Kitchen Extractor Fan Replacement: When to Replace and What to Know

When your kitchen extractor fan, a device that pulls smoke, steam, and odors out of your cooking area. Also known as range hood fan, it's a quiet hero in your kitchen—until it stops working. If it’s making grinding noises, barely moving air, or won’t turn on at all, replacement is often smarter than repair. Most extractor fans last 8 to 12 years, but heavy use, grease buildup, or cheap parts can cut that in half. Replacing it isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety. Without proper ventilation, moisture builds up, leading to mold, and cooking fumes linger, affecting air quality and even your health.

Before you buy a new one, ask yourself: Is the motor dead, or is it just the switch or wiring? Many times, a faulty extractor fan motor, the core component that spins the blades and moves air is the real culprit. If the motor’s seized or overheating, replacement is your only option. But if it’s a loose wire, a clogged filter, or a broken capacitor, a quick fix might save you £150 or more. Still, if your fan is over 8 years old, even a successful repair won’t bring back its original efficiency. Newer models use less energy, run quieter, and come with better grease traps. A modern extractor fan with a high CFM rating can clear your kitchen in under a minute, while an old one might struggle to keep up with a simple boil.

Don’t confuse an extractor fan with a basic ventilation fan, a general term for any fan that moves air indoors, often used in bathrooms or small rooms. Kitchen extractor fans are built tougher—they handle grease, heat, and constant use. They’re also required by building regulations in new UK homes to vent to the outside, not just recirculate air. If yours recirculates, it’s outdated. Replacing it with a ducted model not only improves performance but can also boost your home’s value. And if you’re replacing it yourself, make sure the new unit matches your existing duct size and power rating. A mismatch means poor airflow, noise, or even fire risk.

There’s no magic number for when to replace your fan—but if you’re cleaning the filter every week, still smelling dinner hours later, or hearing rattles from the ceiling, it’s time. You don’t need a fancy smart hood to get good results. Just a solid, well-installed unit that does its job without drama. Below, you’ll find real-world guides on why extractors fail, how to tell if yours is beyond saving, and what to look for when buying a replacement. No fluff. Just what works in UK kitchens.