A properly functioning range hood is essential for maintaining clean air and a comfortable cooking environment in your kitchen. When it stops extracting air effectively, odors, grease, and smoke can quickly accumulate, making cooking unpleasant and even unhealthy. Two of the most common reasons behind poor air extraction are clogged filters and a faulty fan motor. Understanding these issues will help you determine whether a simple cleaning or a professional repair is needed to restore your range hood’s performance.

Clogged Filters – The First Culprit to Check

One of the easiest yet most common reasons your range hood may not be extracting air properly is dirty or clogged filters. Over time, grease, dust, and cooking residues accumulate on the filters, restricting airflow and reducing suction power.

Grease filters are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel mesh and are designed to trap grease particles from the air. If these filters are not cleaned regularly—ideally every month—they can become coated with a thick layer of grease that blocks air movement. This causes the fan to work harder and less efficiently, and eventually, it might not extract air at all.

Charcoal filters, found in ductless range hoods, absorb odors and smoke. Unlike metal filters, they cannot be cleaned; instead, they must be replaced every few months, depending on usage. When these filters become saturated, your hood will lose its ability to remove smells and contaminants effectively.

How to fix clogged filters:

1. Remove and inspect the filters. Hold them up to the light; if you can’t see through them, it’s time for cleaning or replacement. 
2. Clean metal filters by soaking them in hot, soapy water with degreaser, then scrubbing gently with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry before reinstalling. 
3. Replace charcoal filters if your hood uses them. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for replacement frequency. 

Regular maintenance of your filters is key. Neglecting them not only weakens air extraction but can also shorten the life of the fan motor by forcing it to work under strain.

Faulty Fan Motor – The Heart of the Problem

If your filters are clean but the range hood still isn’t working properly, the issue may lie deeper—in the fan motor. The motor drives the fan blades that pull air through the filters and expel it outside (in ducted systems) or recirculate it after filtration (in ductless systems).

Over time, fan motors can wear out due to continuous use, exposure to heat and grease, or electrical problems. When this happens, you may notice the fan spinning slower than usual, making unusual noises, or not spinning at all.

Signs of a faulty fan motor include:

• The fan runs weakly or intermittently.
  
• You hear humming, grinding, or rattling sounds.
  
• The motor gets excessively hot during operation.
  
• There’s no airflow even when the fan seems to be working. 

In some cases, the problem may not be the motor itself but the fan blades—they may be loose, broken, or clogged with grease. However, if the motor has burned out or lost efficiency, it will need replacement by a professional technician.

Why you should not ignore fan motor issues:
A failing motor not only affects ventilation but can also lead to overheating, electrical hazards, or complete hood failure. Trying to fix the motor yourself can be risky, as it involves handling wiring and internal components. A certified technician can safely diagnose whether the issue lies with the motor, capacitor, or control board and replace the damaged parts with genuine ones.

When to Call a Professional

If cleaning the filters doesn’t solve the problem and the motor shows signs of malfunction, it’s best to contact an experienced appliance repair service. Professional technicians have the expertise and tools to accurately diagnose the issue, test the electrical components, and restore your range hood to optimal performance.

Ignoring poor air extraction can have long-term consequences. Persistent grease buildup can damage internal parts, create fire hazards, and reduce indoor air quality. Timely repair not only improves kitchen comfort but also extends the lifespan of your appliance.

Preventing Future Problems

To keep your range hood performing at its best:

• Clean grease filters regularly—once a month or more often if you cook frequently.
  
• Replace charcoal filters every 3–6 months.
  
• Avoid using harsh chemicals that can corrode metal filters.
  
• Schedule annual maintenance checks to ensure the motor, wiring, and controls are functioning properly.
  
• Keep the hood’s interior clean to prevent grease from reaching the fan or motor. 

With proper care and prompt attention to issues, your range hood will continue to provide effective ventilation and maintain a fresh cooking space for years.

Professional Help You Can Trust

If your range hood isn’t extracting air properly and you suspect clogged filters or a faulty fan motor, don’t wait until the problem worsens. The expert technicians at Chula Vista Appliance Repair Company specialize in diagnosing and repairing all types of range hoods—ducted, ductless, and island models.

We provide fast, reliable service to restore your kitchen’s ventilation and ensure your appliance runs smoothly. Whether it’s cleaning, replacing components, or fixing electrical issues, our team delivers professional results with guaranteed quality.

Contact Chula Vista Appliance Repair Company today to schedule your range hood repair and bring clean, fresh air back to your kitchen.

Contact us

(619) 880-5508