1. What is an extractor fan and what does it do?
An extractor fan is a ventilation device that removes stale air, moisture, smoke, odors, and contaminants from an indoor space to improve air quality and prevent problems like mold, dampness, and bad smells.
2. Where are extractor fans commonly used?
Extractor fans are used in kitchens, bathrooms, factories, workshops, restaurants, offices, commercial buildings, and industrial plants.
3. How does an extractor fan work?
It uses a motor-driven fan blade to pull air from inside and push it outside through ducts or vents, improving ventilation and controlling humidity and odors.
4. Why is an extractor fan important in kitchens?
It removes cooking fumes, smoke, grease, and odors, helping maintain a clean and fresh indoor environment.
5. Can extractor fans help reduce mold?
Yes, especially in damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens where moisture buildup can cause mold growth.
Types of Extractor Fans
6. What are the different types of extractor fans?
Common types include axial fans, centrifugal fans, inline fans, industrial fans, and canopy hood extractor fans.
7. What is an axial extractor fan?
An axial fan moves air along the axis of the fan and is typically used in domestic settings like bathrooms and small kitchens.
8. What is a centrifugal extractor fan?
It moves air at a 90-degree angle to the fan’s intake, offering higher pressure airflow — ideal for industrial and commercial spaces.
9. What is an inline extractor fan?
Installed within ductwork, inline fans are hidden and used where space is limited, offering powerful extraction for large rooms.
10. What’s the difference between a domestic and industrial extractor fan?
Domestic fans handle smaller volumes of air and lighter contaminants, while industrial fans manage high volumes of air, heavy fumes, and harsh environments.
Extractor Fan Installation Questions
11. Do extractor fans need to be vented outside?
Ideally, yes. Vented fans expel moisture and contaminants outside, while recirculating fans filter and return air back inside.
12. Can I install an extractor fan myself?
While some DIY installations are possible, professional installation is recommended for proper ducting, safety, and maximum efficiency.
13. Where should I position my extractor fan?
As close as possible to the source of moisture, smoke, or fumes — usually near the stove (kitchen) or shower (bathroom).
14. Can you install an extractor fan without a window?
Yes, especially with inline extractor fans that connect to external vents or roof-mounted ventilation systems.
15. Is it necessary to have an extractor fan in a bathroom?
Yes, especially if there is no natural ventilation (like a window) to prevent dampness and mold.
Extractor Fan Maintenance and Repairs
16. How often should extractor fans be cleaned?
At least every 6 months, but kitchens may require monthly cleaning due to grease buildup.
17. What causes an extractor fan to stop working?
Common reasons include motor failure, blocked ducts, clogged filters, electrical faults, or worn-out fan blades.
18. Can extractor fans be repaired?
Yes. Certified technicians can replace motors, fan blades, switches, and clean or unblock ventilation systems.
19. How long do extractor fans last?
On average, domestic extractor fans last 5–10 years; industrial fans can last longer with regular maintenance.
20. How can I tell if my extractor fan needs replacing?
Signs include reduced airflow, strange noises, complete failure to turn on, or persistent odors in the room.
Industrial Extractor Fans
21. What is an industrial extractor fan?
A heavy-duty fan designed to remove large volumes of air, dust, fumes, and industrial pollutants in factories, warehouses, and plants.
22. How powerful should an industrial extractor fan be?
It depends on room size and pollutant levels, but generally, industrial fans have much higher airflow rates measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) or m³/hr.
23. What are common applications for industrial extractor fans?
Manufacturing plants, welding shops, chemical factories, wood workshops, and food processing plants.
24. Do industrial extractor fans require special maintenance?
Yes. Regular lubrication, motor inspections, duct cleaning, and airflow testing are critical for reliable performance.
25. What safety features should an industrial extractor fan have?
Thermal overload protection, spark-resistant components (for hazardous areas), and proper earthing.
Kitchen Extractor Fans
26. What size extractor fan do I need for my kitchen?
Calculate based on kitchen volume (length × width × height) and ensure the fan changes the air at least 10–12 times per hour.
27. What is a canopy extractor fan?
A large commercial kitchen hood system that extracts heavy grease, smoke, and odors during large-scale cooking.
28. Can I use a domestic kitchen extractor fan in a restaurant?
No. Commercial kitchens require high-capacity canopy or industrial extractor fans for compliance and safety.
29. How do I maintain a kitchen extractor fan?
Clean grease filters monthly, replace carbon filters regularly, and deep clean the fan and ducts annually.
30. Are there extractor fans with built-in grease traps?
Yes, especially in commercial systems where capturing grease before it reaches ductwork is important.
Bathroom and Domestic Extractor Fans
31. Should bathroom extractor fans run all the time?
Not necessarily. They can be fitted with timers or humidity sensors to run only when needed.
32. Can bathroom extractor fans handle shower steam?
Yes, but ensure the fan is powerful enough and properly rated for wet conditions (IP ratings).
33. How noisy are extractor fans?
Noise levels vary. Silent fans produce around 20–30 dB, while larger fans may go up to 60 dB.
34. Why is my bathroom extractor fan dripping water?
Condensation inside ducts is the usual cause, often due to poor insulation or improper installation.
35. Can I install an extractor fan in a rental property?
Yes, but you may need landlord permission depending on lease agreements.
Extractor Fan Efficiency and Energy
36. Are extractor fans energy efficient?
Modern extractor fans are designed to be energy efficient, especially models with EC (electronically commutated) motors.
37. How much electricity does an extractor fan use?
Small domestic fans use around 20–40 watts, while industrial models can use several hundred watts.
38. Are solar-powered extractor fans available?
Yes, solar-powered extractor fans exist, mainly for roof spaces and eco-friendly ventilation systems.
39. How can I improve extractor fan efficiency?
Keep filters clean, ducts unobstructed, and ensure fans are properly sized for the space.
40. Is a carbon filter necessary for an extractor fan?
Only for recirculating extractor fans; carbon filters help remove odors when air isn’t vented outside.
41. What is an explosion-proof extractor fan?
It’s a fan designed to operate safely in hazardous environments where flammable gases or dust are present.
42. Can extractor fans help control airborne contaminants?
Yes, especially industrial fans used in environments like chemical plants, paint shops, and woodworking facilities.
43. What is a humidity-sensing extractor fan?
A fan that automatically turns on or adjusts speed based on moisture levels in the air — ideal for bathrooms.
44. Are smart extractor fans available?
Yes, there are extractor fans integrated with Wi-Fi, app controls, timers, and smart home systems.
45. What certifications should a good extractor fan have?
Look for SABS, CE, ISO certifications, especially for commercial or industrial extractor fans in South Africa.
Extractor Fans in South Africa
46. What are the best extractor fan brands in South Africa?
Some popular brands include Solent, Systemair, Vents, Europlast, and Elta Fans.
47. Can extractor fans withstand South Africa’s climate?
Yes, but it’s essential to choose models designed for heat, humidity, and dust depending on the province.
48. Are there extractor fan regulations in South Africa?
Yes. Building codes often require ventilation for kitchens, bathrooms, and certain industries — check SANS standards.
49. How much does extractor fan installation cost in South Africa?
Domestic installations typically range from R1,500–R5,000, while industrial setups can cost much more depending on size and complexity.
50. Where can I get professional extractor fan repair and installation in South Africa?
You can contact South Africa Extractor Fan Experts, offering installation, maintenance, and repairs across all provinces including Gauteng, Western Cape, KZN, and more.