The extractor allows you to suck up grease and smoke from cooked dishes, thus ventilating 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 may degrade over time. If the engine does not start, then it will be necessary to check the parts that are responsible for starting the device:
- the wiring
- food
- engine
- the capacitor
A kitchen hood, or extractor hood, is an essential kitchen appliance that removes airborne grease, smoke, and cooking odors. The heart of this appliance is its motor, which powers the fan and ensures effective ventilation. However, like any machine, it can sometimes face problems. If your hood’s motor doesn’t start, it could be due to a range of issues. This article will highlight potential causes and suggest possible remedies.
Possible Causes and Solutions
1. Electrical Issues
One of the most common causes of a non-starting motor is an electrical issue. This could be a problem with the power supply, a tripped circuit breaker, or a blown fuse.
Solution: Ensure that the hood is plugged in and that the outlet is functioning properly. Check your circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If your hood uses a fuse, check whether it needs to be replaced.
2. Faulty Motor Capacitor
The motor capacitor plays a crucial role in starting the motor by providing a high-voltage jolt. Over time, the capacitor can wear out, leading to a motor that struggles to start or one that fails to start altogether.
Solution: The motor capacitor should be tested using a multimeter and, if found faulty, replaced by a professional or a knowledgeable DIYer.
3. Damaged Switch
If the hood’s motor isn’t starting, the issue could be a faulty or broken switch.
Solution: In this case, the faulty switch will need to be replaced. This is usually a simple process involving disconnecting the old switch and installing a new one, but the process can vary depending on the make and model of your hood.
4. Faulty Motor
The motor itself could be the issue. Over time and with extensive use, the motor can burn out or become damaged, leading to it not starting.
Solution: Replacing the motor is more complex than the previously mentioned solutions and usually requires professional assistance. Ensure you acquire a motor that’s compatible with your hood model.
POWER CONTROL
Usually the motor and power supply are connected by connectors on the back of the hood.
A live test is required to check that the motor is powered correctly: wear protective gloves and do not touch any metal parts without gloves.
- Disconnect them to test and make sure the motor is well powered.
- Set the multimeter to AC voltage and to a value above 230 volts, often 600 volts.
- Plug in the hood.
- Place the multimeter leads on the connectors. On each device, the connector configuration may be different: run several tests to make all possible configurations. Be sure to put your test prompts in all terminals.
If you are getting 230V, it looks like there is no problem with the motor power supply. If not, then the card is faulty.
When to Call a Professional
While some of these issues can be handled by a knowledgeable DIYer, it’s important to know when to call a professional. Dealing with electrical appliances can be dangerous if not handled correctly. If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks or if your hood is under warranty, it’s best to seek professional assistance.
Preventive Measures
Regular maintenance can prevent many common hood issues. Cleaning the hood and its filters regularly can help keep the motor in good condition. Regularly checking and replacing worn-out parts can also help prolong the life of the hood and its motor.
In conclusion, while a non-starting hood motor can be a nuisance, identifying the problem and implementing a solution can be straightforward. Whether you tackle the issue yourself or call a professional, understanding the cause of the problem is the first step to getting your hood back to optimal performance.
