Fan Repairs – Simple Solutions for Kitchen & Bathroom Extractor Fans

Got a fan that hums, rattles, or just won’t turn on? You’re not alone. Most homeowners face a faulty extractor fan at some point, and fixing it is often easier than you think. Below you’ll find the most common reasons fans stop working, a few hands‑on fixes, and clear signs when it’s time to call a professional.

Common Reasons Your Fan Stops Working

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

• Clogged filters or ducts. Grease and dust build up fast in kitchen fans. When airflow is blocked, the motor can overheat and shut down.
• Loose wiring. Vibration can loosen connections, causing intermittent power.
• Worn motor bearings. A grinding noise often means the motor bearings need lubrication or replacement.
• Faulty switch or timer. If the fan works sometimes but not always, the switch might be the problem.
• Power supply issues. A tripped breaker or faulty fuse can stop the fan dead in its tracks.

Identifying the symptom saves time. A humming fan that never spins usually points to a motor problem, while a fan that only runs for a few seconds suggests an overload protection kicking in.

DIY Fixes and When to Call an Expert

Most basic issues you can tackle with a screwdriver and a few minutes of effort:

• Clean the filter. Remove the fan cover, take out the filter, soak it in hot soapy water, rinse, and let dry completely before reinstalling.
• Check the wiring. Turn off power at the circuit breaker, remove the fan’s outer cover, and look for loose or corroded wires. Tighten any loose terminals.
• Lubricate the motor. If you hear grinding, add a few drops of light machine oil to the motor shaft (only if the motor has a serviceable bearing).
• Replace the switch. A faulty pull‑chain or wall switch can be swapped out with a similar rated one. Again, always cut power first.
• Reset the overload. Some fans have a reset button on the motor housing. Press it after the fan cools down.

These steps cover about 80% of common fan problems. If the fan still won’t run after you’ve cleaned, checked wiring, and reset the overload, it’s time to get help.

Calling a pro makes sense when you encounter:

• Burnt smells or visible smoke – the motor likely needs replacement.
• Continuous tripping of the breaker – could be a short circuit or an undersized circuit.
• Complex wiring behind a recessed fan – safety first.
• Warranty still active – a certified technician will keep the warranty valid.

Professional repair services can diagnose motor faults, replace sealed motor units, and ensure the fan meets local electrical codes. In Bognor Regis, a specialist will also check for any ventilation compliance issues that could affect building regulations.

Keeping your fan in good shape is all about regular maintenance. Wipe the exterior monthly, clean the filter every 2–3 months, and give the motor a quick visual check once a year. A little effort now stops costly breakdowns later.

So, next time your kitchen or bathroom fan starts acting up, run through this checklist. You might save a few pounds and keep your home fresh. If you hit a wall, don’t hesitate to contact a local repair expert – a quick call can prevent bigger headaches down the road.