Do I Need an Electrician to Replace an Extractor Fan?

Replacing an extractor fan sounds simple-pull out the old one, plug in the new one, and done. But if you’ve ever stared at a tangled mess of wires behind a bathroom fan, you know it’s not always that easy. So, do you really need an electrician? The short answer: yes, unless you’re certain about what you’re doing and your local rules let you do it yourself.

Why an electrician is usually the right choice

In New Zealand, any electrical work that involves wiring into your home’s main circuit-like replacing an extractor fan-is legally considered restricted work. That means it must be done by a licensed electrician. This isn’t just bureaucracy; it’s about safety. Extractor fans are connected to live circuits, often sharing a switch with lights or heaters. One wrong connection can trip breakers, overload circuits, or worse-start a fire.

Most extractor fans run on 240V, the same as your oven or kettle. Even if the fan looks small, the current it draws can be enough to cause serious harm if mishandled. I’ve seen homes where someone tried to swap a fan using a screwdriver and tape, then ended up with a blown fuse box and a damp ceiling because the fan stopped working. That’s not a fix-it’s a waiting room for more expensive damage.

When you might get away with DIY

There’s one exception: if your extractor fan is plugged into a standard wall socket, like a portable bathroom fan or a model designed for plug-in use. Those are rare, but they exist. If the fan has a plug and you can unplug it without touching any wires behind the wall, you’re probably fine. Just make sure the new fan is the same voltage and wattage as the old one.

But if the fan is wired directly into the ceiling or wall-no plug, just screws holding wires together-you’re in restricted work territory. Even if you’ve rewired a lamp before, that doesn’t count. Household wiring operates at higher currents, and mistakes here can affect your whole house’s electrical system.

What an electrician actually does

A licensed electrician doesn’t just swap the fan. They check the whole setup:

• They test the circuit to make sure it’s not overloaded
• They verify the wiring matches current NZ electrical standards (AS/NZS 3000)
• They ensure the fan is properly earthed
• They confirm the ducting is sealed and vents to the outside-not into the roof cavity
• They install a suitable switch, often with a timer or humidity sensor

They also know how to handle older homes. In Dunedin, a lot of houses built in the 70s and 80s have aluminium wiring or outdated fuse boxes. An electrician can spot those red flags and advise if you need an upgrade before installing the new fan.

Cost vs. risk

A professional extractor fan replacement in New Zealand typically costs between $250 and $450, depending on complexity. That includes the fan, materials, and labour. It might seem steep, but compare it to the cost of:

• Water damage from a fan that doesn’t work ($1,000+ in repairs)
• Electrical fire insurance claim (higher premiums, or denied coverage)
• Getting caught by an inspector during a home sale (you’ll have to fix it anyway)

Most insurance policies won’t cover damage from unlicensed electrical work. If you do it yourself and something goes wrong, you’re on your own.

What happens if you skip the electrician?

You might get away with it for years. But here’s what can go wrong:

• The fan doesn’t turn on because the neutral wire is swapped
• The circuit breaker trips every time you turn on the bathroom light
• Moisture builds up in the ceiling because the fan isn’t venting properly
• You fail a building inspection when selling your home
• You’re fined by the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB)

In 2024, EWRB fined 17 homeowners in Otago for unlicensed electrical work. One case involved a bathroom fan installed without a proper earth connection. The homeowner didn’t know it was illegal-until the new owner found out during a pre-purchase inspection.

How to choose the right electrician

Not all electricians are the same. Look for:

• Current EWRB registration (ask for their licence number)
• Experience with extractor fans and bathroom ventilation
• Warranty on labour and parts
• Clear quote before starting work

Ask if they’ll provide a Certificate of Compliance (CoC). That’s a legal document proving the work meets safety standards. You’ll need it if you ever sell the house.

What to do if you’re unsure

If you’re not sure whether your fan is wired or plugged in, take a photo of the back of the unit. Look for:

• Wires connected with wire nuts or terminal blocks → needs an electrician
• A plug on the back, with no screws holding wires → might be DIY

If you’re still stuck, call a licensed electrician for a free quote. Most will give you a quick assessment over the phone. Don’t guess-get it confirmed.

What to look for in a new extractor fan

When replacing, don’t just grab the cheapest one. Match these specs:

• CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): Aim for 15-20 CFM per square metre of bathroom space
• Noise level: Under 40 dB is quiet enough for comfort
• IP rating: At least IPX4 for splash resistance in bathrooms
• Timer or humidity sensor: These automatically run the fan after you leave the room

Brands like Vent-Axia, Zephyr, and extractors from Breezart are common in New Zealand and meet local standards.

Final thought

Replacing an extractor fan isn’t like changing a lightbulb. It’s a small job with big consequences if done wrong. In New Zealand, the law is clear: if it’s wired in, it needs a licensed electrician. The cost of hiring one is small compared to the cost of mistakes.

Don’t risk your safety, your home, or your wallet. Get it done right the first time.