Troubleshooting tips for a rectractable downdraft vent
A retractable downdraft vent is a great space-saving solution in a kitchen where an over-the-range vent hood is not practical. This is especially true for kitchen island installations. The retractable vent sits neatly behind the cooktop, and stays level with the countertop when not in use. Here are the most common problems with retractable downdraft vents and possible solutions.
Not working at all
If the vent isn’t working at all, follow these steps to resolve the issue:
Make sure there’s not a problem with the power cord. Unplug the power cord and check its wiring connections. Reconnect any loose wires.
Check the house circuit box for a tripped breaker or blown fuse. Reset the vent circuit breaker if it's tripped. Replace the vent's fuse if it's blown.
If the power supply looks okay, the issue may be the power switch. Replace the power switch it doesn't send current to the fan motor and drive motor when you turn on the vent.
Telescopic vent travel problems
If the vent comes on but will not raise, lower all the way or lower at all, look for an obstruction in the path of the intake area. Unplug the unit before removing the obstruction. Some retractable vents have a switch that is activated by the filter–the vent will not work if the filter is not installed correctly. If the filter looks okay, there may be a problem with the drive motor or drive arm.
Cooktop spills going down into the vent
If a spill occurs on the cooking surface and seeps down into the vent system, immediately turn the vent off. Damage could occur if water gets inside the vent while it’s operating. Unplug the vent and let it dry naturally. Do not open the vent system to remove the water. Once the unit is dry, clean the vent’s exposed surfaces following the instructions in your owner's manual.
Most common symptoms to help you fix your downdraft ventilation systems
Choose a symptom to see related downdraft vent repairs.
Main causes: lack of electrical power, up/down activation switch failure, bad vent gear motor…
Main causes: electrical power failure, up/down activation switch problems, vent gear motor failure…
Main causes: problems with the vent limit switches, up/down activation switch failure…
Main causes: fan control switch failure, bad blower fan motor, broken blower wheel, wiring failure…
Main causes: clogged grease filters, air duct problems, fan motor failure, broken blower wheel…
Most common repair guides to help fix your downdraft ventilation systems
These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your downdraft vent.
How to replace a downdraft vent up/down switch
The up/down switch starts the gear motor to raise and lower the air vent. Replace the up/down switch if defective.…
How to replace a downdraft vent blower motor
The blower motor spins the fan blade that removes smoke and steam from the cooktop area. Replace the blower motor if it …
How to replace a downdraft vent gear motor
The gear motor raises and lowers the air vent when you push the activating switch. Replace the gear motor if defective.…
Effective articles & videos to help repair your downdraft ventilation systems
Use the advice and tips in these articles to get the most out of your downdraft vent.
Learn how to repair broken, frayed or damaged wires in your appliances.…
Learn how to use a multimeter to check for wiring problems in an appliance that's not working…
See what to check if you are having a problem with a retractable downdraft vent.…