When you turn on your exhaust fan, a kitchen ventilation device designed to remove smoke, steam, and odors. Also known as extractor fan, it’s one of the most overlooked but essential parts of your home. Most people don’t think about it until it stops working—or starts making a noise that sounds like a dying bird. But the truth is, a well-maintained exhaust fan can last 10 to 15 years. A neglected one? Maybe just 3 to 5. It’s not magic. It’s cleaning, airflow, and motor health.
The extractor fan motor, the core component that spins the blades and moves air is what usually wears out first. Grease, dust, and moisture build up over time, forcing the motor to work harder. That’s why a simple fan motor cleaning, the process of removing grease and debris from the fan’s internal parts every 6 to 12 months can double its life. You don’t need special tools—just a screwdriver, some vinegar, and a few minutes. Skip this, and you’re asking for a noisy, inefficient fan that trips your circuit breaker or smells like fried bacon all day.
It’s not just about the motor. The kitchen ventilation, the entire system that pulls air out of your cooking space includes ducts, filters, and vents. If your duct is clogged or bent, the fan can’t do its job. That means more strain on the motor, more condensation on your walls, and mold waiting to happen. Many homeowners think their fan is broken when it’s really just blocked. Check the outside vent—do you see air coming out? If not, something’s wrong inside.
Age matters too. If your fan is over 10 years old and starts humming louder, taking longer to clear steam, or smells weird even after cleaning, it’s not just getting old—it’s getting risky. Old motors can overheat. Cheap plastic parts crack. Replacement parts for older models are hard to find. At that point, repair isn’t always worth it. A new, energy-efficient fan costs less than you think and pays for itself in lower humidity and fewer mold repairs.
What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from technicians who’ve fixed hundreds of these fans. From step-by-step cleaning instructions to signs your fan is beyond repair, we’ve got the answers that actually help. No fluff. No guesswork. Just what works.
28 October 2025 · 0 Comments
Extractor fans typically last 10 to 15 years, but poor maintenance, grease buildup, and high humidity can cut that in half. Learn the signs it's time to replace yours and how to pick a better one.
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