The best bathroom exhaust fans: Best Bathroom Fans for Powder Rooms of All Sizes

Best Bathroom Fans for Powder Rooms of All Sizes

Keep air circulating, humidity down and mold at bay with these bathroom fans.

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Exhaust fans are critical in rooms with small or no windows at all. Ironically, these window-challenged rooms, like laundry rooms and bathrooms, are most often the ones that have excessive amounts of moisture. The best bathroom fan will suck moist, humid air out of a room and exchange it with fresh, dry air from the outside.

A well-made bathroom fan will not only refresh stale air but will prevent condensation, eliminate odors and stop mold from forming. Here are our picks for the best bathroom fans to dry your damp lavatory.

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Best Bathroom Fan with Ultraviolet Light

Broan NuTone SurfaceShield Bathroom Fan

Indoor air quality is more important than ever, which is why we chose the Broan-NuTone SurfaceShield as one of our top performers. It uses patented antimicrobial violet light-emitting diode (LED) light technology and powerful ventilation to protect against bacteria, mold, mildew and fungal growth. DIYers will especially appreciate the Ezduct connector for easy room-side installation—no attic access is required.

Pros

• Two lighting modes
• TrueSeal damper reduces air leakage
• Comes with SnapFit Flange Kit
• 3-year warranty

Cons

• Faceplate can come loose

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Most Decorative Bathroom Fan

Hunter Halcyon Bathroom Fan

Cast in contemporary chrome with a swirled marble glass cover, the Hunter Halcyon Bathroom Fan is designed to look good while removing excess moisture from your bathroom. Aesthetically, the fan mounts flush to the ceiling to maintain a sleek profile. On the practical side, the Halcyon boasts an airflow of 90 CFM and can be installed so that the fan and light work together or independently.

Pros

• Stylish appearance
• Light is included
• Built-in damper
• Heat- and water-resistant

Cons

• Not fitting for large bathrooms

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Best Overall Bathroom Fan

Panasonic WhisperChoice

Of all the fans on this list, the Panasonic WhisperChoice is best suited for large bathrooms. Besides removing unhealthy air at a rate that exceeds industry standards, the versatile ceiling fan provides the proper airflow based on the size of the bathroom or the amount of moisture.

Toggle between 130 cubic feet per minute (just what you need for standard-sized bathrooms) and the more powerful 150 CFM (ideal for large and en suite bathrooms). It’s also UL Listed, so it can safely be placed above a shower enclosure. Plus, it comes with a Flex-Z Fast bracket for fast installation.

Pros

• Made of durable galvanized steel
• Can handle larger bathrooms
• Low-profile housing
• 6-year motor warranty

Cons

• Doesn’t have a built-in heater

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Most Quiet Bathroom Fan

Panasonic WhisperCeiling Bathroom Fan

A noisy fan can discourage people from using it, rendering it ineffective. That won’t be a reality with the Panasonic WhisperCeiling bathroom fan. Noiseless and powerful, its SmartFlow technology senses static pressure and adjusts the speed accordingly for optimal output. Additionally, the fan has a Flex-Z Fast bracket and a 4- or 6-inch duct adapter for simple installation.

Pros

• Noiseless
• Airflow selector has low, medium and high speeds
• Energy Star certified
• Compliant with most building codes and standards

Cons

• Doesn’t have a light

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Best Bathroom Fan with Heater

Delta Electronics BreezRadiance Fan with Heater

Wouldn’t it be nice to get out of the tub or shower in a warm, toasty environment? With the BreezRadiance bathroom fan, you can. The best bathroom fan for chilly and under-insulated bathrooms, the BreezRadiance comes with a built-in thermostat to regulate temperature. And the heating element does more than add comfort. Keeping your bathroom warm also inhibits vapors from condensing on floors, walls, ceilings and furniture.

Pros

• Heating element with built-in thermostat
• Energy-efficient
• Galvanized steel construction
• DC brushless motor for longevity

Cons

• Air heats in one direction only

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Best Budget Bathroom Fan

Broan-NuTone Ceiling and Wall Ventilation Fan

Plug-in ready, the Broan-NuTone Ceiling and Wall Ventilation Fan is a steal at less than $25. Fitting for half baths and small powder rooms, the compact fan with torsion-spring grille mounting installs easily between ceiling joists and wall studs without tools.

Moreover, the galvanized steel housing stands up to corrosion, and the polymeric damper prevents cold backdrafts. This best bathroom fan pick is UL Listed, so it’s approved for use directly in tub or shower enclosures.

