Extractor Fan Repair Cost Calculator
Repair Cost Estimator
Find out if it's better to repair or replace your extractor fan based on common issues in Auckland homes.
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If your extractor fan has stopped spinning, is making a weird noise, or just isn’t pulling out the steam and smells from your kitchen anymore, you’re not alone. Thousands of homes in Auckland face this exact problem every year. The good news? You don’t need to replace the whole unit right away. Often, it’s a simple fix - if you call the right person.
Don’t guess - call a specialist
Some people try to fix extractor fans themselves. They unplug it, clean the grease filters, maybe even take the motor out. But unless you’ve worked on these before, you’re risking more than just a broken fan. You could damage the wiring, crack the housing, or worse - create a fire hazard if the motor’s overheating and you don’t know why.
Extractor fans aren’t like changing a lightbulb. They’re connected to ducting, electrical circuits, and sometimes even smart home systems. A professional knows how to test the capacitor, check the bearings, and verify if the motor is still drawing the correct amps. They also know if the ducting is blocked behind the wall - something you can’t see without a camera or a good sense of where the vents run.
What kind of technician do you need?
You might think any electrician can handle it. But not all of them have experience with extractor fans. These units are often installed in tight spaces - above stoves, in bathrooms, or inside ceiling cavities. That means the technician needs:
- Experience with small, high-speed motors (usually 40-100 watts)
- Knowledge of ventilation standards in New Zealand (NZS 3701 for residential exhaust systems)
- Tools to test airflow (anemometers) and electrical load (clamp meters)
- Access to common replacement parts like capacitors, bearings, and impellers
Look for someone who lists “extractor fan repair” or “kitchen ventilation service” on their website or business card. If they only say “appliance repair,” ask them: “Have you replaced a capacitor in a 120mm extractor fan this month?” If they hesitate, keep looking.
Common problems and what they mean
Here’s what’s probably wrong with your fan - based on real repair logs from Auckland homes in 2025:
- No noise at all when you turn it on - Likely a blown capacitor or a dead motor. Capacitors cost under $15 and take 15 minutes to replace. Motors cost $80-$150, depending on the model.
- Humming sound but no spin - Classic capacitor failure. The motor is getting power but can’t start. This is the #1 fix we see.
- Loud grinding or squealing - Worn bearings or a bent shaft. Grease doesn’t help here. The fan needs disassembly and bearing replacement.
- Weak airflow - Could be clogged ducting, a dirty impeller, or a motor losing torque. Ducts in older homes often collect grease and dust over 10+ years.
- Intermittent operation - Usually a faulty switch or loose wiring. Not dangerous, but annoying. Often fixed in under 30 minutes.
Most of these issues don’t need a full replacement. In fact, 7 out of 10 extractor fans we service in Auckland are repairable. Replacing the whole unit can cost $400-$700. A repair? Usually $120-$220, including parts.
What to ask before booking
Before you hand over your keys, ask these three questions:
- “Do you carry common parts for brands like Extract-a-Way, Vents, or Zephyr?” - If they say “I’ll order it,” you’re looking at a 2-3 day delay. Good technicians keep stock of the top 10 models used in NZ homes.
- “Is your quote including duct inspection?” - A fan that works fine but has blocked ducting is just a time bomb. They should check the vent outside or in the roof space.
- “Do you offer a warranty on parts and labour?” - A 3-month warranty is standard. Anything less, and you’re being set up for a repeat visit.
Where to find a reliable technician in Auckland
Don’t just pick the first one on Google. Look for:
- Businesses that have been around since before 2020 - they’ve seen the same models fail over and over.
- Technicians with photos of actual repairs on their site - not stock images.
- Reviews that mention specific brands and fixes - “Fixed my Zephyr in 20 minutes” is better than “Great service!”
Some local services in Auckland that specialize in ventilation include Extract-a-Way Repair Co. and SmartVent Auckland. Both have been servicing homes since 2018 and carry parts for 90% of the fans installed here.
