Extractor fan won’t turn on? First check for a tripped circuit breaker. If that isn’t the problem it’s likely that you have either a faulty fan or a faulty switch.
An extractor fan not turning on, whether it’s located in your kitchen or bathroom can be a massive hassle.
This post is here to help you diagnose why your extractor fan won’t turn on. We will discuss three possible reasons for why this is happening and what you can do about fixing it so you can save time and money when it comes to repairs.
Extractor Fan Won’t Turn On? – Reason #1
Tripped RCD Or Circuit Breaker
The first thing you should do is go to your switchboard and check if a circuit breaker has tripped.
When a circuit breaker trips it disconnects the electricity to a particular circuit.
This circuit might be the one controlling the extractor fan, for example.
A circuit breaker does this to protect people and property. It protects people from potential electric shocks, and it protects property from possible fires.
So when a circuit breaker trips, it’s mostly for a good reason.
The extractor fan whether located in the bathroom or kitchen should be on an RCD in a normal household.
Inside the switchboard you will want to identify if an RCD has tripped.
To find an RCD it should be labelled ‘RCD’ or ‘Residual Current Device’.
They are also typically ‘fatter’ than other circuit breakers. Usually double the size – but not necessarily so.
If you find a tripped RCD, it will be in the down position. To reset the RCD, press it into the up position.
If this resolves your problem, then it’s a good idea to work out why the circuit breaker tripped.
Common reasons why the circuit breaker tripped might include a blown light bulb, light fitting, faulty power socket or anything which might be on the same RCD.
In this case, it’ll be a good idea to get in touch with a registered electrician to find out exactly what caused it, especially if the RCD trips again again.
Extractor Fan Won’t Turn On? – Reason #2
Faulty Switch
The next possible reason is a faulty switch. The switch where the extractor fan is controlled from can become fatigued over time and cause issues like stuck rocker switches. The switch can even become hot.
The first thing you should do is look at the physical condition of the switch which controls the extractor fan.
If you see signs of a failing switch then this might be the cause of the problem and the switch should be replaced as soon as possible.
Some symptoms include:
- Wear and tear on the rocker light switch.
- Switch is difficult to press.
- Sparks when you press the light switch.
- Evidence of soot or ash on or around the light switch mechanism.
- Burnt or melted areas of the light switch.
There might also be loose or broken wires at the switch controlling the extractor fan. This could be why there is no power at the extractor fan, despite pressing the switch.
If you believe that a faulty switch is the cause then it is still a good idea to get in touch with a registered electrician to confirm. Never do work you are not experienced or legally qualified to do.
Extractor Fan Won’t Turn On? – Reason #3
Faulty Fan
The last reason is a faulty fan. As fans are mass produced for cheap they are prone to faults and degradation over time.
The mechanical parts of the fan (which might be plastic) can break off and cause the fan to run inefficiently until it finally gives out.
When it finally gives out it might produce a dead short which means the fan is faulty and needs to be replaced.
If you suspect a faulty fan it’s good to get in touch with whoever installed it because it might be still under warranty.
Conclusion
Extractor fan won’t turn on? It’s most likely caused by a tripped breaker, a faulty switch, or a faulty fan. If it’s caused by a tripped breaker, you might be able to resolve the issue without calling the electrician. If it’s caused by a faulty light switch or fan, then it is a good idea to talk to a registered electrician to ensure the repairs are done safely.
Next Steps
- If you know someone with an extractor fan which won’t turn on, please share this post.
- If you’d like to know how to save money when booking electricians, then check out this link.