Tired of your range hood not functioning properly when you need it most? Cooking up a storm in the kitchen only to have smoke linger? Before spending money on a new appliance, try troubleshooting the issues yourself. Many problems that render a range hood dead are actually quite simple to diagnose and fix.
This guide covers the five most common causes of range hood failure and provides easy DIY solutions you can try to get airflow moving again safely and efficiently.
Safety Precautions
When your range hood is dead, it’s important to stay safe while you try to fix it. Follow these tips to avoid getting hurt:
Turning off power at the circuit breaker
Before doing any work on your range hood, you need to turn off the power. This keeps you from getting shocked while you make repairs.
To turn off the power:
- Locate the circuit breaker box. It is usually in the basement or garage.
- Open the box and find the switch labeled for the kitchen or range hood.
- Flip the switch to the “off” position.
Now it’s safe to work on your dead range hood!
Using proper tools and protective equipment
Use the right tools for the job. For example, you may need a screwdriver, wrench, or voltmeter. Wear gloves and eye protection, too. This guards against cuts, shocks, and debris.
Got the proper gear? You’re ready to start troubleshooting!
When to call a professional
Some range hood repairs are best left to the pros. Call an electrician if you:
- Find loose or damaged wires
- Need to replace the motor, fan, or internal parts
- Don’t feel comfortable working with electricity
Common Cause #1: No Power to the Unit
If your range hood suddenly is dead, the most likely culprit is a power issue. Here are some tips on diagnosing and fixing power problems with your range hood:
Checking the power cord and outlet
The first thing to check is whether the range hood is getting power from the electrical outlet. Make sure the power cord is firmly plugged into the outlet. Does it look loose or damaged? Try unplugging it and plugging it back in. Also, check that the outlet is working by plugging in another appliance, like a phone charger.
Inspecting the circuit breaker
Another possibility is that the circuit breaker controlling the outlet has tripped. This is a safety feature that cuts power when there is a surge. Go to your home’s breaker box and locate the breaker controlling the kitchen outlets. Flip the switch to “off” and then back to “on.” This will reset the breaker.
Testing the outlet with another device
If resetting the breaker doesn’t work, the outlet itself may be the problem. Use a multimeter or a simple outlet tester to see if the outlet is providing power. If not, you may need to replace the outlet.
DIY fix: Resetting the circuit breaker or replacing the fuse
In many cases, power issues can be fixed yourself by resetting the breaker or replacing a blown fuse. But if you need to replace the outlet or do any electrical wiring, it’s best to call an electrician to be safe.
Common Cause #2: Faulty Fan Motor
The fan motor is what powers the fan blades that pull smoke and fumes up and out of your kitchen. A failing motor can cause a dead range hood.
Signs of a failing fan motor
How can you tell if the fan motor is the culprit? Here are some common signs:
- Strange noises when turned on – buzzing, humming, squealing
- The fan spins slower and weaker than normal
- The fan doesn’t spin at all
Testing the fan motor with a multimeter
You can use a multimeter to test if the motor is getting power. Set it to test continuity and touch the probes to the motor wiring. If you don’t get a completed circuit, there’s likely a problem with the motor.
DIY fix: Lubricating the motor bearings
Sometimes, you can fix a failing motor by lubricating its internal bearings. Put a few drops of sewing machine oil into the oil ports on each end of the motor. Try to spin the fan by hand to distribute the oil.
When to replace the fan motor
If lubricating doesn’t help, or the motor shows signs of burning out, then replacement is needed. Make sure to turn off the power before removing the old motor. Then, install the new one using the range hood manual.
Common Cause #3: Clogged Filters
The filters in your range hood trap grease, smoke, and other particles before they can spread through your kitchen. But over time, clogged filters can make your range hood work poorly or not at all.
Impact of dirty filters on hood performance
As filters get covered with greasy buildup, they become less effective at trapping contaminants. The range hood motor has to work harder to pull air through the blocked filters, which puts extra strain on the system.
