Fan Repair Guide: How to Fix Your Extractor and Ventilation Fans

Fans that stop working can ruin the comfort of any room. Whether it’s a bathroom extractor or a kitchen ventilation fan, most issues are fixable without a pricey callout. Below you’ll find the most common problems, simple DIY steps, and clear signs when you need a professional.

Why Your Fan Might Be Stopping

Four things usually cause a fan to quit:

• Electrical connection loose – wires can shake loose over time.
• Motor burnout – a humming sound that turns into silence.
• Blocked blades or duct – dust, lint, or grease builds up and stalls the motor.
• Faulty switch or timer – you flip the switch and nothing happens.

Identify which of these fits your situation first. It saves you from unnecessary part replacements.

Step‑by‑Step DIY Repair

1. Safety first. Turn off the circuit breaker that controls the fan. Even if the fan is unplugged, the wiring could still be live.

2. Remove the cover. Most extractor fans have a grille held by clips or screws. Pop it off and clean any visible dust with a vacuum brush.

3. Check the motor. Spin the motor shaft by hand. If it feels gritty or sticks, spray a little light machine oil and work it gently. A smooth spin usually means the motor itself is okay.

4. Inspect wiring. Look for loose terminals or burnt marks. Tighten any loose screws and replace frayed wires with the same gauge copper.

5. Test the switch. Swap the fan’s wall switch with another that you know works. If the fan runs, the switch was the culprit.

6. Reassemble and power up. Put the grille back, restore the breaker, and give the fan a test run. Listen for any strange noises – those could indicate a deeper motor issue.

If the fan still refuses to run after these steps, the motor is likely dead and should be replaced, or you might need a qualified electrician.

Remember, most fans are designed for easy access. A quick clean every six months prevents the buildup that forces you into a repair.

When you’re unsure about handling electricity, call a local pro. Taunton Appliance Repair Solutions offers fast, reliable fan repairs and can order the right motor if needed.

Keeping your extractor and ventilation fans humming not only improves air quality but also saves energy. A well‑functioning fan uses less power than a struggling one, so regular maintenance pays off in lower bills.

Got a stubborn fan that won’t budge? Try the checklist above, and if it still won’t work, reach out for expert help. Quick fixes now mean you won’t have to endure a stuffy bathroom or a kitchen full of steam later.