Pros

• Less than $25
• Doesn’t require professional installation
• Made in the USA
• Can continuously run to constantly remove contaminants

Cons

• Not ideal for large bathrooms

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Best Bathroom Fan with Humidity Detector

Delta Electronics BreezGreenBuilder Exhaust Fan

Another standout from Delta Electronics, the dual-speed BreezGreenBuilder Exhaust Fan has a sensor that automatically kicks on the fan when the humidity level reaches a certain threshold. Available in either 80 or 100 CFM (and with or without an LED light), the fan is engineered with a direct-current brushless motor to ensure optimal reliability.

Pros

• On-board humidity sensor
• Impeller stops if obstructed for safety
• Hanger bars included
• Remote-controlled

Cons

• Intended for new construction only

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Best Smart Bathroom Fan

Broan-NuTone Sensonic Bathroom Exhaust Fan

Equipped with dual, high-fidelity Sensonic speakers with Bluetooth functionality, the Broan-NuTone Sensonic lets you play your favorite tunes, listen to the news or catch up on your daily podcasts while bathing or getting ready for the day. The best bathroom fan for music lovers pairs with Bluetooth-enabled devices in seconds, leaving electrical outlets free for your getting-ready necessities.

Pros

• Connects to Bluetooth-enabled devices
• Quiet ventilation
• Covers rooms up to 105 square feet
• 3-year warranty

Cons

• Ceiling mount only

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Types of Bathroom Fans

There are three different types of bathroom fans to choose from:

• Ceiling-mounted: The optimal position to draw moisture from the bathroom (since warm, moist air rises) is venting through the roof. However, if there’s a problem that needs to be fixed, ceiling-mounted bathroom fans can be more difficult to access.
• Wall-mounted: Since these fans may be mounted and vented through an exterior wall, there’s often no need for ducting. They tend to be easier to repair, but backdrafting can be an issue.
• Inline: This type of bathroom fan can be installed within the home’s existing ductwork (often in the attic). The advantage to an inline fan is that it can exhaust more than one area of the house at the same time. The downside? They’re more complicated to install.

How We Found the Best Bathroom Fans

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject-matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.

FAQ

What are bathroom fans for?

The best bathroom fans get rid of excess moisture, odors and pollutants. They also remove vapor that fogs up mirrors and shower doors. In addition to providing proper ventilation in the bathroom, you’ll breathe easier and be much more comfortable.

How do bathroom fans work?

Simply put, a bathroom fan sucks the air out of a room, sending it outside through ductwork. For optimal performance, ensure your chosen bathroom fan is powerful enough for the space and properly installed.

Can bathroom fans run continuously?

Although continuously running the fan can remove excess humidity and contaminants in the air, it could cause the motor to wear out, and increase fire risk from dust and lint collecting in the grate. Be sure to clean exhaust fans of debris periodically.

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Originally Published: September 24, 2021

Toni DeBella

Toni DeBella is a culture and lifestyle writer, reviews expert and DIYer covering everything from pests to pool cabanas to painting. For over a decade, Toni was the owner of a successful faux finishing, mural and children’s furniture business before moving to a career in writing. Her work has appeared in The Telegraph, Fodor’s, Italy Magazine, DK Eyewitness travel guides and others. She lives in a medieval hill town in Italy where her bicycle “Raoul” serves as her primary mode of transportation.

Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan — Annie & Oak

It is hard to understand the power of a good bathroom exhaust or extractor fan until you experience a good one for the first time.

A quiet and powerful exhaust fan can take your bathroom from a moldy mess that smells damp to a fresh-smelling paradise where you can relax and unwind after a long day.

However, finding a good fan can be a problem for many.

They want something that works quickly and is powerful but isn’t too loud.

Some people also want extractors fans that come with built-in heaters and lights.

Whatever you are looking for, we are going to help you find the best fan for you today.

Below, we have reviewed 5 top of the range bathroom exhaust fans.

The Broan-NuTone 765H80LB Bathroom Exhaust Heater and Light is our top pick because not only does it do everything you could want an exhaust fan to do.

But it does it flawlessly, too.

Let’s start with the elephant in the room – yes, this is one of the most expensive exhaust fans on this list.

But, we think that this fan does enough and does it well enough to justify the price.

This fan is made at such a high quality that you will have to replace it less regularly than any other fan on the market.

This fan also comes with a long warranty – over 5 years and you can also purchase an extended warranty for the fan online.

