November 01, 2015

How to replace a downdraft vent up/down button pad

How to replace a downdraft vent up/down button pad

This DIY repair guide shows how to replace the up/down button pad on a downdraft vent. The up/down button pad activates the up/down switch when you push the pad. If the pad wears out or is damaged, the pad won’t activate the switch, and the vent won’t move. Replace a damaged or worn pad with the manufacturer-approved downdraft ventilation system part.

This repair procedure works for Kenmore, Broan, GE, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Frigidaire and Electrolux downdraft vents.

Quick links
Tools required
Rubbing alcohol
Cleaning cloth
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
How to replace a downdraft vent button pad repair guide video.

Replacing a downdraft vent button pad video.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the electricity

    Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

  2. 02.

    Remove the up/down button pad

    Grasp one corner of the up/down button pad and peel the pad off from the top cover.

    PHOTO: Peel off the button pad.

    PHOTO: Peel off the button pad.

  3. 03.

    Clean the mounting surface

    Clean adhesive and residue from the mounting surface using rubbing alcohol.

    PHOTO: Clean the button pad mounting surface.

    PHOTO: Clean the button pad mounting surface.

  4. 04.

    Install the new up/down button pad

    Peel off the adhesive backing on the new up/down pad. Center the up/down button pad above the switch and press down around the outer edges.

    PHOTO: Peel off the adhesive backing.

    PHOTO: Peel off the adhesive backing.

    PHOTO: Attach the new button pad.

    PHOTO: Attach the new button pad.

  5. 05.

    Restore power

    Reconnect the power cord.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.

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

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

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 …

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a downdraft vent gear motor

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

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.

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

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

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

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

How to repair broken or damaged wires video

How to repair broken or damaged wires video

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