Extractor Fan Fitting and Replacement

Are you planning on fitting a new extractor fan or replacing an old model with a more advanced option? We believe that's why you are here today. Whatever the case, here at Excel Electricians, we know smart homeowners like you may have some questions.
Since we have been getting lots of queries from clients, we thought it would be best to create a post dedicated to answering the fundamental questions.
We have covered everything you need to know on this subject, including the cost of fitting an extractor fan and building regulations regarding extractor fans.

• We begin with an inspection. If you need to fit an extractor fan for the first time, our skilled and friendly technicians will visit your home to determine the right Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) rating. We will also determine the wiring needs and decide on a suitable area for installing the fan. In case you're planning on replacing the fan, our technicians will ensure your electrical circuit complies with the IEE Wiring Regulations.
  
  
• Excel Electricians will run a test on the independent power circuit to rule out any potential fault in your electrical system. If we identify a problem, we will carefully fix it to ensure your family and home is safe. Fitting or replacing a fan is a lot easier once we have addressed the electrical concerns.
   
• Excel Electricians will run a test on the independent power circuit to rule out any potential fault in your electrical system. If we identify a problem, we will carefully fix it to ensure your family and home is safe. Fitting or replacing a fan is a lot easier once we have addressed the electrical concerns. 
  
  
• We have the tools and expertise to complete even the most demanding tasks within the shortest time possible without compromising on quality. With the professional team of technicians at Excel Electricians, you know you are in safe hands.
  
  
• Once we are done fitting an extractor fan, our technicians will run the final electrical and functional tests. We will then clean up the mess. Better yet, we will also provide you with a copy of Electric Appliance Installation. The license serves as proof in case the authorities want to confirm whether you abide by the health and safety standards.

Always make sure to switch off the power supply to the extractor fan before you start removing the outer cover and extractor fan. It is also advisable to clean your extractor fan when the hood has cooled down.

You will need to wash the outer cover with warm water and mild dish soap that you use for your regular dishes. Take an old toothbrush and scrub the dirt build-up in its crevices. Rinse the cover with warm water before drying it thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel.
To clean an extractor fan, you just wipe the dirty areas using a soft cloth moistened with the warm soapy water. Ensure the blades and inside of the fan is dry before reinstalling.

Don't forget to clean an essential component of an extractor fan - the filter.
However, if you have a carbon or paper filter, then washing it might not be an option. You should consider replacing it when it's time. 

First off, disassemble the extractor fan to get the filter. Next, place your metal or sponge filter in a sink filled with hot soapy water. You don't need a special type of soap. Mild dish soap will do the trick.
Let the extractor fan filter soak in the hot soapy water for approximately 10 minutes to loosen dirt and grime. Use a soft scrubbing sponge to remove leftover grease and dirt. Get a toothbrush and scrub off the dirt stuck in the hard-to-reach areas of the filter.
Once the filter is clean, make sure you dry both sides and all edges thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel. Leave the filter to air-dry before placing it back in the extractor fan. 

Building regulations, which have been in effect since 2006, require property owners to install some form of extract ventilation in kitchens built from that year. Well, this generally applies to kitchens that do not have enough natural ventilation sources to create a safe and comfortable indoor environment.
If you are considering a kitchen extension, you must not worsen the existing ventilation. You should retain or replace it with a system that has a higher extraction rate, depending on the location of the kitchen. That's why homeowners are required to notify a building control body before starting the renovation or home improvement project.
Fitting an extractor fan in your kitchen is one of the best ways to meet the building regulations. Extractor fans are a perfect option because they are the only option that can be fitted above a hob.
Please note that you cannot use a recirculation hood. Filtering air and releasing it back around your kitchen room is not enough to pass the building regulations compliance test. The kitchen extractor fan must release air to an outside vent and meet the extraction airflow rate of 60 L/s or more as outlined in the Approved Documents. 

Your bathroom extractor fan works with electricity, a reason enough you should never attempt to replace it by yourself unless you're are a trained and experienced electrician.
While the DIY approach can save you money, it poses a safety threat to you and your family members. Besides risking being electrocuted, you can also create a fire hazard that might burn down your house.
Certified electricians at Excel Electricians have a wealth of experience and are equipped with advanced tools to get the job done correctly, the first time.
Our technicians will carefully inspect the installation area to ensure it can safely accommodate your new extractor fan, especially if you are fitting a more advanced fan.
We turn off the power supply at the circuit breaker or switch, remove the existing fan, fit the new bathroom extractor fan, and then secure the wiring. Lastly, we run electrical and functional tests to make sure everything is working properly. 

Fortunately, running an extractor fan is not as expensive as most homeowners in the UK believe. Thanks to advancement in technology, today we have Energy Star bathroom and kitchen fans that can help you save money on utility bills. You will find high efficient models that use up to 70 per cent less energy than the conventional models.
Don't know how to choose an energy-efficient extractor fan? Excel Electrician can help. One of our trusted electricians will walk you through the best possible options you can find on the market. They will help you make an informed decision based on the unique needs of your kitchen or bathroom.