When to replace instead of repair
There are times when repair isn’t worth it:
- Your fan is over 15 years old - parts are discontinued, and efficiency is terrible.
- The housing is cracked or rusted - especially near the duct exit point.
- You’re renovating - this is the perfect time to upgrade to a quieter, smarter model with humidity sensors.
Modern extractor fans are 40% quieter and use 30% less power than models from 2010. If you’re replacing, consider one with a timer or humidity trigger. They’re not much more expensive and save you from forgetting to turn it on.
What to do while waiting
Don’t just leave the fan off. Moisture builds up fast in Auckland kitchens and bathrooms. Use a dehumidifier, open windows when cooking, or run a portable fan nearby. If you notice mould starting to grow around the ceiling or walls, that’s a sign the extractor isn’t doing its job - and you need to act fast.
How much should you expect to pay?
Here’s a realistic breakdown for Auckland in early 2026:
| Service | Cost Range | Time to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Capacitor replacement | $120-$160 | 20-30 minutes |
| Bearing replacement | $150-$200 | 45-60 minutes |
| Motor replacement | $180-$250 | 60-90 minutes |
| Duct cleaning and inspection | $90-$130 | 30-45 minutes |
| Full unit replacement (labour + part) | $400-$700 | 2-3 hours |
Most repairs are done in under an hour. If someone quotes more than $250 for a non-replacement fix, ask for a breakdown. You’re not paying for a new kitchen - just a working fan.
Prevent future breakdowns
Simple habits extend your fan’s life:
- Wash the grease filter every 2 weeks - especially if you cook fried food.
- Run the fan for 10 minutes after cooking - even if you think the smell is gone.
- Don’t use it as a dehumidifier - if you’re drying clothes under it, you’re overloading the motor.
- Check the outside vent once a year - make sure it’s not blocked by leaves or bird nests.
These steps can double the lifespan of your fan. Most units last 10-12 years if maintained. Without care? Maybe 5.
Can I fix my extractor fan myself?
You can clean the filters and check for obvious blockages - that’s safe. But anything involving the motor, wiring, or ducting should be left to a pro. extractor fans use 240V power and often have capacitors that store dangerous charges even when unplugged. A mistake can fry the circuit or start a fire. It’s not worth the risk.
Why does my extractor fan turn on by itself?
If your fan turns on without you touching the switch, it’s likely a humidity sensor or timer malfunction. Many modern fans have built-in sensors that activate when moisture levels rise. If it’s doing this too often, the sensor may be faulty or covered in grease. A technician can recalibrate or replace it. Older models with mechanical timers can also stick - especially if they’re dusty.
Is it cheaper to replace the whole fan or just repair it?
In 80% of cases, repair is cheaper. A new extractor fan unit costs $250-$500 on its own, not including installation. Repairs usually cost under $200 and take less time. Only replace if the unit is over 10 years old, the housing is damaged, or you’re upgrading your kitchen. Otherwise, fix it.
Do I need a licensed electrician for extractor fan repair?
Not always. In New Zealand, if the fan is low-voltage (under 50V) or doesn’t require rewiring, a certified appliance technician can handle it. But if the wiring needs to be altered, or it’s connected to a circuit breaker panel, you’ll need a licensed electrician. Most extractor fans are wired into the lighting circuit - so if you’re unsure, ask the technician if they’re qualified to work on the circuit.
How long does an extractor fan repair take?
Most repairs take under an hour. Simple fixes like capacitor replacement or cleaning the impeller can be done in 20 minutes. If the ducting needs cleaning or the motor is hard to access (like in a ceiling cavity), it could take up to 90 minutes. A full replacement usually takes 2-3 hours, including duct adjustments and testing airflow.
Next steps
If your fan’s not working, don’t wait for the smell to get worse. Book a technician who specializes in extractor fans - not general appliance repair. Ask for a quote over the phone first. Most will give you a fixed price before they even arrive. And if they refuse, walk away. A good technician won’t guess at prices - they know exactly what’s wrong before they touch the tool.
