How to fix a range hood that isn't working

Noisy fan

• Remove range hood filter(s).

• Listen carefully for which fan is making the noise. (Some range hoods have more than one fan.)
• Go to your electrical service panel and turn off the breaker for the range hood. Ensure the power is off by trying the lights or the fan. If they don’t turn on, you’re good to go.
• Remove any metal or plastic grille protecting the fan blades.
• Spin the fan by hand. This can help to identify what’s causing the noise. Always wear protective gloves whether the blades are metal or another material; there could be sharp edges.
• As you spin it, use a flashlight to see if the fan blade is rubbing against anything. If you see it rubbing, reach up beyond the fan and try pushing the motor with your hand slightly to the right or left. Try spinning the blade again to see if it sounds better.
• If the fan squeals, the motor bearings probably need lubrication.
• Remove the bottom metal plate from the range hood by loosening the perimeter Phillips-head screws.
• Grab pliers and loosen the bolt that holds the fan blade to the motor shaft. Then pull off the fan blade.

• Squirt spray lubricant where the shaft comes out of the fan motor.
• Spin the motor shaft by hand to see if it sounds better. Add more spray lubricant if the squealing sound persists.

• Reinstall the fan blade and tighten the retaining bolt.
• Reinstall the range hood bottom plate.
• Reinstall the protective fan grille.
• Turn on the circuit breaker and test the fan.