April 19, 2023

DIY downdraft vent repair

When you press the activation button on your downdraft vent, you expect the vent to raise and remove cooking odors and smoke coming from your cooktop. When your kitchen is filling with smoke and smells because your downdraft vent isn't working, Sears PartsDirect has the troubleshooting advice you need to fix the problem. The symptoms below can guide you to the right solution for the problem and our DIY repair guides show you how to install the repair parts to fix your downdraft vent.

Our downdraft vent articles and videos help you with maintenance and troubleshooting tips. To find the owner’s manual or a complete list of replacement parts for your downdraft vent, search for your model number.

Downdraft Ventilation Systems

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

Articles and videos common to all downdraft ventilation systems

Use the advice and tips in these articles to get the most out of your downdraft vent.

August 19, 2022

Are DIY appliance repairs safe?

Are DIY appliance repairs safe?

Find out how to stay safe when repairing your appliances.

August 18, 2021

Wiring schematic symbols explained video

Wiring schematic symbols explained video

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

February 23, 2015

Troubleshooting tips for a rectractable downdraft vent

Troubleshooting tips for a rectractable downdraft vent

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