Heat/light/fan extract units – fan grille is dirty/clogged

Cause

Build-up of dust and lint around fan blades, motor unit and in ducting

Repair

  • ask the supplier for maintenance or cleaning guidance. Some suppliers have this information available online
  • keeping these units clean is important – there have been cases where dirty heat/light/fan units with a lot of lint inside them have started a fire
  • switch off the power before starting work
  • remove the grille (it may be held in place with clips or screws) and wash it with warm soapy water
  • remove the fan blade unit where possible and wash it with warm soapy water
  • remove lint inside the unit and around the motor with a vacuum cleaner and a small brush attachment
  • check the condition of all the components, especially in very old units. There have been cases where plastic lamp holders have deteriorated, leading to a fire. If you see any signs of heat scorching, burn marks or melting plastic, replace the whole unit or get a registered electrical worker to replace the unit without delay  
  • allow blade unit and grille to dry before reinstalling
  • units should have the fan and heat lamp wired together so that the fan turns on whenever the heat lamp is turned on. If your units does not have this feature (some very old units do not) then have it replaced it with a new unit
  • once the unit has been cleaned, inspect and clean it once every six months or more often if required, following the manufacturers/supplier’s recommendations