Range Hood Life Expectancy: How Long Should Yours Last?

That annoying grease smell in your kitchen? It might be your range hood crying for help. You’re not alone—most range hoods (which are basically fancy extractor fans) don’t last forever. But don’t panic. We’ll cut through the guesswork and tell you exactly how long yours should last, plus when to call a pro instead of trying to fix it yourself.

How Long Do Range Hoods Actually Last?

Most range hoods last 10 to 15 years if you keep them clean and maintain them right. But here’s the thing: hard water in Northampton? It’s a sneaky villain. It leaves mineral gunk on filters and motors, making them wear out faster. If you’ve had yours for over 10 years and it’s making weird noises or struggling to suck up smoke, it’s probably time to think about replacing it. Don’t wait until it’s coughing grease everywhere—your kitchen (and your lungs) will thank you.

When to Call a Pro Instead of Fixing It Yourself

Here’s the no-nonsense truth: range hoods have wiring, motors, and vents. If it’s not working right, don’t try to DIY it unless you’re a certified electrician. If your range hood’s motor sounds like a dying bee, the light won’t turn on, or it’s leaking grease, it’s not a quick fix. Trying to tinker with the electrical parts could blow a fuse—or worse. Our Northampton team sees this all the time: homeowners wasting hours on YouTube fixes that just make things worse. Instead, call us. We’ll check it in under an hour, tell you if it’s worth fixing or needs replacing, and get you back to cooking without the stink.

Pro tip: Clean the filters monthly. A clogged filter makes the motor work twice as hard, killing your range hood’s lifespan faster. And if your hood’s been around since the 90s? Yeah, it’s time to upgrade. Newer models are quieter, more energy-efficient, and actually pull smoke out of your kitchen (not just around it). Plus, we offer affordable replacement options tailored to Northampton homes. No hidden fees, no stress. Just a working range hood that doesn’t smell like last night’s burnt dinner.

Bottom line: Don’t wait for your range hood to give up completely. Watch for the signs—weak suction, strange noises, grease buildup—and act fast. Your kitchen (and your sanity) will last longer that way. Need help? We’re just a call away. Let’s get your range hood back in action before the next meal.