Ever had a fan that stopped spinning, a dishwasher that won’t drain, or a fridge that smells stale? Most of those headaches come from something being blocked. The good news is you can often clear the blockage yourself without tearing the whole thing apart.
Fans in the kitchen or bathroom are the first line of defence against moisture and odors. If they’re silent, start by unplugging the unit for safety. Remove the front grille – most models have a few clips or screws. Look for dust, grease, or a loose piece of kitchenware that might be jammed in the blades. A soft brush or a vacuum with a narrow nozzle does the trick. After cleaning, spin the blades by hand to make sure they move freely, then re‑assemble and power the fan back on.
Dishwashers usually get blocked in the spray arm or at the drain pump. First, take out the bottom rack and locate the spray arm. Detach it and rinse it under running water, using a toothpick to clear any food bits from the holes. For the drain, pull out the filter (usually a round plastic piece near the bottom) and clean out food debris. If water still won’t flow, check the hose for kinks and make sure the hose isn’t clogged – a quick flush with a garden hose works well.
Washing machines often jam at the pump or lint filter. Open the pump access panel (check the manual for the exact spot). Have a shallow tray ready to catch water, then unscrew the pump cover. Remove any lint, hair, or small objects. Spin the impeller by hand; it should turn smoothly. Re‑close everything and run a short cycle to test.
Sometimes the blockage is a symptom of a bigger issue. A fan that keeps getting jammed might have a worn bearing, and a dishwasher that still leaks after cleaning the filter could have a cracked hose. In those cases, it’s smart to call a professional. Trying to force a part can cause more damage and could be unsafe.
Every time you work on an appliance, make sure it’s disconnected from power and water. Keep a small toolbox with screwdrivers, pliers, and a flashlight handy – it saves a lot of time. And remember, regular maintenance (like wiping fan blades monthly or clearing dishwasher filters weekly) prevents blockages before they start.
So next time something stops working, check for a blockage first. A few minutes, a bit of cleaning, and you might have the problem solved without a service call. If you’re not comfortable, give us a shout – we’re ready to help you get things running again fast.
28 March 2025 · 0 Comments
Got a blocked kitchen extractor fan? It happens more often than you'd think. If your kitchen is smelling a bit more like last night's dinner than you'd like, it might be time to roll up your sleeves and sort it out. Knowing how to unblock your fan can save you money and a frustrating day spent with a repairman. Clear the air with these practical steps.
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