The fan is an investment, but it is one that will pay off over time, as you find yourself not having to replace it every few years.

As you can tell by its title, the Broan-NuTone 765H80LB Bathroom Exhaust Heater and Light comes with both a heater and a built-in light.

The fan is designed so that you can use the LED lighting in the body of the fan to light your bathroom.

Or you can slot it over your already existing lights and use it that way.

LED lights have an incredibly long lifespan and there is a small panel that you can move to get access to your original lightbulb if you need to change it.

The Broan-NuTone 765H80LB also comes with a 1300 Watt heater.

This can be used to both warm your bathroom and help to dry more quickly and more thoroughly.

If you like in a damp area or an area where the houses are made of porous stone then this could help to keep away the black mold.

The fan itself is nearly silent, despite operating at a speed of 80 CFMs.

You will find that this fan can clear a steamy room in less than 10 minutes and it can completely dry it in 15-20 minutes.

If you are looking for an easy to use and easy to install fan that can do everything you could want it to do.

We think it is as close to perfect as an exhaust fan can get.

Pros

• Well made
• Easy to use
• Long warranty
• Will suit most bathrooms
• Easy to install
• Comes with a light
• Comes with a powerful heater

Cons

• Expensive

This fan is very different from the Broan-NuTone 765H80LB, but it is still a great fan that has a lot to offer a lot of people.

The AC Infinity AIRLIFT T10, Shutter Exhaust Fan has no light in it but it does offer some of the best temperature and humidity control on the market.

One of the real selling points of this fan is how easy it is to install.

This fan really is so simple to install that most people could do it on their own, without having to call in an electrician.

It is also the perfect size to slot into the hole where your previous fan sat.

A lot of more modern fans are on the bigger side, and you may find yourself having to drill a new hole to fit them into. But not this fan.

Our favorite thing about this fan is the control panel that it comes with.

This panel takes this from a simple bathroom exhaust fan to being an AC unit that has control over the temperature and the humidity in the room.

And all of this can be done with a few clicks of a button.

The one issue that we have with this fan is that if you turn it up too high, it gets very loud.

We would have hoped that a fan that costs this much would be a lot quieter.

Any fan that costs over $100 should be next to silent in our opinion. This really disappointed us.

We also noticed that the black color of this fan meant that it really stood out in our bathroom – against all the white and soft blues.

However, if you have a darker bathroom then this would really not be an issue.

So, this is a great product that is easy to install and has a lot to offer.

It is only really let down by the fact that it’s very loud when working hard and it could clash with the color of many people’s bathrooms.

Black fans do not show the dirt as easily as white fans, however, which is a bonus.

Pros

• Easy to install
• Well made
• Offers temperature and humidity control
• Easy to use
• Comes with a remote to control it – adjustable settings

Cons

• No light
• Black could clash with many bathrooms
• Loud
• Expensive

The Endurance Pro Universal Bathroom Vent is a very simple fan that could be the best choice for anyone looking to save money.

The main selling point of the Endurance Pro Universal Bathroom Vent performs like a fan that costs a lot more than it actually costs.

When you are buying this fan you should be aware that you are only getting the fan blades and the motor – you are not getting a cover or any other kind of setting.

However, if you purchase it from Amazon, you can get housing and a cover for this fan for under $10.

Apart from having no cover, this fan doesn’t really have many flaws.

There are two places where we have noticed room for improvement – in the installment process and in the lifespan of the fan.

You may want to have an electrician come in and install this for you if you are not very handy.

You will also find that where a lot of the fans on this list will last for 7+ years, you will have to replace this one every couple of years.

However, if you don’t want to spend $100, $50, or even $30 on your bathroom exhaust fan then this could be the option for you.

This fan is quiet but powerful. It performs like a premium fan despite being an absolute bargain.

This is just loud enough for you to tell that the fan is on, but not loud enough to be disturbing or grating while you are in the bathroom.

Pros

• Amazing price
• Well made
• Very fast

Cons

• No cover
• No light or heater
• Doesn’t last as long as the more expensive models
• Slightly tricky to install

The Tech Drive Super-Quiet Bathroom Ventilation and Exhaust Fan is going to be the best friend of anyone who likes to take long baths without being disturbed by their exhaust fan.

The noise made by this fan only registers as 0.8 stone – the next quietest fan on this list registers as 2 stone.

That shows you how quiet this is.

However, you don’t have to compromise power for that quietness.

It offers 90 CFM in a 25 square foot room.

