Range vent hood turns off by itself: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

The blower motor is making a humming noise but the fan is not spinning. This typically means the bearings that let the motor shaft spin freely are worn out. Some older, bigger motors have openings to add oil. If your motor has these oil holes, try adding oil to the bearings to get the fan spinning freely again. If oiling the bearings does not fix the problem, or if you can't lubricate the motor, you will need to replace the blower motor. Motors without oil holes need to be replaced when the bearings wear out and cause the humming noise.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Blower Motor

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Then disconnect the wires leading to the blower motor.

2. Remove filters or baffles - Remove any filters, baffles or panels that are in the way of accessing the blower motor.
3. Remove fan blade - Use a screwdriver to remove the screw holding the fan blade onto the blower motor shaft. Carefully remove the fan blade.
4. Remove motor mounting screws - Locate mounting screws or nuts holding the blower motor in place. Remove them so the motor can be taken out.
5. Disconnect wiring - Disconnect any remaining wiring connected to the blower motor's wiring harness or terminals.
6. Remove old blower motor - Carefully maneuver the old blower motor out of the vent hood. Make note of how it was positioned.
7. Install new blower motor - Place the new blower motor into position, lining up any mounting holes or hardware. Reconnect wiring.
8. Secure blower motor - Replace any mounting screws or hardware to secure the new blower motor.
9. Replace fan blade - Carefully replace the fan blade onto the new blower motor shaft in its original position.
10. Replace baffles and panels - Put back any filters, baffles or access panels.
11. Restore power and test - Restore power to the vent hood. Test that the new blower motor and fan are working properly.

Repair Instructions:

The vent fan motor is making a humming noise but the fan is not spinning. This typically means the bearings that let the motor shaft spin freely are worn out. Some older, bigger motors have openings to add oil. If your motor has these oil holes, try adding oil to the bearings to get the fan spinning freely again. If oiling the bearings does not fix the issue, or if you can't lubricate the motor, you will need to replace the exhaust fan motor. Motors without oil holes need to be replaced when the bearings wear out and cause the humming noise.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Vent Fan Motor

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Then disconnect the wires leading to the vent fan motor.

2. Remove filters or baffles - Remove any filters, baffles or panels that are obstructing access to the vent fan motor.
3. Remove fan blades - Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the fan blades onto the motor shaft. Carefully remove the fan blades.
4. Remove motor mounting screws - Locate the mounting screws or nuts holding the vent fan motor in place. Remove them so the motor can be taken out.
5. Disconnect wiring - Disconnect any remaining wiring connected to the vent fan motor's wiring harness or terminals.
6. Remove old motor - Carefully maneuver the old vent fan motor out of the vent hood. Make note of how it was positioned.
7. Install new motor - Place the new vent fan motor into position, lining up any mounting holes or hardware. Reconnect wiring.
8. Secure motor - Replace any mounting screws or hardware to secure the new vent fan motor.
9. Replace fan blades - Carefully replace the fan blades onto the new motor shaft in their original positions.
10. Replace baffles and panels - Put back any filters, baffles or access panels that were removed.
11. Restore power and test - Restore power to the vent hood. Test that the new vent fan motor and blades are functioning properly.

Repair Instructions:

The filters in the range hood need to be clean for good airflow. If the filters get clogged with grease and dirt, it's harder for the fan to push the air through. This can make the motor overheat. Check the filter(s) and clean or replace them if needed. Look to see if they are covered in sticky grease and particles that block airflow. Remove any large debris by hand. For grease, soak the filters in degreaser solution and then wash off. Let them air dry completely before putting them back. If filters are very dirty or have tears, replace them with new ones. Clean or new range hood filters allow air to flow freely again. The fan won’t have to work as hard or overheat with clean filters that don’t restrict airflow.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Filter

