or the housing is corroded, repair costs will likely exceed half the price of a new fan. In those cases, replacement is the smarter, safer choice.
A failing extractor fan lets moisture and grease build up. This causes mold growth, wood rot, and even structural damage. In kitchens, grease buildup can become a fire hazard. Long-term exposure to mold can also lead to respiratory problems, especially for children and older adults.
Look at the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating. For small bathrooms (under 10m²), choose a fan with 50-80 CFM. For larger bathrooms or kitchens, go for 100-150 CFM. Match the size to your current fan’s rating unless you’re upgrading for better performance.
Yes-if you want convenience and efficiency. Smart fans with humidity sensors turn on automatically when moisture rises and run for a set time after you leave. They use less energy and reduce mold risk. Models with timers or remote controls make daily use easier, especially in busy households.
If you’re comfortable with basic electrical work and have the right tools, yes. Turn off the power, match the duct size, and seal all joints with aluminum tape. But if you’re unsure about wiring or duct routing, hire a licensed electrician. In New Zealand, improper electrical work can void your home insurance.