This fan comes with a 2-year warranty and promises at least 25,000 hours (that’s 1041 full days) of use.

It comes with a white cover that is easy to clean and that suits most bathrooms.

However, if quietness is not your top priority then you will find that this fan does not offer much else for its high price tag.

It comes with no light, no remote, and also has no heating features.

Pros

• Unbelievably quite
• Easy to install
• Well made

Cons

• Expensive*
• No light or heater

*There is a slightly louder and older model of this fan available for half the price.

If you have a small bathroom that does not need a state of the art exhaust fan then you might be interested in the HUGOOME Exhaust Fan Ventilation Extractor with Anti-backflow Check.

This is a well priced, low powered fan that would be perfect for a small bathroom, wetroom, or shower room.

This fan is only 4 inches and will take less than 10 minutes to install.

It is a 12 Watt fan that has an anti-backflow check valve that prevents dust, odors, or any unwanted gases from being cycled back into the room.

It is a quiet fan that is suited for a smaller room, as it won’t give you a headache if you have to listen to it for a long time.

But it is not really powerful enough for a bigger room.

The only real issue we have with a fan is that it is smaller than the average fan, so you would have to carve out a custom hole for the fan and its cover.

Pros

• Good cost
• Filter
• Quiet
• Easy to install

Cons

• Not powerful enough for a big room
• Smaller than average fan and body

Buyer’s Guide

So, you have just spent a lot of money revamping your bathroom and you need to choose an exhaust fan to keep the room mold free?

Or, has your old fan just died of old and now you need to replace it?

No matter your reason for needing a new exhaust fan for your bathroom, this buyer’s guide will be able to help you find your next one.

In this guide, we are going to look at what makes a good fan and how you can work out what type of fan suits your needs best.

Sound Quality

When picking out a new fan for your bathroom, we would recommend looking at how loud the fan is first.

A quiet bathroom fan will measure between 0 – 2 stone. An acceptable bathroom fan will measure between 2 – 3 stone.

And a loud bathroom fan will measure 3+ stone.

If the fan is less than 1 stone then you will struggle to hear it at all.

2 stones will be enough to let you know that the fan is on, but not so loud that it will disturb you.

3 stones will be very frustrating to spend more than 5 minutes around.

Power

When it comes to the power of a fan, the statistic you are going to be most interested in is its CFM (cubic feet per minute).

This statistic will show you how quickly your fan can cool or dehumidify a room.

A top of the line fan will have a CMF of 100+. Average fans will have a CFM of between 75-100 CFM. And a poor fan will have anything less than 75 CFM.

However, in a smaller bathroom, you might be able to get away with a fan that can only manage 50 CFM.

Light

Traditionally, bathroom exhaust fans have been installed in the far corner of the room on the wall or the ceiling.

Modern practice has the fan installed in the very middle of the ceiling.

If you want to put your hand in the middle of the ceiling – then you might want it to have a light inside it or to slot over your existing lighting.

Look out for LED lighting, as that lasts much longer than other types of bulbs.

If this is something that you want then you should expect to pay a little bit more for your fan.

Heater

Another feature of modern exhaust fans in bathrooms is heaters and/or humidity control.

If you are looking for a fan with a heater, make sure that it has between 1000-2000 watts, more if you have a very big bathroom.

If you have a smaller bathroom you might not need this feature.

If your fan does have this feature, then try to get one with a remote. This will make adjusting the settings a lot easier.

If this is something that you want then you should expect to pay a little bit more for your fan.

Price

Finally, the thing that will probably have the biggest impact on the type of exhaust fan you purchase for your bathroom is its price.

The more features you want, the more you will typically have to pay for your fan – however, there are some bargains out there that perform much better than you would expect them to for their price.

If you want some of the higher-end features, but don’t want to pay that higher price point – then you should try being a slightly older version of your ideal model.

You will get the majority of the features for a lower price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before we leave you, we want to answer some of the burning questions you have about exhaust fans for bathrooms.

We know that a lot of people are curious about the process of installing exhaust fans, how they work, and how effective they are.

We are going to answer the three most frequently asked questions we get asked on the subject.

Is There A Good Alternative To Exhaust Fans In The Bathroom?

No, if you are trying to keep the moisture levels down in your bathroom then you can’t do much better than an exhaust fan.

Exhaust fans are typically plugged into an outside vent and suck the moisture out of the bathroom and push it outside the house.

By doing this they can prevent damp damaging your walls and black mold building up around the room.

Just opening a window will not cut it.

