Ventilation Upkeep: Simple Tips to Keep Your Home Fresh

Good airflow does more than stop smells – it stops mold, keeps appliances cool, and helps your heating and cooling work better. Most Bognor Regis homes rely on kitchen and bathroom extractor fans, so knowing how to look after them saves you time, money, and a lot of hassle.

When to Clean Your Fan

Dust and grease love the tiny blades inside an extractor fan. If you hear a whirring noise that sounds weak or notice a lingering steam smell, it’s time to clean. Turn off the power, remove the front grille, and use a soft brush or a vacuum on low suction to clear the buildup. A damp cloth with mild detergent wipes away stubborn grime – just avoid soaking any electrical parts.

Most experts recommend a quick visual check every three months and a deeper clean twice a year. In a busy kitchen or a bathroom that gets a lot of use, you might need to clean more often. The effort is tiny compared with the cost of a professional repair.

How Often to Replace Your Extractor Fan

Fans don’t last forever. A well‑maintained unit typically runs 5‑7 years, but heavy‑duty models can stretch to 10 years. Look for signs like rattling, reduced airflow, or the motor staying on after the switch is off. If cleaning doesn’t fix the problem, the motor or bearings are likely worn out.

Replacing a fan is a straightforward DIY job for most homeowners. You’ll need a screwdriver, the right size replacement fan, and a few minutes of time. Make sure the new fan matches the old one’s voltage and size – most kitchen fans are 120 mm or 150 mm, while bathroom fans often run on a lower voltage for safety.

When you buy a new fan, choose one with a quiet rating (measured in sones) and an easy‑clean grille. Some models even have a built‑in timer, which helps save energy by turning off automatically after a set period.

Remember, regular maintenance not only keeps the air fresh but also protects other appliances. A clogged kitchen fan can force your oven or hob to overheat, and a struggling bathroom fan can let moisture damage paint or plaster.

So set a reminder on your phone, grab a brush, and give your fans a quick check every few months. A little effort now means you’ll avoid noisy, smelly, or broken fans later – and your home will stay comfortable all year round.

Essential Maintenance: Servicing Your Extractor Fan

Essential Maintenance: Servicing Your Extractor Fan

Routine maintenance of extractor fans is crucial to maintaining indoor air quality and ensuring the efficient operation of these ventilation systems. This article explores why servicing extractor fans is important, providing insight into potential problems that may arise if overlooked. Learn how regular upkeep can prevent costly repairs and improve the lifespan of your equipment. Discover practical tips and a step-by-step guide on how to ensure your extractor fan is operating at its best. Keep your home fresh and healthy by understanding the significance of extractor fan servicing.

Recent Posts

Consequences of Ignoring Water Heater Maintenance
Jan, 22 2025
Consequences of Ignoring Water Heater Maintenance

Neglecting to flush your water heater can lead to a host of issues, from inefficiency to full-blown malfunctions. Sediment buildup can decrease heating efficiency and even cause damage over time. This article explores what happens if you never flush your water heater, why regular maintenance is crucial, and how you can perform these tasks. Dive into practical advice and tips for maintaining a healthy water heating system.

Most Expensive Washing Machine Part to Replace: Cost Breakdown, Repair vs Replace
Sep, 16 2025
Most Expensive Washing Machine Part to Replace: Cost Breakdown, Repair vs Replace

Front-load tub/drum assemblies and top-load transmissions are usually the priciest washer repairs. See real costs, how to diagnose, and when to fix or replace.

When to Replace — Not Repair — Your Dryer: Essential Cost and Safety Signs
Jul, 4 2025
When to Replace — Not Repair — Your Dryer: Essential Cost and Safety Signs

Find out when repairing your dryer isn’t the smart move. Learn real signs, safety warnings, and how to choose between fixing and just getting a new one.

Boiler Repair Cost Guide: What to Expect in 2025
Oct, 18 2025
Boiler Repair Cost Guide: What to Expect in 2025

Find out how much boiler repair costs in 2025, what factors affect the price, typical price ranges, and tips to get fair quotes and save money.

Why Aren’t My Gas Appliances Working? Common Causes & Fixes
Oct, 17 2025
Why Aren’t My Gas Appliances Working? Common Causes & Fixes

Learn why all your gas appliances might stop working, how to safely troubleshoot common issues, and when to call a Gas Safe engineer.

© 2025. All rights reserved.