The hood turns out to be an indispensable appliance for the kitchen. It allows the suction of grease and smoke from cooked dishes and thus ventilates the kitchen. For extractor hoods, two types of evacuation exist: either evacuation by extraction or by recycling. Most hoods have both modes, recirculation and exhaust, but some only have one of them.
However, some elements can degrade over time, and it is not uncommon for this device to have frequent failures. This is why it is important to overhaul the parts of the hood. These failures may relate to a suction or ignition problem, it will be necessary to check the elements responsible for an ignition problem:
- lighting
- the catch
- the power cable
- the wiring
- engine
- the capacitor
An extractor hood, also known as a range hood, is a critical part of many kitchens, helping to remove smoke, steam, and odors produced during cooking. However, like any appliance, there may be times when it doesn’t function as expected. One common issue homeowners might encounter is the hood refusing to turn on. In this article, we’ll explore some of the potential causes for this problem and provide guidance on how to address them.
Power Supply Issues
The first and most basic issue to check is whether your hood is receiving power. This could be a problem with your home’s circuit breaker, a loose plug, or a power outage in your area.
Solution: Check the plug to ensure it is securely connected to the power outlet. Also, confirm that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If you have other appliances on the same circuit, see if they’re working. If they aren’t, you may be dealing with a larger power issue, and it might be time to call an electrician.
Faulty On/Off Switch
The on/off switch is used every time you operate your hood, so it experiences wear and tear. Over time, this can lead to it becoming faulty, preventing your hood from turning on.
Solution: If you’re comfortable doing so, you can test the switch using a multimeter to determine if it’s the source of the problem. If it is, you’ll need to replace the switch. Depending on your comfort level with appliance repair, you may want to do this yourself or hire a professional.
Defective Fan Motor
The fan motor is a crucial part of your hood. If it’s defective or has burnt out, the hood won’t function.
Solution: Testing and replacing a fan motor is a more complex task, typically best handled by a professional. However, if you have experience with appliance repair, you might choose to tackle this yourself. Be sure to unplug the hood before starting any work.
Damaged Wiring
Over time, wiring within your hood can become damaged, leading to your hood not receiving power and thus failing to turn on.
Solution: If you suspect this could be the problem, it’s advisable to call a professional, as working with electrical wiring can be dangerous if not done correctly.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance can prevent many issues from occurring. Keeping your hood and its filters clean will improve its performance and lifespan. Also, regularly inspect the hood for any signs of damage, and address these promptly.
When to Call a Professional
While some problems can be identified and perhaps even fixed by a knowledgeable DIYer, many issues with a range hood will require the expertise of a professional, especially when dealing with electrical components. Safety should always be your top priority, so don’t hesitate to call a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the process.
In conclusion, several issues can prevent your extractor hood from turning on, from simple power supply problems to more complex issues with the hood’s internal components. Identifying the source of the problem is the first step toward finding a solution and getting your kitchen back to a smoke-free and odor-free state.