Do Bathroom Exhaust Fans Remove Smells?

Bathroom exhaust fans are designed to remove moisture from the room.

However, in some cases they can help with smells, depending on the cause of the smell.

They also provide ventilation for the bathroom and move around the air – preventing smells from pooling or lingering in one space.

Should I Get An Electrician To Install Or Replace My Exhaustion Fan?

Yes, if you are installing a fan for the first time then you should bring in an electrician to do it.

The mix of humidity and the electric fan can be disastrous if it goes wrong.

If you do not have to touch the electrics to change your fan then you could do that yourself.

However, we recommend playing it safe and getting an electrician to do it for you.

How and what kind to choose a fan for the bathroom (photo, video review)

It can be problematic to provide a comfortable microclimate in the bathroom and shower room. High levels of humidity adversely affect cabinets, mirrors and cabinets, contributing to the growth of mold.

If natural ventilation cannot cope, then you can install an exhaust fan in the bathroom – the unit forcibly removes exhausted humid air from the room.

We’ll show you how to choose the right model and walk you through the installation process. The installation technology is quite simple, the main thing is to take into account some of the connection nuances and follow the instructions below.

Classification

When buying, it is important to know the fan type. There are axial, channel, roof, tunnel and radiator models. The specific choice depends on the area of ​​​​use of the device.

Axial models

This electric fan consists of a wheel with blades enclosed in a cylindrical housing. The impeller is mounted on the motor axle. When the wheel rotates, the blades capture air and move it along the axis. Air masses practically do not move in the radial direction. The efficiency of axial modifications is quite high, but the pressure characteristics are small. Install such a device directly into the ventilation shaft. The disadvantage of these devices is a high (30-50 dB) noise level.

Radial

The radial fan is equipped with a paddle wheel enclosed in a spiral casing. When the wheel rotates, the air mass enters the space between the blades, goes to the periphery of the wheel, is compressed and thrown by centrifugal force into the spiral casing, and then into the discharge hole.

The advantage of radial devices is high energy efficiency. Compared with other types of fans, the electricity saving is 20%. In addition, they can easily cope with high airflow loads.

Centrifugal

Their distinguishing feature is their good performance combined with the simplicity of the device. If the footage of the room exceeds 15 “squares”, duct-type fans are used. They are mounted under the ceiling and covered with plasterboard structures. Another advantage of centrifugal devices is low noise operation.

It’s interesting: How to choose a steam cleaner – rating of the best 20210009

Like any technical device, an exhaust fan in the bathroom must be selected primarily on the basis of technical parameters. It should be said right away that the cases are usually made of plastic, and the case itself is waterproof (the minimum protection class is IP 24). The shape and type of the grille are arbitrary, the color of the case is most often white, but there are also colored ones.

Extractor hood for bathroom and toilet can be of different shape

In addition to external signs, we choose the diameter of the outlet pipe of the exhaust fan. It is selected depending on the cross section of the duct (it is better not to narrow it, as the air exchange will drop).

Air exchange

For example, a bathroom has dimensions of 2.2 * 2.5 * 2.7 m. We multiply all the numbers to find out the volume, we get 14.85 m3. We round up, we get that the volume of the bathroom is 15 cubic meters. We will consider an eight-fold exchange: 15 m2 * 8 = 120 cubic meters / hour. That is, when selecting the performance of the fan, its performance should not be less than 120 cubic meters per hour.

Example of brief specifications for a bathroom exhaust fan

Noise level

The second point that you need to pay attention to when choosing an exhaust fan in the bathroom is the level of noise produced. If the fan will only work during the day, the noise produced should be in the region of 30-35 dB. It’s not very loud, it doesn’t interfere with other noises. If the fan in the hood will work at night, the noise level should be less than 30 dB, and preferably 20-25 dB.

The quietest bathroom fan is to be found among the radial models. Axial ones, due to the transmission of vibration from the motor, make louder sounds, but there are models in which these vibrations are minimized by the use of special vibration damping pads. Another way is to use rolling bearings. Such axial fans for the bathroom give out just 22-23 dB, which is very small.

