Clean an extractor fan so it actually extracts

Isolate the fan safely, then strip, clean and test it so it clears steam and smells properly again.

EF-01Gather your tools and dust sheetLay a dust sheet or old towel under the fan to catch drips and grime. You'll need a screwdriver, a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well), a vacuum with a brush attachment, warm water and mild washing-up liquid, and a couple of cloths.

1 each · Dust sheet or old towel

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1 each · Soft-bristle brush

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2 each · Microfibre cloths

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1 bottle · Mild washing-up liquid

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EF-02Turn off the power and prove it's deadMost extractor fans have a local isolator switch nearby (a pull cord, or a small switch on the wall), or they run off a fused connection unit. Turn this off first. If there's no obvious local isolator, or you're not sure which switch controls the fan, switch off the relevant circuit at the consumer unit instead. Prove the fan is dead with a voltage tester before you open the cover, even if you've just flicked a switch off.

EF-03Remove the fan coverMost covers either twist off, unclip at the edges, or are held with two small screws. Check your fan's edges gently with your fingers before forcing anything, cheap plastic covers crack easily. Keep any screws somewhere you won't lose them.

EF-04Wash the cover separatelyWash the cover in warm water with a little washing-up liquid, working into the grille slots with the soft brush to shift trapped dust and grease. Rinse and dry it completely before you refit it, a damp cover left on a running fan just attracts more dust.

EF-05Vacuum the fan housing and bladesWith the cover off, vacuum the exposed blades and housing using the brush attachment on a low setting to lift loose dust and fluff without pulling on the wiring. Do this before wiping, so you're not just smearing dust into a paste.

EF-06Wipe down the blades by handDampen a cloth with warm water and a drop of washing-up liquid, then wipe each blade individually. Turn the blades gently by hand as you go rather than letting the cloth spin them, forcing the motor to spin fast can damage the bearings.

EF-07Check the outside grille and ductGo outside (or into the loft, if the duct runs that way) and check the external wall or roof vent. Clear away any cobwebs, leaves or debris, and check the flap opens and closes freely, a stuck flap stops air escaping even with a spotless fan.

EF-08Refit the coverMake sure the cover is completely dry, then clip or screw it back on in the same way it came off. Check it sits flush and isn't rubbing on the blades before you move on.

EF-09Restore power and test the airflowSwitch the isolator or consumer unit back on and run the fan for a minute. It should sound smoother and quieter than before. Hold a single sheet of tissue paper near the grille, it should be pulled in and held there, showing the fan is actually extracting.

EF-10Tidy upWipe down the surrounding ceiling or wall where dust may have settled. Rinse your cloths and brush, and bin any fluff or debris from the duct check. Note the date somewhere handy, a clean every three to six months keeps most fans working well.

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