A dead or intermittent fan may be caused by its normal controls, the isolator or fused spur, power arriving at the point, or the fan itself. Diagnosis should separate these before anything is replaced.

If the point is hot, cracked, smells burnt or keeps tripping the board, stop using it and call rather than resetting it repeatedly.

Check the normal controls first

  • Check only controls meant for everyday use: the wall switch or pull cord, fan isolator, timer or humidity setting, and any normal reset described by the manufacturer.
  • Note whether the fan runs with the light, after a delay or only when humidity rises, and whether nearby power still works.
  • Do not remove the spur, change an internal fuse, open the fan or touch bathroom equipment with wet hands.

What the electrician separates

  • The checks separate the user controls, accessory, supply and connected equipment before a local repair or replacement is proposed.
  • Bathroom zones, access and the existing switching arrangement affect which work is suitable.
  • If the point is hot, cracked, smells burnt, sparks, has water near it or trips protection, stop using it and call first.
Official sources and further guidance

Need a quick answer on a fan or fused spur issue?

Describe the normal controls, timing or humidity behaviour and whether the problem affects the point, appliance or nearby power.