Fan Not Working – Common Problems and Simple Solutions

When the hum of your kitchen or bathroom fan cuts out, the first thing you feel is a drop in comfort. A silent fan isn’t just annoying; it can lead to moisture build‑up, mould, and a stuffy house. Below we break down the most common reasons a fan quits and give you clear steps to get it running again – or know when to ring a pro.

Typical Reasons a Fan Stops

Most fans fail for one of three reasons: power, the motor, or the blades. A tripped breaker or a loose plug is the quickest culprit – just check your fuse box and make sure the switch is on. If power is fine, the motor might be overheating or the bearings could be jammed. You’ll often hear a faint buzz before the fan stalls. Lastly, dust and grease can coat the blades, causing them to bind.

Another often‑overlooked issue is the pull‑chain or wall switch. Over time the contacts wear out and lose conductivity. A simple test – toggle the switch with a screwdriver (with the power off) – can tell you if the switch is the problem.

Do‑It‑Yourself Fixes & When to Call Hinckley Repair

If the fan has power but won’t spin, start by turning it off, removing the grill, and giving the blades a good clean. Use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment; avoid water near the motor. Once cleaned, spin the blades by hand. If they move freely, re‑assemble and test. If they still stick, the motor bearings may need lubrication or replacement – a task that often needs a professional.

When you hear a humming sound but see no movement, the motor’s start capacitor could be dead. Swapping a capacitor is inexpensive but requires basic electrical knowledge. If you’re not comfortable handling electrical parts, it’s safer to call us.

Finally, if the fan’s wiring looks scorched, smells burnt, or the switch feels hot, stop immediately. Those are clear signs of a serious electrical fault. Attempting a DIY fix could be dangerous, and a qualified technician should handle the repair.

At Hinckley Home Appliance Repair Services we specialize in extractor fan installation and repair. Our technicians can diagnose motor failures, replace worn‑out switches, and ensure the fan meets safety standards. We’ll get your fan back to work quickly so you avoid moisture problems and keep your home fresh.

Quick recap: check power first, clean the blades, test the switch, and listen for motor sounds. If anything feels off or you’re unsure, give us a call. We’re local, fast, and happy to help you breathe easy again.