Repair with your own hands – the hood does not pull or blows in the opposite direction

A kitchen hood is one of the primary components in a kitchen. It serves to eliminate unpleasant odors, grease, and vapors that are released during the cooking process. The efficiency and effectiveness of the hood are crucial for ensuring the comfort and well-being of the individuals in the kitchen, as well as maintaining the cleanliness of the surrounding objects. However, what should be done in the event of a malfunction? The first step is to identify the root cause of the issue.

Why the extractor hood in the kitchen does not pull out the air

Every home appliance is prone to malfunctions, but it is possible to identify and resolve the underlying issues for the proper functioning of the device even at home.

Here are different types of malfunctions and suggested methods to address them:

1. Improper usage of the appliance. The hood should only be turned off after the burners have cooled down, as hot air can cause damage. The appliance should be equipped with filters and grease traps that need to be replaced and cleaned regularly. Additionally, the metal plates should be cleaned regularly to remove grease buildup. Flammable fats can create a fire hazard in your home.
2. Reasons why the kitchen extractor hood doesn’t extract air effectively.
3. Steps to repair the kitchen hood on your own:
4. The lighting is not functioning properly
5. The hood has ceased to function and will not turn on
6. Inadequate airflow when the hood is operating
7. The control panel is experiencing a malfunction
8. Unable to change speeds on the hood



Blocked filter due to grease buildup

DIY Guide: Fixing a Kitchen Hood



If your kitchen hood has been working fine for a few years and suddenly stops functioning, there’s no need to panic. However, if it’s relatively new and hasn’t been in use for a year, it’s too early to worry. Many common problems can be easily repaired at home without the need for a professional or expensive service. The most common types of problems include:

Lighting does not work

• The lightbulb has malfunctioned. It’s a simple task to replace it, and it can be easily done by any homeowner.
• The switch to activate the backlight is not functioning properly. Inspecting the switch’s contacts may resolve the issue.



The hood is not functioning properly and does not turn on.

Possible Reasons for the Issue:

• There may be no electricity in the mains. Please check if the cable, plug, or socket is damaged and ensure that there is voltage in the socket and that the supply circuit and control panel are intact. If the cable is damaged, you should be able to see physical damage and smell an odor.
• The switch may be defective. To troubleshoot, use a multimeter to test the switch and, if necessary, replace it.
• The fuse may be burned. Frequently, these elements burn out with voltage fluctuations, disabling the entire system.
• The motor may be broken. Overheating is a common cause of motor failure. Unfortunately, this type of breakdown usually cannot be repaired independently. You will need to either take the unit to a service center or purchase a new one.
• In order to avoid overheating, it is crucial to ensure that the grease trap plates are kept clean, regularly cleaned, and have the filters changed in a timely manner.



Insufficient draught when the hood is working

• To begin with, it is important to clean or replace the filters in order to prevent loss of airflow due to grease buildup. If the filter is clogged, the efficiency of the appliance will be greatly diminished.
• Take apart the duct pipe and ensure that there is no debris or grease present.
• Test the airflow in the main ventilation duct using a piece of paper or a flame.
• The issue is likely caused by a faulty fan with broken blades. The best solution is to replace the damaged part.



Verifying the air clearance

Control panel malfunction

If the buttons become misshapen or begin to partially detach, it is likely due to a burnt-out contact. You could attempt to fix this by resoldering the circuit or alternatively, you may need to replace the entire button module.

Impossibility to switch speeds

• The most common cause is the frequent mechanical impact that leads to a button or slide switch getting loose. While you can try to disassemble and clean the contacts, the most effective solution would be to replace the faulty part.
• Sensor controls are found on expensive models of hoods, and while they may look attractive, they are not easily repairable.
• It is also important to check the start capacitor and the track on the control board. However, performing these tasks requires basic knowledge of electricity.



A speed switch that can be easily activated by pressing a button

Preventive measures for a long service life of the hood



To ensure that the air filtration design lasts as long as possible and functions smoothly, it is essential to follow the provided operating instructions, handle the household appliances with care, and regularly maintain and replace its components.

1. Avoid heating an empty stove under the hood, especially with an open flame. Engaging in such experiments can lead to unfortunate consequences.
2. Mount the system above a gas stove at a height of 70-80 cm and above an electric stove at 60-70 cm. Installing it lower may result in element deformation, while suspending it above the recommended range will diminish its efficiency.
3. It is recommended to switch on the device a few minutes before using the burner and to switch it off a quarter of an hour after cooking. This will ensure efficient removal of odors and vapors.
4. Make sure to clean and rinse the metal grease trap every 3-4 weeks. Additionally, disposable filters should be replaced every six months or more frequently if the hood is used frequently. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can lead to oil particles entering the motor and causing overheating and eventual motor failure.

Performing maintenance on the filters

As evident, the kitchen exhaust fan is not a highly intricate electrical device, and small fixes can be done at home with a basic understanding of electrical engineering and the required tools. The majority of issues do not require major intervention, but if the root cause of the malfunction cannot be identified immediately and self-repairing the hood is not feasible, it is advisable to seek the assistance of professionals and service centers.