1. Turn off vent hood - Turn off the vent hood fan and lights. Allow any residual heat to dissipate.

2. Locate filter release tabs - Look along the front and sides of the filter for spring loaded release tabs.
3. Push in tabs and lower filter - Push back on the release tabs and gently lower the filter down and out.
4. Inspect vent hood interior - Check for any grease buildup inside the vent hood. Clean if necessary.
5. Check sizing of new filter - Verify the replacement filter is the correct size and shape.
6. Align and insert new filter - Angle the new filter into place and push up until the release tabs click.
7. Periodically check filter - Check and clean the filter regularly according to manufacturer guidelines.
8. Discard old filter properly - Place the old grease filter in a plastic bag before discarding in the trash.
9. Turn on vent hood - Turn the vent hood fan and lights back on and check for proper operation.

Repair Instructions:

If the range hood motor keeps turning off, there may be blocked ventilation. If you can access the outside vent, check for clogs like a bird's nest. Turn the hood fan on and feel the air flow at the inside vent and outside outlet. Air should blow out strongly. If airflow seems weak, the vent is likely obstructed somewhere. But if you can't safely reach the outdoor vent, have a professional inspect it. They can check the entire duct run and outlet for any grease buildup, debris, and nests that could restrict airflow. Any clogs found will need to be thoroughly cleaned for full airflow. Unobstructed, wide open ventilation prevents the motor from overheating and shutting off. Removing any blockages allows the range hood fan to properly vent fumes, moisture, and odors from the kitchen to the outside.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Wall Vent Cap for 6 Inch Duct

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Turn off power to the vent hood at the circuit breaker.

2. Remove old wall vent cap - Remove the screws or mounting plate securing the old wall vent cap and take it down.
3. Inspect ductwork - Check the ductwork for any damage or blockages.
4. Measure duct diameter - Verify the duct is 6 inches round to match the new vent cap size.
5. Cut opening for new vent cap - Cut a 6 inch round hole in the exterior wall for the new vent cap, if needed.
6. Attach mounting plate - Secure the mounting plate for the new vent cap over the hole.
7. Insert and attach new vent cap - Insert the new 6 inch vent cap into the hole and attach it securely to the mounting plate.
8. Caulk exterior gaps - Caulk around the vent cap exterior to seal any gaps or openings.
9. Restore power - Restore power and test that the vent hood exhausts properly.

Repair Instructions:

Something could be stuck in the blower wheel stopping it from spinning. Or, the blower wheel might be rubbing against the blower housing. To check, try spinning the blower fan by hand. If it doesn't spin freely, look for blockages in the blower wheel. Also make sure the wheel isn't rubbing on the housing. If nothing is blocking it but the wheel still doesn't spin freely, you'll need to replace both the blower wheel and housing. A blower wheel that doesn't spin easily could mean it's damaged and needs replacement along with the housing it sits in.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Blower Wheel and Housing

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Then disconnect the wires leading to the blower motor.

2. Remove filters or baffles - Remove any filters, baffles or panels that are obstructing access to the blower wheel and housing.
3. Remove ductwork - Detach any ductwork connected to the blower housing so it can be fully removed.
4. Remove blower wheel - Locate and remove the screw(s) securing the blower wheel to the motor shaft. Slide the wheel off the shaft.
5. Remove blower housing - Remove any screws or fasteners securing the blower housing. Carefully detach it from the vent hood.
6. Install new blower housing - Position the new blower housing in place and secure with screws or fasteners.
7. Install blower wheel - Carefully slide the new blower wheel onto the motor shaft and secure it with the retaining screw(s).
8. Reconnect ductwork - Reattach any ductwork to the blower housing outlet.
9. Replace filters and baffles - Replace any filters, baffles or panels that were removed.
10. Restore power and test - Restore power to the vent hood. Turn on the blower and test for proper air movement.

Repair Instructions:

The blower motor makes a humming noise but the fan doesn't spin. This usually means the bearings that allow the motor shaft to spin freely are worn out. Some older, bigger motors have openings to add oil. Try adding oil to the bearings to get the fan spinning freely again. If oiling the bearings doesn't fix it, or if you can't oil the motor, you'll need to replace the exhaust fan motor. Motors without oil spouts need to be replaced when the bearings wear out.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Exhaust Fan Motor

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Then disconnect the wires leading to the motor.

