When a hood gets loud or weak, the cause is usually the filters, the fan wheel, the motor or the duct. Each leaves a different clue.
Note when the problem began. A hood that got slowly weaker over months points to buildup in the filters or duct, while one that changed overnight points to a failed part or a damaged connection.
A Rattling Sound
A rattle often means a loose fan wheel or something light caught in the housing. Turn the hood off and look for loose screws on the filter frames or the trim.
A High Whine
A whine that rises with fan speed can point to worn motor bearings. It is easy to hear but hard to confirm without taking the unit apart.
Weak Airflow
- Clean the grease filters first, since saturated filters choke the fan.
- Hold a tissue near the filter on high speed and see if it is pulled in.
- Check the roof or wall cap outside for a flap that sticks.
The Fan Works on Only One Speed
If only high works, or only low, the speed switch or the control may be the problem. If one blower does not turn on a unit with two, the motor itself is suspect.
What We Cannot Judge From the Kitchen
A weak hood can also be a duct problem, such as a crushed section in the attic or a cap clogged with grease. That ductwork is outside the hood, and we tell you when it is the likely cause.
Older Hoods
A blower from years back may be difficult to match. We check what is available, give you a written price, and tell you plainly if a new hood is the better choice. Our hood repair page explains more.
When it is time for a repair, call us or schedule through the online form.