90 058 overhead

Name	Mounting type	Operating mechanism	Air exchange (capacity)	Power consumption	Noise level	Additional functions 900 59	Rotation speed	Price
Vents 100 MAT	invoice	axial	98 cub. m/h	18 W	34 dB	timer, switch-off delay	2300 rpm	30-35$
Electrolux EAF-100TH	overhead	axial	100cc m/h	15 W	33 dB	humidity sensor	without adjustment	30-35$
VENTS iFan	axial	106 cu. m/h	4.56 W	31 dB	remote control, humidity sensor	step adjustment	75- 85 $
Soler & Palau SILENT-100 CZ	overhead	axial	m/h	8 W	27 dB	mechanical control	without adjustment	25-39$
Blauberg Sileo 125 T 900 59	overhead	axle	187 cc m/h	17 W	32 dB	timer, check valve	without adjustment	45-50 $
Systemair CBF 100	overlay	radial	110 cc m/h	45 W	45 dB	mechanical control	without adjustment	65-75 $
Systemair BF 100 9005 9	overhead	axial	85 cu. m/h	20 W	41 dB	mechanical control	2400 rpm	32-35 $
Systemair IF 10 0	channel	axle	87. 1 cu. m/h	14 W	44 dB	2432 rpm	28-35 $
MARLEY MP-100S (SV-100) 9005 9	overlay	10 to 83 m³/h	from 1.1 W to 4.1 W	from 10 dB to 38 dB	electronic control	smooth adjustment	209-225 $
VENTS Quiet 100… (V ents Quiet 100)	invoice	silent	97 cc m/h	7.5 W	25 dB	check valve, rolling bearing	2300 rpm	28-35 $
Vents 125 Quiet B (125 Quiet B)	invoice	silent	185 cc m/h	17 W	32 dB	check valve, rolling bearing	2400 rpm	42-50$
Domovent VKO 125…	channel	axial	185 cc M/hour	16 W	37 dB	Protection of overheating and moisture	without adjustment	7-10 $

Also pay attention to the moment as the balloon material. The fan itself may make a little noise, but a metal duct can make noise when air moves through it. Therefore, when installing a ventilation system, it is desirable to use plastic. If you already have a metal box, you can reduce the noise level by gluing it with soundproof materials. The second way out is to sew it into a box, and fill the gaps with porous soundproofing material. It is best suited for this regular soundproofing made of mineral fibers. Mounting foam, of course, is convenient to use, but its soundproofing characteristics are very low. Styrofoam with polystyrene foam is not very good in this regard.

Power consumption

Another parameter is power consumption. The smaller this parameter, the less you have to pay for electricity. From this point of view, axial fans for extractor hoods in the bathroom are more economical. For a set of high efficiency at low electricity costs, they give out significant air exchange. Radial ones are less profitable in this regard: with equal performance, they spend 3-4 times more electricity, but the air is transmitted over a greater distance.

Powerful duct fan

It is also worth remembering that the fan performance (the amount of air moved per unit of time) depends on the power consumption. This parameter is also affected by the shape of the impeller and other design features (for example, the presence of rolling bearings), but the larger the volume of air to be pumped, the more powerful the exhaust fan is required in the bathroom.

BATHROOM EXHAUST FAN SELECTION

To choose the right bathroom fan, you need to know and take into account their main characteristics, which include:

1. Performance

This parameter shows the amount of air (measured in cubic meters) passed by the fan per hour. To correctly calculate the required performance of a bathroom fan, it is enough to multiply the free volume of the room (in cubic meters) by 10. Most often, the standard performance for such fans is 95-100 m3/h

2. Noise level The noise level emitted by the fan during its operation is a very important characteristic. I strongly recommend that you pay special attention to this parameter when choosing. Manufacturers, most often, produce universal devices, the main technical characteristics of which are suitable for most use cases in a standard apartment. But at the same time, the noise level created by the fans can vary greatly, and this is the main indicator on which your comfort depends during operation. The disgusting noise of a working exhaust fan often irritates the ear and leaves unpleasant sensations from visiting the bathroom, you want to leave it as soon as possible. It is better to choose a fan with a noise level of 26 dB (decibel) or less. Remember, every 3 dB difference in noise figures is roughly equal to a TWICE increase in noise intensity!

3. Safety

An exhaust fan, like any electrical equipment, has a certain degree of protection. We already wrote more about the degree of protection in the article “Parameters, as well as the main characteristics of electrical equipment. ” For bathrooms, the fan protection index must be at least ip44. 4. Power consumption The electrical power consumption of the fan, measured in Watts. Depending on this characteristic: the choice of materials (type of cable, section, etc.), the method of connection and some other parameters of the electrical wiring. Most often, household exhaust fans for bathrooms are unpretentious and have a relatively low power consumption, do not require any special, unusual solutions. 5. Dimensions

All axial exhaust fans are standardized, there are several basic sizes. For the right choice, you need to know the size of your bathroom vent, where the fan is supposed to be installed. In addition to these, there are other characteristics, such as the frequency and speed of rotation of the blades, the mass of the fan, the total pressure created, etc., but they are not so important, and when choosing, it is enough to be guided by the list of parameters presented by us above.

