Bathroom exhaust fans are important equipment in the bathroom, which can remove moisture and odors and keep the air fresh. However, there are times when an extractor fan may become noisy or not run, which may be due to dust buildup, worn parts, or a faulty circuit. Below we share some ways to solve the problem of noisy and non-functioning bathroom extractor fans.
1. Clean the extractor fan
Noisy and non-operating problems are usually caused by dust accumulation on the extractor fan. First, disconnect the power source, then use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth to clean the outside of the extractor fan and the fan blades. Make sure you clean it thoroughly and do it regularly to prevent the problem from happening again.
2. Check the fan blades
Sometimes, the fan blades of the exhaust fan may be bent or damaged, which may cause noise and non-operation issues. Check that the fan blades are installed correctly and not damaged, and replace them with new ones if necessary.
3. Check the circuit
If the problem persists after cleaning and inspecting the fan blades, it may be due to a faulty circuit. Check whether the circuit connection is normal, whether the power supply is normal, and make sure the switch and connecting lines are functioning properly. If a circuit fault is found, please contact professional technicians for repair.
4. Lubricate the bearings
If the exhaust fan bearings are not lubricated it may cause noise problems. After disconnecting the power supply, lubricate the bearings with oil or lubricant to ensure smooth bearing operation.
Finally, regular maintenance and cleaning of your bathroom extractor fan is key to keeping it functioning properly. If you are unable to solve the problem of the exhaust fan being noisy or not running, it is recommended to contact a professional technician for repairs to avoid more serious problems.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs' latest "Regulations on Consumer Electrical Equipment Installation" and the key points of electricity safety in old houses
Due to the popularity of high-power household appliances (such as air fryers, microwave ovens, dishwashers, instantaneous electric water heaters, and IH furnaces) in recent years, the Energy Administration of the Ministry of Economic Affairs has revised the "Regulations on Consumer Electrical Equipment Installation" many times to strictly require the diversion and protection mechanisms of residential electricity circuits. Statistics show that more than 30% of building fires in Taiwan are caused by electrical factors, among which "old wire insulation deteriorates and short circuits", "socket contacts are oxidized and loose, poor contact" and "non-fuse switch (NFB) overloaded and failed to trip" are the three main fatal causes.
Old apartments in Shuangbei that are more than 30 years old have a total original designed power capacity of only 30A to 40A, and several rooms often share the same 1.6mm or 2.0mm circuit. In the modern standard safety configuration, kitchen electrical cabinets, bathroom equipment, and air-conditioning and heating machines must all be equipped with 5.5mm² dedicated circuits (single circuit and single socket). It is recommended that the main switch box be upgraded to a busbar (Busbar) integrated distribution board, and the total amperage is increased to 75A or 100A (a qualified electrical appliance contractor needs to be entrusted to Taipower to review the additional power capacity).
Residential electricity self-test and regular inspection checklist
- Appearance and temperature of the socket: Touch the outer cover of the commonly used socket lightly with the back of your hand. If it feels lukewarm or if you find that the plastic socket is yellowed and charred, or the plug is loose and shaking after being plugged in, it means that the internal copper plate clamping force is exhausted or the contact resistance is too high, and you should immediately cut off the power and replace it.
- Regular testing of earth leakage circuit breakers (ELCB):For leakage circuit breakers in humid places such as balconies, bathrooms, and kitchen sinks, regulations require that the "TEST button" on the switch be pressed once every 1 to 3 months to confirm that it can automatically trip and cut off the power supply instantly.
- Serial connection and overloading of extension cords are strictly prohibited: Extension cords should be purchased with 2.0mm thick wire diameter products that have CNS certification and automatic overload power-off protection. Do not share the same extension cord with high energy-consuming appliances to ensure zero hidden danger to life and property at home.