How to remove and inspect filters
Range hood filters are typically mesh or baffle types that slide or pop into place. Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to remove them. Rinse the filters with hot water and check for holes, cracks, or excessive grease clogging.
DIY fix: Cleaning filters in the dishwasher or by hand
Place aluminum mesh filters in the dishwasher to clean. For other reusable filters, soak in hot water and dish soap, then scrub gently to remove gunk. Rinse and allow to air dry before replacing.
When to replace filters
If filters are falling apart or still clogged after cleaning, replacement is needed. Check the manual for the right size and type. Replacing filters every 6-12 months improves range hood function.
Common Cause #4: Malfunctioning Control Panel
The control panel is how you operate your range hood’s fan speeds, lighting, and other features. If it starts acting up, it can make the range hood seem “dead.”
Signs of a faulty control panel
How do you know if the control panel is the culprit? Watch for these signs:
- Pressing buttons has no effect
- Lights/fans turn on randomly or flicker
- The display doesn’t light up
- Burned out buttons
Testing buttons and switches
Try pressing each button and turning each knob to pinpoint problems. Do lights come on when you flip a switch? Does tapping give a temporary response? Note any buttons that stick or don’t work.
DIY fix: Cleaning contacts
Remove the control panel cover and spray contact cleaner onto the back of the buttons and circuit board. This can fix connectivity issues caused by grease buildup.
When to replace the control panel
If cleaning doesn’t help or buttons are physically broken, the best fix is to replace the entire control panel. Make sure to get the correct replacement part for your model.
Common Cause #5: Light Issues
If the lights on your range hood have been dead, it’s usually an easy fix. Here’s how to troubleshoot and repair common range hood lighting problems.
Checking for burnt-out bulbs
First, inspect each bulb to see if the filament is broken. Burnt-out bulbs are the most common cause of range hood light failure.
Inspecting the light socket and wiring
Remove the bulb and examine the socket. Look for cracks, loose wiring, or signs of overheating. Test that electricity is flowing using a multimeter.
DIY fix: Replacing bulbs
For burnt-out incandescent bulbs, simply screw in new bulbs of the same type and wattage. LED and fluorescent bulbs can be more complicated to replace – consult your manual.
Troubleshooting more complex lighting problems
If replacing the bulb doesn’t work, the issue could be a faulty socket, switch, or wiring. This may require replacing internal parts or hiring an electrician.
Also Read Noisy range or exhaust hood: A troubleshooting guide
Preventive Maintenance Tips
Regular care and cleaning can prevent many range hood problems and keep it running smoothly for years. Here are some easy maintenance tips:
Regular cleaning schedule
- Wipe down the hood weekly to remove grease buildup
- Clean filters 1-2 times per month in the dishwasher or with soap and water
- Use a degreaser monthly to dissolve stuck-on gunk
Proper usage habits
- Always turn on the fan when cooking to clear smoke and odors
- Adjust the fan speed to match the intensity of the cooking
- Use the rear burners on your stove when possible
Annual inspections
- Check for leaks, cracks, or damage to the ductwork
- Inspect the fan motor and listen for odd noises
- Test buttons and switches on the control panel
- Replace old filters
A few minutes of prevention can save you from dealing with a dead range hood down the road. Follow this routine care checklist to keep your hood in good working order. Taking the time for maintenance helps ensure your kitchen stays fresh and smoke-free.
Also Read Ducted Range Hood Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Conclusion
A dead range hood can be frustrating. But in many cases, the problem is something simple that you can troubleshoot and fix yourself.
Common issues like loss of power, faulty fan motors, and clogged filters just require basic maintenance and part replacement. For more complex repairs involving wiring and electrical work, it’s best to call in a professional.
With some diligent troubleshooting and DIY repair, you can often get your range hood working again without replacing the whole unit. Just be sure to take proper safety precautions before attempting any electrical repairs.
Regular cleaning and maintenance will also prevent issues down the road. Follow the tips in this article to keep your range hood running smoothly for years. With a little attention and care, your kitchen can stay smoke and odor-free when cooking your favorite meals.