2. Remove filters or baffles - Remove any filters, baffles or panels that are in the way of accessing the fan motor.
3. Remove fan blades - Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the fan blades onto the motor shaft. Carefully remove the fan blades.
4. Remove motor mounting screws - Locate mounting screws or nuts holding the motor in place. Remove them so the motor can be taken out.
5. Disconnect wiring - Disconnect any remaining wiring connected to the motor's wiring harness or terminals.
6. Remove old motor - Carefully maneuver the old motor out of the vent hood. Make note of how it was positioned.
7. Install new motor - Place the new motor into position, lining up any mounting holes or hardware. Reconnect wiring.
8. Secure motor - Replace any mounting screws or hardware to secure the new motor.
9. Replace fan blades - Carefully replace the fan blades onto the new motor shaft in their original positions.
10. Replace baffles and panels - Put back any filters, baffles or access panels.
11. Restore power and test - Restore power to the vent hood. Test that the new motor and fan are working properly.

Repair Instructions:

The blower motor is making a humming sound but the fan is not spinning. This typically means the bearings that allow the motor shaft to spin freely are worn out. Some older, larger motors have openings to add oil. If your motor has these oil spouts, try adding oil to the bearings to get the fan spinning freely again. If oiling the bearings does not fix the issue, or if you cannot lubricate the motor, you will need to replace the exhaust fan motor. Motors without oil spouts need to be replaced when the bearings wear out and cause the humming sound.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Exhaust Fan Motor

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Then disconnect the wires leading to the motor.

2. Remove filters or baffles - Remove any filters, baffles or panels that are in the way of accessing the fan motor.
3. Remove fan blades - Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the fan blades onto the motor shaft. Carefully remove the fan blades.
4. Remove motor mounting screws - Locate mounting screws or nuts holding the motor in place. Remove them so the motor can be taken out.
5. Disconnect wiring - Disconnect any remaining wiring connected to the motor's wiring harness or terminals.
6. Remove old motor - Carefully maneuver the old motor out of the vent hood. Make note of how it was positioned.
7. Install new motor - Place the new motor into position, lining up any mounting holes or hardware. Reconnect wiring.
8. Secure motor - Replace any mounting screws or hardware to secure the new motor.
9. Replace fan blades - Carefully replace the fan blades onto the new motor shaft in their original positions.
10. Replace baffles and panels - Put back any filters, baffles or access panels.
11. Restore power and test - Restore power to the vent hood. Test that the new motor and fan are working properly.

Repair Instructions:

Most range hood vents have a damper that helps keep outside air from coming in when not venting. If the damper gets stuck shut or can't open all the way, airflow is limited. This can make the motor overheat from poor ventilation. Check that the damper opens fully when the fan turns on. Look for debris, dirt or grease that could be blocking it from opening completely. Also inspect the hinges and rods to ensure they move smoothly. If the damper is obstructed or has damaged parts, it needs replacing. Installing a new damper that can open fully allows good airflow again. The motor won't overheat with unrestricted ventilation. A working damper seals when the vent is off but opens when in use to prevent overheating issues.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Vent Damper

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Disconnect any wiring.

2. Remove damper access panel - Remove the access panel providing internal access to the vent damper.
3. Detach linkage - Remove any retaining clips or fasteners connecting the damper linkage.
4. Remove mounting screws - Remove the mounting screws securing the old damper assembly.
5. Remove old damper - Carefully slide out and remove the old damper assembly.
6. Install new damper - Insert the new replacement damper assembly into position.
7. Replace mounting screws - Reinsert and tighten the mounting screws to secure the new damper.
8. Reattach linkage - Replace any clips and fasteners to reconnect the damper linkage.
9. Replace access panel - Replace the damper access panel.
10. Restore power - Restore power and test that the new damper opens and closes properly.

