Range Hood or Downdraft Not Working? 6 Checks to Do Before You Call

If your range hood won't run, first check the breaker and whether the lights still work: lights on but no fan usually means a failed motor, capacitor or speed control. Weak suction is most often greasy filters or a stuck backdraft damper. A downdraft that won't rise is usually the lift motor or its switch. Wash the filters and check the damper yourself; motor and control work needs a technician.

6 checks you can do safely

1. Check the breaker and the lights. If the lights work but the fan doesn't, power is reaching the hood and the fault is inside.
2. Wash the metal filters. Grease-loaded filters cut airflow sharply. Hot soapy water or the dishwasher cleans them.
3. Check the backdraft damper. With power off, reach into the duct opening: the flap should swing freely, not stick shut.
4. Try every speed. If only some speeds work, the speed switch or control board is the likely fault.
5. Listen to the noise. A new roar or rattle points to worn motor bearings or a blower wheel caked with grease.
6. Downdraft models. Clear the vent opening and the cooktop above it; if it hums but won't rise, the lift motor or gears are failing.

When to call a technician

• The fan won't run on any speed with power confirmed.
• The motor hums, smells hot or trips the breaker.
• The downdraft is stuck up or down.

Stay safe

Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) before touching anything inside it, and never open a sealed refrigeration system, a gas valve or a microwave. If a code points to a part, the part has to be tested before it is replaced; we do that on the $75 diagnostic visit, credited toward the repair.

Frequently asked questions

How long do range hood motors last?

Often 10 years or more, less with heavy grease and frequent high-speed use.

Do you clean hood ducts?

No — we repair motors, fans, lights and controls. Duct and grease cleaning is a separate service.

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