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Trouble Shooting Your Kitchen Exhaust Fan

Vent hood cleaning can be a very invasive process.  The process includes using power washers and heavy duty degreasers.  Our work includes working on the roof top, in the sub ceiling, and downstairs in the kitchen.

From time to time, issues arise after a cleaning has occurred.  The most common call we get is that the exhaust fan is not turning on, or it is not working at its full capacity.  Here are a few frequently asked questions and resolutions.

                              

  • Fan is not turning on at all.
    • Check main switch on canopy hood – flip on and off to make sure that it is getting power.
    • If no power is getting to the hood – check the breaker box. Flip switches for fans back and forth, even if they do not looked tripped.
    • If fan is getting power – check switch on roof top fan – these are sometimes accidentally left off after the cleaning process – if you are not comfortable with the location of the fan – call the last service provider.
  • Fan is still not turning on after these trouble shoots were completed.
    • Check for any exposed wiring on or around the exhaust fan. Check switches and ground wires.  Call an electrician to accomplish a thorough inspection.
  • The fan motor makes a humming or clicking sound when turned on, then shuts down.
    • The motor takes twice as much power to start up, than it does to run normally. This may cause motors that are already worn out to fail.  Call an HVAC company to either install a new motor or repair it.
    • The start-up of the motor may also cause worn belts to break. Call your current vendor to replace.
    • There may be a foreign object obstructing the fan blades. Call the last person to service your hood.
  • Fan turned on, but made a loud squeaking noise.
    • Loose or out of align belts will cause slippage on the pulleys when turned on.
    • Worn belt. – Change belt or call your service provider to replace
  • Fan is on, but is making loud rattling sound.
    • Broken belt. Call service provider to replace.
    • Fan could be out of balance due to an improper cleaning of fan blades.

These are just a few issues that can occur after a cleaning.  Most hood cleaning companies can service them on the spot, but other issues will require a licensed professional to remedy the issue.  Please give us a call at 972-704-1812 or visit us at www.thehoodboss.com for any other questions.