Repair Instructions:

Range hood vents use grease filters to catch oils and grease from cooking steam while letting air pass through. If the filters get clogged with too much grease, it's harder for the fan to push the air. This can make the motor overheat. You should clean the grease filters periodically with dish soap and warm water so air flows well. Check if the filters are very dirty or have tears or holes. Remove large chunks of grease by hand first. Then soak the filters and scrub off residue. Rinse and let them dry completely before putting them back. If the filters are excessively greasy or ripped, replace them with new ones. Clean filters allow good airflow so the motor doesn't overheat. Dirty or damaged filters block ventilation, making the fan work too hard.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Grease Filter

1. Locate filter release tabs - Locate the release tabs or handles on the edges of the grease filter.

2. Push in tabs and lower filter - Push in the release tabs and gently lower the filter down and out of the vent hood.
3. Clean vent hood if needed - If there is a heavy grease buildup, clean the interior of the vent hood.
4. Check new filter sizing - Verify the new replacement filter is the correct size and shape for the vent hood.
5. Align and insert new filter - Align the new filter into the vent hood opening and gently push into place.
6. Engage release tabs - Make sure the release tabs or handles are fully engaged to secure the new filter.
7. Check filter periodically - Check and clean the new filter regularly according to manufacturer guidelines.
8. Discard old filter appropriately - Discard the old greasy filter in the garbage. Do not attempt to reuse or clean it.

Repair Instructions:

Most range hood vents have a damper that helps keep outside air from coming in when not venting. If the damper gets stuck shut or can't open all the way, airflow is limited. This can make the motor overheat from poor ventilation. Check that the damper opens fully when the fan turns on. Look for debris, dirt or grease that could be blocking it from opening completely. Also inspect the hinges and rods to ensure they move smoothly. If the damper is obstructed or has damaged parts, it needs replacing. Installing a new damper that can open fully allows good airflow again. The motor won't overheat with unrestricted ventilation. A working damper seals when the vent is off but opens when in use to prevent overheating issues.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Vent Damper

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Disconnect any wiring.

2. Remove damper access panel - Remove the access panel providing internal access to the vent damper.
3. Detach linkage - Remove any retaining clips or fasteners connecting the damper linkage.
4. Remove mounting screws - Remove the mounting screws securing the old damper assembly.
5. Remove old damper - Carefully slide out and remove the old damper assembly.
6. Install new damper - Insert the new replacement damper assembly into position.
7. Replace mounting screws - Reinsert and tighten the mounting screws to secure the new damper.
8. Reattach linkage - Replace any clips and fasteners to reconnect the damper linkage.
9. Replace access panel - Replace the damper access panel.
10. Restore power - Restore power and test that the new damper opens and closes properly.

Repair Instructions:

If the fan blade gets clogged with dirt and grease, it blocks airflow. This can make the range hood overheat. Try cleaning the fan blade with dish soap and warm water. Scrub off stuck on gunk with a small brush if needed. Let the blade dry completely when done. If the fan won't come clean or has bent fins, the whole fan will need replacing. A clean fan blade that spins freely allows good airflow again. The range hood motor won't have to work extra hard and overheat if the fan isn't blocked. Keeping the fan blade free of built up grease and debris is important for proper venting.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Fan Blade

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Disconnect the wires leading to the fan motor.

2. Remove filters or baffles - Remove any filters, baffles or panels that are obstructing access to the fan blade.
3. Remove fan blade retaining screws - Locate the screws securing the fan blade to the motor shaft. Remove the screws using a screwdriver.
4. Slide fan blade off motor shaft - With the retaining screws removed, carefully slide the fan blade off the motor shaft.
5. Inspect and clean fan motor shaft - Clean the motor shaft and remove any dirt or debris. Inspect the shaft for damage.
6. Slide new fan blade onto shaft - Carefully slide the new replacement fan blade fully onto the motor shaft.
7. Secure with retaining screws - Insert and tighten the fan blade retaining screws to secure the new blade to the shaft.
8. Replace filters and baffles - Replace any filters, baffles or panels that were removed to access the fan blade.
9. Restore power and test - Restore power to the vent hood. Turn on the fan and ensure the new blade rotates properly.

