Extractor Fan Repair Cost Estimator
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Important Safety Note: DIY attempts on motors or electrical components can cause electric shock, fire, or void insurance. Always consult a professional.
If your extractor fan is making a grinding noise, spinning slowly, or just won’t turn on at all, you’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners in Adelaide and across Australia face this exact problem every year. The good news? You don’t need to replace the whole kitchen. You just need to know who to call - and when to call them.
What’s Actually Broken?
Before you pick up the phone, take a quick look at what’s going on. Most extractor fan failures fall into three categories:- Motor failure: The fan makes a buzzing sound but doesn’t spin. This usually means the motor’s burnt out.
- Blade or bearing wear: The fan turns but wobbles or screeches. Dust buildup, old grease, or worn bearings are the usual suspects.
- Electrical issues: No power at all. Could be a blown fuse, faulty switch, or loose wiring behind the wall.
Most of these aren’t DIY fixes. You can clean the grease filter yourself - that’s easy. But if the motor’s dead or the wiring’s faulty, you’re risking fire, electric shock, or more damage if you try to fix it yourself.
Who Can Fix It?
You need someone who’s trained for extractor fans - not just any handyman. Here’s who to look for:- Appliance repair technicians: These are your best bet. They specialize in household appliances, including range hoods and extractor fans. They carry common replacement parts like motors, capacitors, and bearings.
- Electricians: Only call an electrician if you suspect wiring problems - a tripped circuit, faulty switch, or no power reaching the unit. They don’t usually fix the fan mechanism itself.
- Plumbers or HVAC techs: Avoid these unless your fan connects to a duct system that runs through the roof or wall. Most extractor fans are standalone units and don’t involve plumbing or air conditioning.
Look for technicians who list extractor fan repair as a service. Many just say “kitchen appliance repair,” but the best ones will mention specific brands like Extract-Air, Elica, or Breezart.
What to Ask Before You Book
Not all repair services are equal. Here’s what to ask before they show up:- Do you carry replacement parts for my brand? Common brands in Australia include Vent-A-Hood, Rangaire, and Broan. If they say “we order them in,” that’s a red flag - it means you’ll wait days, maybe weeks.
- Is there a call-out fee? And is it waived if I book the repair? Some companies charge $80 just to show up. Others include it in the final price. Always ask upfront.
- Do you offer a warranty on parts and labour? A good technician will offer at least 6 months on parts and 30 days on labour. If they don’t, walk away.
- Can you show me the old part after replacement? This isn’t about distrust - it’s about proof. A worn bearing or melted capacitor tells you the job was done right.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
In Adelaide, prices for extractor fan repair in 2026 are pretty consistent:- Basic service call (diagnosis only): $65-$95
- Motor replacement: $180-$280 (includes labour and part)
- Bearing or blade repair: $120-$180
- Complete unit replacement: $350-$700 (if repair isn’t cost-effective)
Most repairs cost under $250. If someone quotes you over $400 without seeing the unit, get a second opinion. Sometimes, the fan’s just dirty - and cleaning it costs $80.
When to Replace Instead of Repair
Not every fan is worth fixing. Here’s when to replace:- Your fan is over 12 years old.
- It’s a cheap no-name brand with no parts available.
- You’re renovating the kitchen anyway.
- The noise is so bad it’s affecting your sleep or concentration.
Modern extractor fans are quieter, more energy-efficient, and come with smart features like humidity sensors and automatic timers. If you’re replacing, look for models with IPX4 water resistance (for steam) and low dB ratings (under 50 dB is ideal).
What Happens If You Ignore It?
A broken extractor fan isn’t just annoying - it’s dangerous. Without proper ventilation:- Moisture builds up, leading to mold on walls and ceilings.
- Cooking grease coats your kitchen surfaces and ducts - a fire hazard.
- Odors linger, making your home smell like last night’s fried fish.
- Humidity can damage cabinetry and flooring over time.
One homeowner in Norwood had $3,200 in mold remediation costs after ignoring a quiet, failing fan for 18 months. The fix? $220 for a new fan and a $50 service call.
Where to Find a Reliable Technician
Start with trusted sources:- Appliance repair directories: Sites like Appliance Repair Directory Australia list certified techs with verified reviews.
- Local Facebook groups: Adelaide Home Repairs or South Adelaide Community Network often have trusted recommendations.
- Hardware stores: Bunnings and Mitre 10 often have lists of local repair partners.
- Word of mouth: Ask your plumber, electrician, or builder - they work with repair techs regularly.
Avoid services that only show up on Google Ads with no reviews. Real technicians have Google Business profiles with photos of their vans, real customer photos, and recent posts.
Quick Checklist Before You Call
Before you dial:- Turn off power at the circuit breaker - safety first.
- Remove the grease filter and clean it - sometimes that’s all it needs.
- Check if the fan switch is working - flip it on and off 5 times.
- Write down the brand and model number (usually on a sticker inside the housing).
- Have your postcode ready - most services charge extra for rural areas.
If the fan still doesn’t work after that, it’s time to call a pro. Don’t wait until the smell or the mold does the talking.
Can I fix my extractor fan myself?
You can clean the grease filter and check for loose screws, but anything involving the motor, wiring, or internal components should be left to a professional. DIY attempts on motors or electrical parts can lead to electric shock, fire, or voiding your home insurance if damage occurs.
How long does an extractor fan repair take?
Most repairs take 30 to 60 minutes. Replacing a motor usually takes under an hour. If the fan is built into cabinetry or requires duct access, it might take up to 90 minutes. A simple cleaning or switch replacement can be done in 15 minutes.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace an extractor fan?
Repair is almost always cheaper - unless the unit is over 10 years old or from a defunct brand. A motor replacement costs about $200, while a new fan starts at $350. If your fan is noisy, outdated, or doesn’t match your kitchen, replacing it might be worth the upgrade.
Do I need a permit to replace my extractor fan?
No, you don’t need a permit to replace an extractor fan in a residential kitchen in South Australia, as long as it’s not connected to a major duct system or exhausts through the roof. However, if you’re changing the vent location or installing a more powerful unit, you may need to check with your local council.
Why does my extractor fan turn on by itself?
This usually means the humidity sensor is faulty or too sensitive. Some modern fans turn on automatically when moisture levels rise. If it’s turning on when there’s no steam, the sensor needs replacing. It’s a simple fix - usually under $100.
