Kitchen Extractor Fan Repair: Common Problems and How to Fix Them

When your kitchen extractor fan, a vented hood system designed to remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors from your kitchen. Also known as range hood, it keeps your air clean and your walls free from grease buildup. stops working, it’s not just annoying—it’s a health and safety issue. Grease and moisture build up fast without proper ventilation, leading to mold, sticky surfaces, and even fire risks. This isn’t just about comfort. It’s about keeping your kitchen safe and livable.

Most kitchen extractor fans fail for the same reasons: a burnt-out motor, the heart of the fan that spins the blades and moves air, clogged grease filters, or a broken switch. You might hear a hum but no airflow—that’s the motor dying. Or maybe the fan runs but smells like burnt plastic—that’s overheating from dust or grease choking the system. Replacing the motor is often cheaper than buying a whole new unit, and you don’t need to be an electrician to do it. Many models use standard motors you can order online and swap in under an hour.

Other common problems include loose wiring, a stuck speed control, or a fan that won’t turn on because the circuit breaker tripped. Some people think their fan is broken because it’s loud—but that’s often just worn bearings or a dirty blade. Cleaning the filters every month and checking the duct for blockages can double the life of your fan. If you’ve got an older unit, it’s worth checking if the motor is replaceable. Many modern fans are sealed units, but older ones? They’re built to be fixed.

You’ll find posts here that walk you through diagnosing why your fan won’t start, how to test the motor with a multimeter, and exactly which tools you need for a DIY swap. We cover the most common motor types used in Indian kitchens, how to tell if your duct is clogged, and when it’s smarter to replace the whole unit instead of wasting time on repairs. No fluff. No jargon. Just what actually works.

Whether you’re dealing with a silent hood after a power surge or a fan that only works on high speed, the fixes are simpler than you think. Most of these problems don’t need a technician. They need a little time, the right part, and a clear step-by-step guide. Below, you’ll find real fixes from real people who’ve been there—no theory, just results.