Range hoods make substantial noise while running, that can cause you a little discomfort. However, we (range hood users) ignore that noise because:
- Range hoods keep your kitchen clean and smoke-free.
- You don’t have to hear that noise all day long, but only while cooking. You can even reduce the noise by lowering the power.
But how to deal with a range hood making noise while it’s turned off? You’ll have to endure the noise all day long, which can be too frustrating.
What can be the reasons behind your range hood making noise when off? How to fix it?
Range hoods can make considerable noise even when turned off due to several factors. Some of them include:
- A dirty filter
- Loose parts inside the range hood
- Rainy or stormy weather
- Fan motor malfunction
Some other non-conventional factors may also cause range hood noises while turned off. The question is:
How do you solve this problem?
No need to worry, as you’re at the right place. In this article, I’ll discuss all the factors causing noise inside your range hood. I’ll also list out solutions for each aspect for you to implement.
Let’s dive right in.
Why Range Hood Makes Noise When Off (With Solutions)
Range hoods make a lot of noise when running, but the same is not true when it’s turned off. If your range hood makes noise while not operating, you must fix it ASAP.
Here are all the reasons that can cause this problem in your hood.
Due to Rain or Storm
Since I live by the sea, rain & storm are common. I observed that my range hood made a lot of swooshing and banging noise during heavy storms.
After checking thoroughly, I found the backdraft damper was the culprit here. Because of the strong winds, the flap of my damper was hitting hard against its surface, making loud banging noises.
Similarly, rainwater enters the duct pipe when it rains, causing constant dripping noise.
I’m sure you must’ve had this problem if you live in such an area. This is the most common culprit of range hood making noise when off, especially in areas with heavy winds. But there are some clever ways to solve it.
How to Solve?
The most basic thing you can do is to stick foam on the inside of the damper. You can use double-stick adhesive tape or glue for this purpose. Use it to secure the foam over the flap edges and the body.
Since there wouldn’t be any contact between the metal surfaces, you’ll be free from banging noises.
What I did was install a spring-loaded butterfly damper. Though costly, it provides the best permanent solution for protection against rain & wind.
In case of rainwater dripping noise, you can use a weather flap at the exit point where the backdraft damper is located. It prevents rainwater from entering the duct pipe.
Damaged or Blocked Filter
The filter inside your range hood traps grease, dirt, oily smoke, and other harmful particles produced during cooking. Over time, the filter gets dirty and needs regular cleaning.
If you don’t clean it frequently, the dirt and grease buildup causes a choked or damaged filter. When you run your range hood, the filter won’t let the air pass through it due to the blockage.
This causes a lot of noise while your range hood is operating. However, you may still hear noises when you turn off the hood.
This can be a dripping noise of the excess grease in your filter. Or it can be loud vibration or rumble due to the natural air passing through the filter.
How to Solve?
I think you know the solution if this is the case with you. It’s that simple:
Clean your filters regularly, at least once every two months. While for those who cook a lot of oily & spicy foods, clean the filters every 25-28 days.
You can use items available in your home to clean the range hood filter. Vinegar, baking soda, caustic soda, dishwashing detergents & liquids are everyday household items you can use to clean your filter.
Remember to turn off your range hood and remove the power cord from the outlet.
Debris Inside Fan Blades/Motor
The filter in a range hood helps clear the air of grease, oil, smoke, dust particles, and harmful chemicals & toxins. But with use, filters may become ineffectual.
Due to this, all the dirt & debris passes through, depositing over the fan and motor. So, whenever you turn on your range hood, the stuck debris will interfere with the fan or the motor’s functioning. This results in a loud noise while you’re cooking.
While turned off, the fan or motor may move slightly due to the air pressure difference, causing an irritating & continuous noise.
How to Solve?
Solving this problem is essential so the fan and motor inside the range hood remain damage-free.
To solve this problem, first, turn off your hood and remove the power cord from the outlet. Unscrew the outer cover and locate the fan and its motor.
Use a long brush or the brush on your vacuum cleaner to clear all the dirt & debris from the fan blades and the motor. If too much debris is inside the motor, consider calling for professional help.
Don’t open the motor alone; it can get damaged if you’re unfamiliar with its systems.
