DIY Extractor Fan Guide: Install, Fix & Maintain Your Kitchen Fan

Got a kitchen that steams up faster than you can cook? A good extractor fan can keep the air fresh, but buying a new one every few years gets pricey. The good news? You can install, clean and even repair most fans yourself with a few tools and a bit of know‑how.

How to Install a Kitchen Extractor Fan

First, turn off the electricity at the breaker – safety comes first. Measure the cut‑out size in your cupboard or wall and compare it to the fan’s dimensions. Most fans come with a mounting bracket; line it up, drill pilot holes, and secure it with screws.

Next, run the electrical cable. If the fan is hard‑wired, strip the wires, connect live, neutral and earth to the matching colors in the junction box, and tighten the terminals. For a plug‑in model, simply route the cable to a nearby socket and use a cable clip to keep it tidy.

Finally, attach the ducting. Use a short, rigid pipe for the shortest route to the outside vent, and seal any gaps with foil tape. A tight seal prevents back‑drafts and keeps the fan efficient. Switch the power back on and test the fan – you should hear a steady hum and feel air moving out.

Keeping Your Fan Running Smoothly

Filters are the most common weak spot. Grease builds up quickly, reducing airflow and making the motor work harder. Clean metal or charcoal filters every 2‑3 months by soaking them in warm soapy water, then rinsing and drying before reinstalling.

If the fan sputters or stops, check the motor for debris. Unplug the unit, remove the fan cover, and gently brush away dust from the blades and motor housing. A quick spin test will tell you if the bearings are still smooth.

Sometimes the fan won’t turn on at all. Besides the obvious power issue, look for a tripped circuit breaker or a loose wire connection. If the wiring looks secure, the motor may have burnt out – in that case, replacing the motor is often cheaper than buying a whole new fan.

When you’ve tried cleaning, tightened connections, and the fan still misbehaves, it’s time to call a professional. A certified gas engineer can safely check the electrical work, especially if the fan is part of a larger ventilation system linked to a boiler or heating unit.

By following these steps, you’ll extend your fan’s life, save money, and keep your kitchen smelling fresh. A little DIY effort goes a long way – and you’ll know exactly what’s happening every time you hear that familiar whir.