Extractor Fan Not Working
- How urgent
- Low risk
- Who fixes it
- An electrician
What's happening?
Extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens remove moisture and odours. Building Regulations (Approved Document F) require adequate ventilation in these rooms, so a non-working fan is not just an inconvenience: it can lead to condensation, damp, and mould. Bathroom fans are often wired to the light switch (with an overrun timer) or to a separate switch. Kitchen fans may be on a socket or hardwired.
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What usually causes it?
- Fan motor has burned out or seized due to dust and moisture buildup
- Timer module has failed (fan with overrun timer no longer runs after the light is turned off)
- Isolator switch for the fan has been turned off
- Wiring connection has come loose at the fan or the switch
- Fan is running but the duct is blocked with lint, dust, or a collapsed flexible hose
Is it dangerous?
A non-working extractor fan is not an immediate electrical danger, but it can lead to serious damp and mould problems, particularly in bathrooms without windows. Prolonged moisture buildup can also damage electrical fittings in the room. If the fan is making a buzzing noise but not spinning, turn it off: a seized motor drawing current generates heat.
Can I fix it myself?
Check the isolator switch is on. Check the consumer unit for a tripped MCB. Clean the fan grille and remove any visible dust or debris. If the fan has an overrun timer, it may have a separate switch or fusible connection that has blown. For bathroom fans wired to the light, check if the light works: if not, the circuit may be tripped.
When should you call an electrician?
Call an electrician if the fan does not respond after checking switches and breakers, if it needs replacing, or if you want a new fan installed. Bathroom fan installation is notifiable work under Part P if it involves new wiring in a special location (bathroom).
What will the electrician actually do?
- Diagnose whether the fan, the wiring, or the timer module is at fault
- Replace the fan unit if the motor has failed
- Check and repair wiring connections to the fan
- Set up the overrun timer to comply with Building Regulations
- Ensure the fan meets the required extraction rate for the room
Who fixes this
- Extractor fan installation
- Electrical fault finding
What it usually costs
- Electrical Fault Finding Cost
- Priced on survey
Questions people ask
Do I legally need an extractor fan in my bathroom?
Why does my bathroom fan run on after the light is off?
Can I replace the fan myself?
Sources & References
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