Faulty Fan Motor
A faulty motor is another culprit making noise when your range hood is turned off.
This happens when the electric connections inside the motor malfunction, resulting in the motor turning off & on by itself. When turned off, you’ll hear a continuous noise from the motor.
It can also be that the fault lies in your electric connection or the power socket to which the hood is connected.
How to Solve?
The first thing you need to check is your home’s electric connections. Call an electrician and ask them to check all the electric wiring. If everything is fine, it’s time to look at the motor.
Cut off the power, unscrew the outer hood cover, and remove the fan motor. Check for any electrical faults on the outside, like loose or broken wires, short circuits, etc.
If everything’s okay, you must open the motor and check inside for the problem. Now, if you haven’t done this before successfully, it’s better to call a professional.
You can contact your range hood company, who will handle it. If out of warranty period, you may opt for a local electrician too.
Unsecured or Loose Parts
While operating, a range hood produces a lot of vibration, causing the parts inside to become loose over time. It may also happen that some screws or seals remained unsecured during installation.
Whatever the reason, loose or unsecured parts can cause a lot of unnecessary noise in your range hood when it’s off. This happens when air passes through the hood, causing the loose parts to vibrate vigorously.
How to Solve?
You’ll need a lot of time to check for loose parts, so prepare beforehand.
First, cut off the power supply to your range hood. Remove the outer cover and start a thorough inspection. Examine all the screws, seals, and gaskets for any loose connections.
Here are some essential things you need to check:
- If you hear squeaking noise, check whether the motor belt is loose or damaged.
- Check the bearings and replace them if worn out due to use.
- Check the impeller, no-return valve, blower fan, and filters for any loose electrical or mechanical connections. Fasten all the screws and tighten the seals and gaskets.
- A loose power cord can result in a faulty connection, causing the current to flow on & off. This will cause noise inside your motor and the fan. Replace the power cord if it’s already damaged.
After going through the above points, do a detailed inspection again and fix any loose parts.
Improper Installation Method/Location
If your range hood is not installed properly or at the wrong location, it can cause noise while turned off.
A bad installation can include:
- A loose electric connection
- Unsecured seals and screws
- Not fixed in its place.
A location with high airflow can also cause the hood to vibrate and make noise.
How to Solve?
Install the range hood in a proper way. Tighten all the screws, seals, and gaskets. If there is too much airflow around the hood, use cardboard paper to block it.
Always call the company professional for the range hood installation, not a local one.
Damaged Duct Pipe
A damaged duct pipe can let air inside from the external surroundings, causing air pressure differences inside the duct. This results in strong airflow inside the duct pipe, making a lot of swooshing and banging noise.
Here are two common ways through which the air can enter your duct pipe:
- Damaged or no exit flap
- Duct pipe leakage
How to Solve?
In case of duct pipe damage, you must fix it using heavy-duty tape or J-B Weld. If the damage is too much, consider replacing your duct pipe.
If the exit flap is damaged or missing, get a new flap with weather protection. It helps in stopping rainwater from entering the duct pipe.
Also, check your duct pipe thoroughly for any other leakages; if you find any, seal them.
Tips to Keep Your Range Hood Quiet and Efficient
No one likes to hear unnecessary noises when living in your home. If you want your range hood to be quiet and efficient at the same time, follow these simple tips:
- Install soundproofing insulation all over the duct pipe and the range hood. It’s costly but provides a lifetime permanent fix for any noises.
- Use your range hood on lower settings to ensure there’s less noise. Only use the high-power mode when cooking oily & spicy food.
- Don’t set & forget. Range hoods need regular maintenance for optimal performance. Clean the filters every 1-2 months, and check for any damages, loose parts, and leaks.
- Replace the filters if they get damaged beyond repair.
- Use a remote blower to lower the noise in your kitchen.
- Use baffle filters instead of mesh ones.
- Buy a range hood with ideal CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) according to your cooking needs.
Conclusion
Range hoods are a life-saver in the kitchen, even though they make a lot of noise while running. But what if a range hood makes noise when off?
It could be a scary scenario. However, there are several reasons for this, which can be solved pretty easily.
I covered almost all the reasons this could happen to your range hood. Hope you get your answer.
Moreover, follow the best practices while operating your range hood for higher efficiency and a longer lifespan.