Start with the exact cupboard and fan
Record model numbers, nameplate information and the current installation instructions. The cupboard’s controls and lighting are only part of the electrical picture: the remote extract fan may have a separate supply and different motor requirements.
A previous installation is useful background, but the new equipment schedule should identify its own voltage, phase, frequency, current and connection requirements. Keep cupboard and fan information clearly labelled so a motor rating is not mistaken for the rating of an internal service outlet.
Our installation planning guide brings the electrical work together with ducting, water, waste and building access.
Fume hood power requirements: a practical schedule
| Equipment | Record |
|---|---|
| Cupboard | Model, supply details, lighting and control loads, outlet ratings and connection drawing. |
| Fan | Motor nameplate, starting method, controller, isolation and control interface. |
| Apparatus | Individual loads, operating duration, start-up demand and intended outlet. |
| Monitoring | Alarms, status signals and any building-management connection. |
The electrician or electrical designer assesses circuit capacity, protection and the installation requirements. Provide the actual equipment data and intended simultaneous use rather than adding an arbitrary allowance.
Keep a distinction between a supply that is present and a supply that is enabled by the cupboard’s controls. The operating sequence must be understood by the people using and maintaining the laboratory.
Voltage is only one part of compatibility
A matching voltage label does not settle phase, frequency, current capacity, protection, connection or control compatibility. Imported laboratory instructions can describe different supply systems, so use the instructions for the actual equipment being installed.
Likewise, fitting a different lamp, fan motor or controller can affect the electrical arrangement. Check the approved replacement information and any resulting changes to the wiring or control sequence. Our fume hood lighting guide covers the information to collect for a lighting fault.
These are planning checks, not wiring instructions. Electrical installation, alterations and fault-finding belong with appropriately qualified people.
Controls, airflow status and safe operating behaviour
Document what starts the fan, what indicates airflow status and how any controlled services behave. If the process requires an interlock, the designer must specify the intended response and how it will be verified. A light being on is not proof that extract airflow is available.
Describe the required behaviour during loss of power, a fan fault and restoration of supply. Some laboratory processes need a deliberate restart sequence. The equipment’s control design and the laboratory’s procedures should agree.
Check that controls and isolation points remain accessible in the final layout. Avoid an arrangement that requires a person to reach through a hazardous work area to deal with a service problem.
Complete the handover and commissioning record
Retain the final equipment schedule, wiring information, circuit identification, operating instructions and commissioning records. Confirm the intended control sequence and the signals visible to the user.
Electrical checks sit alongside ventilation commissioning. The fan direction, speed, delivered airflow and cupboard performance must also be verified through the appropriate process. WorkSafe’s LEV guidance explains the wider need for competent design, checking and maintenance.
For future changes, keep the apparatus list current. A new heated process or additional equipment can affect both electrical loading and the enclosure’s airflow. Discuss the complete task before changing the installation.
Questions about fume hood electrical requirements
Can the cupboard and fan use the same supply?
That depends on the selected equipment and electrical design. Provide separate cupboard and motor data so the electrician can establish the correct arrangement.
Does a working light mean the cupboard is extracting?
No. Lighting and airflow status are different functions. Follow the cupboard’s operating instructions and its airflow indication or monitoring arrangements.