Extractor Repair: What You Need to Know Before Calling a Pro

If your kitchen or bathroom fan is humming weirdly, blowing weakly, or suddenly stops, you’re probably wondering whether you can fix it yourself or need a specialist. The good news is most extractor problems are simple enough to diagnose and sometimes even repair with basic tools. The bad news? Ignoring a faulty fan can lead to mould, excess moisture and higher energy bills.

Common Issues with Extractor Fans

Here are the three complaints we hear most often:

• Weak airflow. Dust on the blades, a clogged filter, or a blocked duct will make any fan sound like it’s working harder than it is.
• Buzzing or rattling noises. Loose screws, a wobbling motor mount, or worn bearings cause vibrations that get louder over time.
• Fan won’t turn on. This can be a tripped switch, a blown fuse, or a dead motor.

Spotting the cause early saves you time and money. Turn off the fan, remove the cover and give the blades a quick clean. If the fan still feels weak, check the duct for bends or blockages – a short piece of flexible pipe can make a huge difference.

DIY Fixes and When to Call the Experts

Most of the time you can handle basic maintenance yourself. A screwdriver, a soft brush and a vacuum are enough for cleaning and tightening loose parts. If you find a burnt smell or the motor spins but the fan doesn’t move air, it’s safer to call a professional. Replacing a motor involves dealing with wiring, and a mistake could damage the unit or create a fire risk.

Our team at Rugby Appliance Repair Services knows exactly how to test motor continuity, replace worn bearings, and re‑seal ducts to restore performance. Typical repair costs range from £60 for a simple cleaning to £150 for a motor swap, depending on the model.

When you’re unsure, remember these quick rules:

• If the fan is over a year old and you’ve already cleaned it twice, call us.
• If the fan stops completely after a power surge, have a pro check the wiring.
• If you hear grinding or see smoke, turn it off immediately and call an electrician.

Regular servicing – about once a year – keeps your extractor running efficiently and reduces the risk of costly breakdowns. A few minutes of cleaning now can save you a full‑hour repair later.

In Rugby, we offer same‑day appointments, transparent pricing and a guarantee on all parts and labour. Whether it’s a kitchen hood that’s lost its suction or a bathroom fan that’s become a silent mold‑maker, we’ll get it back to peak performance quickly.

Bottom line: start with a quick visual check and a clean, and if the problem persists, don’t gamble with electricity. Give a qualified extractor repair service a call, and you’ll avoid bigger headaches down the line.