Extractor Fans: What They Do and How to Keep Them Working

Ever wonder why your kitchen still smells like fried food after cooking? Or why the bathroom gets steamy even with the fan on? That’s the job of an extractor fan – it pulls out moisture, odors, and smoke so your home stays fresh. When they work right, you barely notice them. When they don’t, the whole house suffers.

Extractor fans are simple devices: a motor drives a blade that pushes air out through a vent. They’re installed in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and sometimes basements. The key to a happy home is keeping that airflow clean and unobstructed. A little upkeep can add years to the fan’s life and save you from expensive repairs.

Why Clean Your Extractor Fan?

Grease, dust, and lint love to pile up on the fan blades and the filter. In a kitchen, cooking fumes coat the blades with a greasy film that slows the motor. In a bathroom, hair and soap scum can clog the vent. When the fan has to work harder, the motor heats up and can burn out faster.

Cleaning is quick and cheap. Most fans have a removable filter – pop it out, soak it in warm soapy water, scrub with a soft brush, rinse, and dry. If the fan housing is reachable, wipe the blades with a damp cloth. Do this every 2‑3 months in the kitchen and once a month in the bathroom if it’s used a lot.

Don’t forget the vent outside. A bird’s nest or leaves can block the duct, making the fan roar useless. A simple check from the outside, or a quick push with a flexible brush, keeps the path clear.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Fan won’t turn on. First, make sure the switch is on and the circuit breaker isn’t tripped. If the fan still stays silent, the motor may have burned out or the wiring could be loose. For most homeowners, it’s safer to call a qualified engineer – especially because we deal with gas‑related appliances.

It’s noisy. A rattling sound usually means something is loose or the fan blade is dirty. Tighten any visible screws and clean the blades. If the noise persists, the motor bearings may be wearing out and need replacement.

It runs but doesn’t pull air. Check the vent grille outside – it might be blocked. Also, inspect the duct for bends or crushes that restrict flow. If the duct looks fine, the motor could be losing power; a professional can test the voltage.

Regular checks keep these headaches from turning into costly replacements. If you notice any of these signs, act fast. A small repair now is cheaper than swapping the whole unit later.

In short, extractor fans are low‑maintenance heroes when you give them a little love. Clean the filter, clear the vent, and listen for odd noises. When in doubt, a qualified gas engineer can diagnose and fix the issue safely. Keep your kitchen fresh and your bathroom dry – your fans will thank you with years of reliable service.