Fan Troubleshooting: Simple Fixes for Kitchen and Bathroom Extractor Fans

If your extractor fan has stopped spinning, buzzes loudly, or just doesn’t pull air like before, you’re not alone. Most homeowners face a fan issue at some point, and many of the fixes are easy enough to do yourself. In this guide we’ll walk through the most common problems, the tools you need, and step‑by‑step actions that get your fan back in shape without a pricey call‑out.

Common Reasons Why Fans Stop Working

First, figure out what’s actually wrong. The usual suspects are:

• Power loss: A tripped breaker or a loose wire can cut power instantly.
• Clogged filters or ducts: Grease, dust, and lint build up over time, choking the airflow.
• Motor failure: Motors wear out, especially if they get hot often.
• Loose or broken blades: Vibration can loosen the fan blade screws, causing wobble or silence.
• Switch or capacitor issues: Faulty wall switches or bad capacitors can keep a fan from starting.

Knowing which symptom you see helps you skip unnecessary steps and focus on the real cause.

Step‑by‑Step Fixes You Can Do Today

1. Check the power. Flip the breaker back on and test the wall switch. If the fan still won’t run, use a multimeter or a simple lamp on the same outlet to confirm there’s voltage.

2. Clean the filter. Most extractor fans have a removable metal or charcoal filter. Take it out, soak it in warm soapy water, scrub gently, rinse, and let it dry completely before reinstalling.

3. Clear the duct. Disconnect the duct from the fan (you’ll need a screwdriver). Look inside for debris and use a flexible brush or a vacuum hose to pull it out. Reattach securely.

4. Tighten the blades. Remove the fan cover, locate the blade screws, and tighten them with a screwdriver. While you’re there, give the blades a quick wipe with a damp cloth.

5. Test the motor. If the fan still doesn’t run, the motor may be seized. Gently spin the blades by hand—if they resist, you probably need a new motor. Most retailers sell a replacement motor for under £30, and swapping it is usually just a few minutes.

6. Inspect the switch and capacitor. A faulty switch will feel loose or not click. Replacing it is cheap and simple. Capacitors are a bit trickier; if you’re not comfortable handling them, it’s safer to call a pro.

After each step, restore power and see if the fan works. Often, cleaning the filter and duct clears up 80% of issues.

If you’ve tried everything and the fan still refuses to cooperate, it’s time to call a qualified technician. A professional can diagnose hidden wiring problems, replace sealed motors, and ensure everything meets safety standards.

Keeping your fan healthy is mostly about regular maintenance. A quick filter clean every month and a brief duct check twice a year will keep the airflow strong and the noise low. With these easy habits, you’ll avoid most breakdowns and enjoy a fresh kitchen or bathroom year after year.