It is also good to understand the main types and varieties of exhaust fans for bathrooms.

Additional functions

In the simplest version, the fan in the bathroom hood is switched on by a separate switch. Some models have a chain, by pulling which you can turn it on or off. In this case, the device works for the entire time until the power supply is turned on. There are also other options:

The most common models of bathroom exhaust fans are with a delay switch-off after a blackout. But they can also be turned on through a separate switch, excluding the light bulb from the circuit. Installations with a humidity detector are more economical, since not every visit to the bathroom and turning on the light requires enhanced ventilation. For example, if you went to wash your hands, it is hardly worth turning on forced ventilation.

Another handy option is different blade speeds. In this case, the exhaust fan in the bathroom can change the mode of operation depending on the initial humidity in the room. Switching is manual (mechanical), automatic (MARLEY MP-100S).

Varieties of electric exhaust fans

Ceiling model fan in the bathroom
Exhaust device should not be confused with a conventional electric cool air blower. The impeller of the first one is designed in such a way that it creates a traction force towards the exhaust gas channel from the room, and not vice versa. Otherwise, equipment of this type can be classified according to the following criteria:

• installation principle;
• location of the unit;
• design features of a specific model.

When designing the installation of the device, it is necessary to remember about the timely laying of the electric line to power it. You can control the electric fan with a separate switch key or combine it with the power supply to the shower lighting.

According to the installation method

For private houses and apartments, household exhaust fans are used in the bathroom. They are installed directly on the outlet of the duct from the inside. There are wall-mounted versions (vertical devices) that are fixed with mounting holes and screws through plastic dowels directly to the load-bearing wall.

Horizontal devices are fixed directly above the place of intensive liquid flow. These devices also have fasteners. In the first and second versions, the impeller is covered with a decorative protective ribbed or cellular panel with a mosquito net.

On site

In-duct fan installed in the duct
Can be installed outdoors or in-duct. In the first case, these are overhead electric fans of different capacities, which can most often be distinguished by their appearance. Their faceplate is usually square and ribbed, made of plastic, sometimes with a built-in status indicator.

Channel devices not visually visible. The panel covering the vent is often round in shape. Such systems are more used for ventilation of spacious areas through ceiling ducts.

According to the design

Axial ventilators for extracting toilets are low-power devices with an external rotor, on which an impeller with blades is mounted. Designed for small spaces. During operation, they make a barely perceptible noise.

Centrifugal machines are powerful products due to the fact that they have a working element in the form of a mini turbine. High rotor speeds make it possible to create a high retraction force inside the channel, which makes it possible to install similar devices in large houses, as well as to expel air through long ventilation ducts.

Devices for installation inside the duct shaft are designed in such a way that they can be installed in both rectangular and round pipes. Such devices are not visible from the outside, the channel entrance is covered with a mesh decorative overlay.

Other parameters

When choosing the best bathroom exhaust fan, you should pay attention to the parameters:

• Noise level . Unobtrusive sound will be up to 35 dB. Constant noise will negatively affect the psychological state, contributes to fatigue.
• Mounting method . Devices can be overhead, ceiling, built-in. The latter are in demand due to their stealth, efficiency, ease of installation in the ventilation duct.
• Security . Since the fan is supplied with electricity, the device must be reliably protected from moisture. The optimal security class is from IP44.
• Additional functions . Thanks to them, the user will be able to adjust the power, set the boundary level of humidity in the room for automatic on / off. Fans equipped with a motion sensor automatically turn on when you visit the bathroom and turn off if the room is empty. It is especially important to have a non-return valve, thanks to which dust from the duct does not penetrate into the room. Some models are equipped with a remote control that allows you to set the operating mode of the device from a distance.
• Diameter . The smallest diameter is 80 mm, the largest is 200 mm. Standard air exchangers have a diameter that is a multiple of 20 mm, so it will be very difficult to find a device with d 90 mm. It is better to take a smaller device, then you do not have to break the wall. It is enough to take a corrugation of the right size, mount a device in it, and fill the remaining voids with mounting foam.

The top bathroom exhaust fans include the most popular models that meet international quality standards and do not cause mass dissatisfaction among consumers.

