SOP: Troubleshooting Suction Concerns / Weak Motor (Fan Not Pulling Air)
Macro: Range Hood: Weak Motor
Purpose: Assist customers with weak suction or fan motor concerns in range hoods.
Steps:
Confirm Issue: Verify that the issue is weak suction or air not being pulled effectively.
Guide Customer Through Checks:
Ask the customer to ensure dampers are fully functional and not obstructed.
Request a paper test video (make sure filters are installed) to observe suction performance on all fan speeds.
Provide them with the test video as an example: Paper Test Video
If Damper Is Obstructed or Non-Functional:
Advise the customer to clear any obstructions or remove tape/sticker holding the damper closed (if any).
Follow-Up:
Request the customer to update on the suction test results and if further assistance is required.
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Procedure
Step 1: Initial Customer Communication
Confirm Issue: Verify that the customer reports weak airflow or insufficient air suction.
Use Macro: Respond using the RH::SUCTION CONCERNS / WEAK MOTOR macro, providing initial troubleshooting instructions.
Macro Response:
Hello {{ticket.requester.first_name}},
Thank you for your business and patience. Our range hoods are designed to be user-friendly. If you’re experiencing issues with the motor or air suction, please review the steps below:
Check if the dampers are fully functional and open.
Provide us with a video showing the paper test on all speed settings (make sure the filters are installed).
Please refer to this example for the paper test: Paper Test Video
Thank you, and we look forward to assisting further if needed.
Step 2: Troubleshoot Damper Functionality
Instruct Customer to Check the Damper:
Ask the customer to ensure that the damper is open. Sometimes, a sticker or tape is applied to the damper during installation to keep it closed and prevent debris from entering the blower assembly.
If the damper is closed, advise the customer to remove any stickers or tape, then open the damper fully.
Request Paper Test Video:
If the damper is confirmed open, ask the customer to perform a paper test to assess airflow.
Instruct them to use a tissue or lightweight paper and hold it up to the hood intake on each fan speed, ensuring the filters are installed.
Request that they record a video of the test and share it with you for further assessment.
Example Video: Refer customers to this paper test video for guidance: Paper Test Video
Step 3: Determine Next Steps Based on Findings
If the Hood is New and the Damper is Open:
If the unit is recently purchased, and the damper is open but suction remains weak, proceed with a replacement unit.
If Suction Remains Weak After Troubleshooting:
Confirm if other factors could be affecting performance, such as blockages in the ductwork.
If no issues are identified with the ducting, proceed with sending a replacement if the unit is under warranty or within the return period.
Step 4: Resolution and Documentation
Confirm Resolution: After sending a replacement or resolving the issue with the damper, confirm with the customer that the range hood is now functioning properly.
Log Case: Document the case, noting the steps taken, any videos received, and the final resolution.
Escalate if Necessary: If the issue persists or there are additional technical concerns, escalate to the technical support team for further assistance.
Additional Notes
Safety Reminder: Ensure the customer knows to power off the unit before accessing the damper.
Attachments: Include any visual guides or additional videos if needed for damper inspection and troubleshooting.