What is the difference between an extractor fan and a cooker hood?
The terms "extractor fan" and "cooker hood" are often used interchangeably, but a cooker hood specifically refers to the appliance installed directly above a cooking hob or range, designed to capture cooking fumes, grease, and odors. An "extractor fan" is a broader term that can include cooker hoods, but also refers to general ventilation fans found in bathrooms or utility rooms. Our service specializes in repairing cooker hoods, also known as extractor fans, for kitchens, ensuring proper ventilation and odour removal.
Is a cooker hood a legal requirement in the UK?
In the UK, a cooker hood is generally not a legal requirement for residential properties, but it is highly recommended for maintaining good indoor air quality. Building regulations often require adequate ventilation in kitchens, which a cooker hood helps to provide by removing cooking fumes, steam, and odors. For commercial kitchens, specific ventilation standards and legal requirements typically apply to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.
Are expensive cooker hoods worth it?
The value of an expensive cooker hood often lies in its superior extraction power, quieter operation, higher quality materials, advanced features (like smart controls or specialized lighting), and more sophisticated design. If your kitchen frequently generates strong cooking odors, or if you value a quieter environment and a sleek aesthetic, then investing in a more expensive model can be worth it. Our service ensures any type of cooker hood, regardless of its original cost, is maintained in optimal condition.
Do you need an electrician to replace a range hood?
Yes, you typically need a qualified electrician or a certified appliance engineer to replace a range hood, especially if it involves working with electrical connections or making alterations to existing wiring. Replacing a range hood ensures proper electrical safety and compliance with regulations. Our service provides certified local engineers who are equipped to handle the electrical aspects of cooker hood repair and replacement.
Are range hoods hard to replace?
Replacing range hoods can range from straightforward to challenging, depending on the type of hood (e.g., simple wall-mounted vs. complex integrated or island hoods) and whether new ducting or electrical work is required. Factors like accessing the existing wiring, connecting to ventilation systems, and ensuring proper secure mounting contribute to the complexity. Our service provides skilled engineers with all the necessary tools and spare parts to handle such tasks efficiently and safely.
Do cooker hoods use a lot of electricity?
Cooker hoods generally do not use a lot of electricity compared to major kitchen appliances like ovens or refrigerators. Their primary energy consumption comes from the motor that powers the extractor fan and the lighting. Energy usage will vary based on the fan speed setting and how long the light is on, but even powerful models are typically designed to be energy-efficient for their function of keeping your kitchen well-ventilated and odour-free.
Should the cooker hood be vented or not?
The decision of whether a cooker hood should be vented (ducted) or not (recirculating) depends on your kitchen's setup and preference. Venting extracts air and fumes directly outside through a ducting system, offering superior air purification. Recirculating hoods, on the other hand, filter the air through charcoal filters and release it back into the kitchen, suitable where external venting isn't possible. While both types serve to maintain optimal kitchen air quality, ducted systems are generally more effective at removing moisture, grease, and odors. Our service assists with fixing both extraction and recirculation cooker hoods.
When should I change my cooker hood filter?
To prevent fire hazards that a clogged-up filter can cause, replace a non-washable filter at least every 6 months. Washable ones can be cleaned a good few times before they would need replacing.
What if my cooker hood is not working at all?
Your first course of action is to check if the unit is powered sufficiently (the appliance is on, the socket is not faulty or the fuse is not tripped or blown). If your appliance is properly connected to the mains and the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact us and arrange a timely cooker hood service!
Why is my cooker hood so noisy?
A noisy cooker hood can be caused by several common issues, including a clogged-up filter that restricts airflow, a faulty or unbalanced motor, loose fan blades, or problems with the ducting (e.g., blockages, improper installation). The presence of chopping, rattling, or humming noises indicates a fault that needs attention. Our experts specialize in diagnosing and eliminating such noises to get your kitchen extractor fan up and running quietly and efficiently again.
When to replace a kitchen hood?
You should consider replacing a kitchen hood when it is very old and frequently malfunctioning, even after repairs, or if its extraction power is significantly diminished and cannot be resolved by maintenance. Other reasons include extensive damage to the unit, or if you're upgrading your kitchen and want a more powerful, quieter, or aesthetically pleasing model that better fits your new design. While our service focuses on repairs, if the appliance is beyond economical repair or very outdated, replacement is advisable.
Are the repairs covered by a warranty?
Yes, all repairs come with a warranty that covers both parts and labour, typically for 12 months.
Do you offer same-day repair services?
Same-day repair services are available, depending on technician availability and the nature of the fault.
Can you replace the filters in my cooker hood?
Yes, we can replace grease and carbon filters as part of the repair or maintenance service. Regular filter replacement helps improve the efficiency and lifespan of your cooker hood.
How often should I service or maintain my cooker hood?
To keep your cooker hood functioning properly, we recommend regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filters every 3 to 6 months and servicing it annually, especially if you use your cooker hood frequently.
