Tripod member ALPHAGAL asks:
I have a range exhaust hood that simply stopped working, like it is getting no power. Is there anything I can check or do before calling a service person or getting a new one? I feel that a service call would probably cost almost as much as buying a new one. It is a top of the line GE, about 10 years old with reostat light and speed.

Handy Girl Bernadette suggests:
Well, it sounds like the motor is shot, but before we declare it dead let's check the incoming power source. Perhaps it's just not getting any juice. Before you do anything else, shut off the power at the circuit panel. Next, get inside the access panel on the oven hood. Check to see if all the wires are still connected. If the wires are all connected you need to check to see if the incoming wires are working. To do this you'll need an electrical tester — these are $2.00 and can be purchased at any hardware/home store. Again, make sure your power source is turned OFF at the circuit panel and unscrew the wire nuts which connect the oven hood wires to the power source wires. Make sure now that the wires are not touching each other or any other surface. If they are this will cause a short. Now, turn the source back on and test the wires with the electrical tester. Got power? Then it's time for either a new hood or new motor, which can be purchased through your local GE supplier. No? Time to call the electrician. One last thing. After you test the power with the tester don't forget to TURN OFF THE POWER before doing anything else. This is basic electrics and can be attempted by any homeowner but if you're too nervous about it, get somebody to help you.

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