November 01, 2015

How to replace a downdraft vent up/down switch

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the up/down switch on a downdraft vent. The up/down switch, also called a position switch, activates the gear motor to raise and lower the vent when you push the switch button. If the up/down switch won't start the gear motor, replace with switch with the manufacturer-approved downdraft ventilation system part.

Use these steps to replace the up/down switch in Kenmore and Broan downdraft vents.

Quick links

Video

Instructions

Tools required

Work gloves

Phillips screwdriver

Wire cutter

Repair difficulty

Time required

15 minutes or less

How to replace a downdraft vent up/down activating switch repair guide video.

Replacing a downdraft vent up/down activating switch video.

Instructions

01.
Raise the air vent
Push the up/down button to raise the vent.
If the air vent won't rise, pull it up manually and prop up the vent with a block of wood.
02.
Shut off the electricity
Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
03.
Remove the switch cover
Remove the mounting screws and pull the switch cover off.
PHOTO: Remove the switch cover screws.
04.
Pull out the switch bracket
Remove the screws from the switch bracket.
Slide the switch bracket down and then pull the bracket out.
PHOTO: Remove the switch bracket screws.
PHOTO: Slide the switch bracket out.
05.
Remove the speed control switch
Pull the knob off the speed control switch stem.
Remove the speed control switch mounting nut.
Pull the speed control switch out of the switch bracket.
PHOTO: Pull off the control knob.
PHOTO: Remove the fan switch mounting nut.
PHOTO: Pull out the fan control switch.
06.
Remove the up/down switch
Disconnect the up/down switch wires.
Cut off the wire tie to release the up/down switch and speed control switch wires from the switch bracket.
Remove the up/down switch and switch bracket.
The new up/down switch includes a new switch bracket.
PHOTO: Disconnect the up/down switch wires.
PHOTO: Cut the wire tie that holds the switch wires.
PHOTO: Remove the switch and bracket assembly.
07.
Install the new up/down switch
Secure the speed control and up/down switch wires to the new switch bracket using a wire tie.
Connect the up/down switch wires to the up/down switch.
PHOTO: Connect the up/down switch wires.
08.
Reinstall the speed control switch
Reinstall the speed switch on the switch bracket and secure it using the mounting nut.
Reinstall the speed control knob on the stem of the speed control switch.
PHOTO: Reinstall the fan control switch.
PHOTO: Reinstall the fan control knob.
09.
Install the switch bracket
Slide the switch bracket into the vent and reinstall the bracket screws, leaving the screws loose.
Adjust the switch bracket so that the activation switch lightly touches the membrane pad and then tighten the bracket screws firmly.
Tip: Mounting the switch bracket up too high will keep the switch depressed and the vent will raise and lower continuously when power is restored.
Warning: Don't pinch any switch wires when installing the switch bracket.
PHOTO: Install the switch bracket.
10.
Reinstall the switch cover
Reinstall the switch cover and secure it using the mounting screws.
PHOTO: Reinstall the fan control switch cover.
11.
Restore power
Reconnect the power cord.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.