Repair Instructions:

If the fan blade gets clogged with dirt and grease, it blocks airflow. This can make the range hood overheat. Try cleaning the fan blade with dish soap and warm water. Scrub off stuck on gunk with a small brush if needed. Let the blade dry completely when done. If the fan won't come clean or has bent fins, the whole fan will need replacing. A clean fan blade that spins freely allows good airflow again. The range hood motor won't have to work extra hard and overheat if the fan isn't blocked. Keeping the fan blade free of built up grease and debris is important for proper venting.

How to Replace Range Vent Hood Fan Blade

1. Turn off power and disconnect electrical supply - Locate the circuit breaker for the vent hood and turn it off. Disconnect the wires leading to the fan motor.

2. Remove filters or baffles - Remove any filters, baffles or panels that are obstructing access to the fan blade.
3. Remove fan blade retaining screws - Locate the screws securing the fan blade to the motor shaft. Remove the screws using a screwdriver.
4. Slide fan blade off motor shaft - With the retaining screws removed, carefully slide the fan blade off the motor shaft.
5. Inspect and clean fan motor shaft - Clean the motor shaft and remove any dirt or debris. Inspect the shaft for damage.
6. Slide new fan blade onto shaft - Carefully slide the new replacement fan blade fully onto the motor shaft.
7. Secure with retaining screws - Insert and tighten the fan blade retaining screws to secure the new blade to the shaft.
8. Replace filters and baffles - Replace any filters, baffles or panels that were removed to access the fan blade.
9. Restore power and test - Restore power to the vent hood. Turn on the fan and ensure the new blade rotates properly.

Repair Instructions:

The range hood fan has a motor that can overheat and shut off automatically. If the motor feels stuck or won't spin freely, or keeps running for a while before shutting off, the blower needs replacing. Even if it still has power, a seized up or worn out motor can't vent properly. Feel if the fan blade spins smoothly when turned by hand. Listen for grinding noises when running that signal a bad motor. Replace the entire blower assembly if the motor is defective. A new blower with a working motor will be able to run continuously without overheating or shutting down. Proper ventilation prevents cooking grease and odors from building up. A fan that shuts off due to motor issues won't remove smoke and moisture. Replacing a worn out or stuck blower motor restores strong airflow to clear the kitchen air.

Repair Instructions:

If the range hood has always run too hot, check the vent ducts. If the ducts are too narrow or too long, airflow can be restricted. This can make the hood overheat. Look at the manual for the right duct size and maximum length. Also inspect the outside vent hood for blockages like a bird's nest that could limit airflow. Check that the vent damper inside the duct opens all the way when the fan is on. Any obstructions or undersized ducts that limit airflow can cause overheating issues. Clearing any clogs in the outside vent or damper will help airflow. If the ducts are smaller or longer than recommended, replacing them with the proper sized ducts can improve ventilation and prevent overheating. Proper duct sizing allows good airflow so the range hood doesn't have to work as hard or get too hot.

Repair Instructions:

If the fan blade gets clogged with grease and dirt, it blocks airflow. Try cleaning the blade with dish soap and warm water. Scrub off stuck on gunk with a small brush. Let it dry completely after cleaning. If the blade won't come clean or has bent fins, it needs replacing. A clean fan blade that spins freely allows good airflow. Built up grease and debris put strain on the motor. Keeping the blade free of dirt buildup is important for proper ventilation. Replacing a very dirty or damaged blade gets the range hood venting correctly again. The motor won't overheat or shut off if the fan vents well. Good airflow prevents cooking odors and moisture from building up in the kitchen. A clogged or broken blade restricts air, making the motor work too hard.