These Signs Say it's Time to Replace your Range Hood

Signs that You Need a New Range Hood

Replacing a fume extractor is essential for keeping your kitchen safe from smoke and toxicity. Keep checking for any signs of intense fumes, non-functioning control system, worn-off color, etc.

Below are some of the significant signs that can help you understand when to install a new range hood.

1. Range Hood Lights Do Not Work

A potential kitchen hood’s problem is the non-workability of lights, especially when the fan is running. A quick remedy would be to change the light bulbs. If this doesn’t work, check the wiring and connections to verify any loose parts or short-circuit issues.

You can also check the electricity supply to the appliance through a multimeter. The reading should be according to the voltage requirements. If you still cannot turn on the lights, then it’s probably time to hit the market and get a new range hood.

2. Inefficient Performance

Several instances restrict the proper functioning of a kitchen hood, including accumulation of moisture, damaged internal components, and other potential issues. At times, the fan only runs at a single speed, and doesn’t exhaust the fumes properly, due to which smoke blithers around the entire kitchen or food area, causing congestion and breathing issues. To fix the issue, you can either replace the fan or clear off the vent openings or filters present in the hood.

Or else, a new range hood is always a good option!

3. Fan Turns on By Itself

At times, the range hood’s fan starts automatically. This action depends on the model that you are using. Some models offer a ‘sentry feature’ that checks the air above the cooktop. If the temperature is tepid enough to alert the system, it automatically turns on the exhaust fan. In other models, issues like a failed sensor, faulty wiring, or a damaged electric circuit board can cause the fan to rotate on its own even when the cooktop is turned off. Also, you need to check the working of the temperature sensor.

Check the tech sheet or technical data for the model available and check its resistance with a multimeter. If the reading does not match the resistance limit on the sheet, the sensor is likely to be replaced. Or, if the sensor is operational, verify the wiring and connections. If everything is fine, the ECB is faulty and needs to be changed as the board will not register the sensor’s input.

4. Other Electrical Issues

Apart from the mechanical flaws that restrict the working of a kitchen hood, there are several electrical issues too. For instance, the connector on the lead is not properly plugged in. Also, the function selector mechanism is faulty, which will make the hood non-functional.

The issue of the capacitor present on the motor can also be at fault. If that’s the case, then you will need to replace it. Lastly, the main circuit board can be defective too. You can change it yourself or call on the services of a licensed engineer.

Troubleshoot Your Range Hood

If you suspect that your range hood isn't working up to par, you can try these common troubleshooting tasks to narrow down the source of the issue:

A. Check the Circuit Board

If your kitchen hood fan isn't working, there may be a broken circuit board. Check whether the touch panel lights up and functions with each speed limit. Search for damaged components or shattered sections to verify if the hood is functional. Contact the manufacturer and order a new circuit board if it requires replacement.

B. Examine Each Switch

As the control panel is connected to the fan and lights, it’s essential that the switches are in working condition. Contact the manufacturer for a wiring schematic if you want to locate the wires connecting the switches. Afterward, test the electrical current with a multimeter.

C. Replace the Control Panel

If switches are not replaceable, you need to replace the entire control panel. Also, replace the touch panel if it does not turn on or function at different speeds. Lastly, check the driver, light bulbs, and sockets before moving ahead.

D. Change the LED Driver

If the lights are not working, a fused LED driver can be one of its causes. Change it and make sure that the new one is connected properly.

E. Replace Non-Working Light Bulbs

Light bulbs are low-age electrical appliances. Because of this, malfunctioning or high heat can cause the bulbs to short circuit or burn out. LED light bulbs, in particular, are not heat-resistant; the maximum limit they can reach is 50 degrees centigrade.

If the light bulbs are close to a hot range or stainless steel grill, the strong heat will wear them out. Or, the bulbs can get broken too. To request a replacement, contact the manufacturer of your range hood.

If you own a Hauslane range hood, you can contact our support team here. You may contact our customer support by phone call, email, real-time chat support, or you may schedule an appointment at your convenience.

F. Replace the Lamp Socket

Replace the light socket if it is malfunctioning or causes the light bulbs to fluctuate. The working of the bulbs can be checked with a multimeter. Take help from the manufacturer in troubleshooting the light socket.

G. Tighten the Fan on the Range Hood

If you want to troubleshoot the fan, try tightening the screws on the fan motor so that everything is in place. Also, ensure that the blade is attached perfectly.

Maintain Your Kitchen Range Hood

Apart from changing the entire range hood, you can make routine checks on it to see if there is anything eerie or problematic:

Key Takeaway!

Range hoods are essential appliances in the kitchen that keep away air pollution and contamination. It helps to reduce the kitchen’s temperature and keeps you away from scrubbing surfaces.

However, there are specific indications that you need to notice and rectify before the entire range hood malfunctions. Issues include clogged ducts, non-functioning light bulbs, lamp socket issues, and others.

If the problems are out of hand, call a licensed expert or the manufacturer to fix them. Otherwise, it's time to purchase a new range hood. And while you’re replacing the range hood, you can read this post about remodeling a kitchen in style and within budget if you happen to be contemplating about upgrading the kitchen.