April 20, 2023

Downdraft vent articles

From common questions to troubleshooting tips, these articles can help you get the best performance from your downdraft vent. For step-by-step DIY repair instructions and troubleshooting guidance, see our downdraft vent repair help section.

Downdraft Ventilation Systems

Articles and videos common to all downdraft ventilation systems

August 30, 2022
Image for intoruduction section describing Sears PartsDirect website features.

Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier.

August 19, 2022
Introduction image for article on DIY appliance repair safety.

Find out how to stay safe when repairing your appliances.

June 29, 2022
Introduction image for Sears and Sears PartsDirect questions article.

Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.

August 18, 2021
Wiring schematic symbols explained.

Learn some of the most common symbols found in a wiring diagram and what they mean.

April 17, 2019
Downdraft vent common questions.

The most commonly asked questions about downdraft vents are answered by our experts.

October 26, 2016
How to repair broken or damaged wires.

Learn how to repair broken, frayed or damaged wires in your appliances.

January 18, 2016
How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts.

Learn how to use a multimeter to check for wiring problems in an appliance that's not working

February 23, 2015
What to check if a retractable downdraft vent isn't working.

See what to check if you are having a problem with a retractable downdraft vent.

Symptoms common to all downdraft ventilation systems

Choose a symptom to see related downdraft vent repairs.

Main causes: fan control switch failure, bad blower fan motor, broken blower wheel, wiring failure
Main causes: electrical power failure, up/down activation switch problems, vent gear motor failure
Main causes: clogged grease filters, air duct problems, fan motor failure, broken blower wheel
Main causes: problems with the vent limit switches, up/down activation switch failure
Main causes: lack of electrical power, up/down activation switch failure, bad vent gear motor

Repair guides common to all 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.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
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 doesn't run when activated.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
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.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less