How much does it cost to repair a cooker hood/extractor fan? [October 2025]

How much does it cost to repair a cooker hood/extractor fan?

With daily use, kitchen hoods and extractor fans can suffer from grease buildup, worn-out motors, or electrical faults, which may eventually cause them to stop working efficiently or fail completely.

An appliance engineer typically charges an hourly rate for extractor fan repairs, with total costs ranging from £50 to £150 (including VAT). If any replacement parts are needed, the engineer can source them locally on your behalf and add this to your final bill. Just be aware that they will usually add around 20% to cover their time and travel.

Repairs can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the fault. Simple jobs, such as cleaning grease buildup, replacing a fan blade, or tightening loose components, are usually quicker. More complex jobs, such as fixing the motor, control switch, or wiring, may take longer and cost more. 

What other factors affect the cost of cooker hood/extractor fan repair?

Multiple factors can affect the cost of repairing your extractor fan, such as the age and condition of your kitchen hood, and who you book with.

1. Age and condition of your kitchen hood/extractor fan

  
      Older fans or hoods with rare parts may require more time to repair. In some cases, if multiple components fail, replacing the fan may be more cost-effective.

2. When you book

Appliance engineers will typically charge a higher rate or call-out fee for bookings made during the weekend, bank holidays, early mornings and late in the evening. You can also expect to pay a premium for next-day or same-day call-outs to compensate for the late notice. 
 

3. Who you book with

Sole traders often charge a lower hourly rate than larger tradesperson services. If they operate below the VAT threshold, you could also save the 20% VAT on top of their services.

Booking with a larger, trusted tradesperson service comes with additional benefits, including:

• Better choice of appointment slots
• Same-day or next-day availability
• Instant online booking
• Access to a responsive customer service team if anything goes wrong
• Cover engineers on hand just in case there are any unforeseen absences
  
   

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What are the signs that your cooker hood/extractor fan needs repairing?

It's usually pretty obvious when your kitchen extractor fan isn't working, but here's a breakdown of the most common early signs and what they're caused by.

How can I extend the life of my cooker hood/extractor fan?

A few simple cleaning and maintenance tasks now and again can prolong the life of your cooker hood. 
 

1. Clean filters regularly. Grease and grime naturally build up in your cooker hood over time, which can block airflow and strain the motor. Wash metal grease filters every 1-3 months in warm, soapy water (or in the dishwasher if they’re dishwasher-safe). If your extractor uses charcoal filters, these are not washable and should be replaced every 6-12 months depending on usage.

2. Check fan blades. Inspect the fan blades for any damage or excess grease. A thick layer of grease can throw the fan off balance and make the motor work harder, leading to wear and noise issues. Gently clean blades with a damp cloth and degreaser when necessary.

3. Avoid overuse at full power. Running the extractor fan on its highest setting for long periods can cause the motor to overheat and wear faster. Use higher speeds only when necessary (e.g. frying or boiling), and drop back to a lower speed once the worst of the steam and smoke has cleared.

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Is it more cost-effective to repair or replace a broken cooker hood/extractor fan?

Whether it’s better to repair or replace depends largely on the cost and the age of your extractor fan. As a general rule, if the repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, replacement is usually the smarter choice.

Extractor fans typically last around eight to twelve years, so if yours is over ten years old, investing in a replacement may be more economical. Modern models tend to be far more efficient, consuming less energy while running much more quietly. They also provide improved extraction power, keeping your kitchen fresher and reducing grease buildup.
 

Many newer fans are designed with easier maintenance in mind, offering features such as dishwasher-safe filters and more readily available replacement parts. While repairing a younger unit can often extend its life significantly, replacing an older model often brings the added benefit of better performance and lower running costs.

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Can I repair my cooker hood/extractor fan myself?

You may be able to carry out some basic repairs on your extractor fan yourself, such as cleaning the grease filters, replacing charcoal filters, wiping down the hood and blades, or checking the ducting for blockages. These are relatively straightforward jobs that can help keep your extractor running smoothly.

However, once the problem involves electrical or mechanical components, such as a faulty motor, damaged wiring, or a broken switch, it’s always best to call in a professional. Attempting complex repairs without the right skills and equipment can result in short circuits, permanent motor damage, or even fire hazards. It could also void any manufacturer's warranty or insurance coverage. By contrast, a professional engineer has the training and tools to diagnose issues safely and ensure your extractor is repaired correctly the first time. In most cases, this saves both time and money in the long run.
 

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Where can I get a quote for cooker hood/extractor fan repair?
 

There are a number of ways to get a quote for an extractor fan or kitchen hood repair. A good place to start is asking family and friends for recommendations or by browsing local tradesperson directories.

If you’d prefer to avoid the legwork, you can book through a professional tradesperson service such as Housekeep. Simply provide a few details about the issue with your extractor fan, and we’ll arrange for a fully insured and trusted appliance engineer to visit at a date and time that suits you.

At Housekeep, we repair all kinds of cooker hoods and extractor fans, including those by, Bosch, Zanussi, Smeg, Russell Hobbs, Hoover, Hotpoint, Neff, Beko, Whirlpool, Indesit, Electrolux, and AEG.
 

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Written by Georgina Shepherd & Henry Paterson

Georgina is one Housekeep's home services experts. She's interviewed thousands of the UK's best cleaners and tradespeople - so whether you need advice on a stubborn stain, or you're looking for tips to find the perfect plumber, Georgina's got you covered.

With years of experience in the industry, Henry has delivered talks at industry events including the Ideal Home Show and regularly features as an industry expert for publications including the Sun, Mail Online, Martha Stewart and many more.