Models of popular manufacturers

Vortice fans can be considered among reliable budget models. They are reliable due to the simple design, high-quality material. The disadvantage is that they make audible noise.

The original Spanish Soler&Palau hoods are distinguished by a large number of models, are affordable, but do not always win with technical aspects.

Maico’s elite, high-end equipment is designed for long, reliable service. Ventilation pumps are silent, productive, have additional functions, but also the corresponding price.

Main selection criteria

Before buying, consider that the best household fans designed for the bathroom are available from all manufacturers. In order not to make a mistake with the choice of model, focus on a few points.

Capacity

The performance index is a multiple of air exchange. When calculating, the number of family members is taken into account. If the bathroom is used by 1-3 people, the setting is a multiple of 6, if more than 3 – 8.
Sanitary standards mark the values ​​of hourly productivity:

• minimum – 25 cubic meters / hour;
• for a bathroom connected to a bathroom – 50 cubic meters / hour;
• for wall mounting – up to 100 cubic meters/hour.

Noise level and safety

Standard bathroom fan noise level is 25 to 30 dB. With thin interior partitions, it is advisable to organize the sound insulation of the ventilation duct.

Moisture protection of models is IP-34, 37, 44 and 45, which is equivalent to class 4. Dust protection – from zero to 3-4 class. Characteristics exclude short circuits and wiring damage.

Tip! Absolutely safe equipment is designed for voltage of 12 V.

Spigot diameter and installation method

Depends on the parameters of the air outlet. The range of modern brands includes models with nozzles of 100, 125 and 150 mm in diameter.

The equipment can be installed internally or externally. In the first case, channel devices are built into a plastic channel system. The hood draws air from the bathroom and toilet at the same time.

Outdoor systems designed for ceiling or wall mounting. The ventilation duct goes into a shaft or pipeline.

Bathroom hood – 80 photos of the best models

The bathroom is one of the wettest rooms in the apartment, a favorable environment for the appearance of dampness. An exhaust fan will help with this task.

Consider the basic rules for choosing a bathroom and toilet hood, installation rules and main characteristics.

Table of contents of the article

Exhaust fan principle

The bathroom hood is an ordinary forced ventilation system. It includes two elements: a fan and an air outlet.

But even such a simple design is capable of doing its job well. The principle of operation of the hood is supply and exhaust.

Particular attention should be paid to the fan, because it bears the main load.

Types of fans

Bathroom hoods are electric and conventional. Electric bathroom hoods require minimal human intervention to function properly.

Conventional hoods are a type of electric fan in a tubular casing. Started with a switch. Very often it is combined with a light switch.

However, this is not the best option as the hood will only work when the light in the bathroom is switched on. That is why it is best to use an independent switch for the fan.

Automatic bathroom hood with timer features an automated process and does not require human intervention.

They can be operated by a switch-off or humidity sensor. As soon as the air humidity reaches certain values, the fan turns on and off when the humidity data drops to normal values.

An excellent option is a bathroom hood with a non-return valve that allows you to adjust the return and direction of air.

Another useful option is a special plug that prevents air from circulating in the opposite direction. This is most important for residents of high-rise buildings, whose apartments very often receive unwanted odors from their neighbors.

Choice of hood

The first thing you need to decide is the power of the hood you need. The amount of recycled air directly depends on the diameter of the hood. Fans can have a pipe diameter of 8 to 15 cm. The newer the house, the larger the pipe diameter should be chosen.

Another important factor when choosing a hood is the protection of the exhaust fan from moisture.

It is important to remember that it is better to buy a hood model that is specifically designed for the bathroom, as this will help you avoid future wiring problems.

Do not neglect the noise level when buying a hood. The quieter the hood for the bathroom, the better it is. All that should be heard is the movement of air in the case.

Try to choose reliable models that can last at least a few years. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers can guarantee the quality of their products. As a rule, the longer the warranty period, the better the product.

Exhaust fan installation options

There are only two options for installing an exhaust fan in a bathroom. Manufacturers of exhaust fans provide special mounts that are located under the fan cover.

But in order to install self-tapping screws, it is necessary to make holes in the tile, which are located almost along its very edge. And such manipulations very often lead to unwanted cracks and chips.

The second option for installing an exhaust fan in the bathroom belongs to ordinary consumers. It is the easiest way to attach the hood to the wall using silicone.

It is also easy to dismantle such a construction: it is enough to cut off the silicone with a blade or a construction knife.

While installing an extractor fan is a simple and easy process, the same cannot be said for electrical work.