Exhaust fans quietly do important work – they pull out moisture, smells and stale air. But because you don’t see them in action, it’s easy to forget about them until they stop working completely.

Testing them a few times a year – turning each one on, listening for strange noises, and checking if air is actually being pulled through – helps catch problems early. If the fan barely moves air, makes grinding sounds, or doesn’t start at all, you know it needs cleaning, repair or replacement.

In bathrooms, weak exhaust fans mean steam stays trapped, which encourages mould on ceilings and walls. In kitchens, poor extraction leaves grease and odours hanging around.

A quick test and occasional cleaning of covers and blades keeps these small machines doing their job properly, which protects your home and makes living spaces more pleasant.