Bathroom Fan Cleaning Service? All Answers

A bathroom fan is essential as it removes excess moisture from bathrooms. Most bathroom fans are wired to turn on automatically when you enter the bathroom and flip the light switch. Over time, bathroom fans wear out and eventually need to be replaced.

So how often should bathroom fans be replaced?

You should replace bathroom fans every ten years. How long a bathroom extractor fan lasts depends on usage, the quality of the extractor fan, and maintenance. You should clean the exhaust fans at least once a year.

Most people don’t replace a bathroom fan until it fails, and there’s nothing wrong with that logic. However, most bathroom fans fail long before they actually stop working.

Keeping your new bathroom exhaust fan clean should be important for home maintenance. As dirt and debris builds up in the fan, the blades become heavy and harder to turn, causing undue stress on the engine. The deposits also build up on the motor itself, causing it to overheat – eventually leading to failure.

When Should You Replace Your Bathroom Fan?

First, you need to recognize the telltale signs that your bathroom fan needs replacing. Of course, it’s a good idea to install a new unit before the existing fan fails.

So when should you replace a bathroom fan? Bathroom fans should be replaced if the fan is over ten years old, not spinning, spinning slowly, or noisy due to a broken blade or excessive vibration.

Bathroom fans often start out slowly or get very loud before stopping completely. These are signs that your fan needs cleaning. Unfortunately, you cannot repair bathroom fans, you can only replace them. So maintenance is essential.

Here’s how to tell if your bathroom fan needs replacing or not:

The fan is noisy when it is on

Turn your bathroom exhaust fan on and off while you listen carefully. If the fan is noisy or making strange noises, the fan is near the end of its useful life.

If you hear a loud squeak when the fan starts up, the fan motor is probably about to seize up.

If you hear a scratching noise, the fan blade is probably broken or is probably hitting the vent cover or case walls due to excessive vibration.

If you hear a humming noise, the motor is probably having trouble turning the blade and has seized or is about to seize.

The fan blade does not rotate

If the fan doesn’t start up as quickly as it used to, it’s about to fail. The reason for this is that the engine is no longer working as efficiently as it used to, and sooner or later it will fail.

If you turn on the fan but it doesn’t respond, there may be problems with its electrical wiring or circuitry, especially if the bathroom lights turn on with no problem.

The fan is more than 10 years old

This is more of a proactive than reactive approach. Fan components quickly fail with age. Fans should be replaced every ten years even if they are still functional like smoke detectors.

Older fans use more electricity to run and can become a fire hazard. The motors in the fans can overheat relatively quickly. New bathroom fan motors have thermal overloads that shut off the fan if it overheats. An old bathroom fan may not have this feature.

Cost to replace a bathroom fan?

If you notice that your bathroom exhaust fan is no longer working efficiently or is showing signs of imminent failure, you should have it replaced as soon as possible. But how much does an ordinary bathroom exhaust fan cost? Let’s look at the breakdown of the cost of replacing your bathroom fan.

The average cost to replace a bathroom fan is $375. The fan unit ranges in price from $15 to $300 depending on cubic feet per minute (CFM), sone, and lighting options. The CFM rating measures how much airflow is moved in square feet. The Sone rating measures the noise level of the fan.

The CFM rating for bathroom fans ranges from 50 to 150 square feet. So the size of your bathroom will determine the size of fan you need.

For a 75 square foot bathroom, choose an exhaust fan with a CFM 80 rating. However, larger bathrooms may need one larger fan or two smaller fans depending on the bathroom layout.

The Sone rating for bathroom fans ranges from 4.0 to 0. The lower the number, the quieter the fan is. A rating of 1.0 corresponds to a modern refrigerator.

Improvement Costs: Although improvement costs are not necessities, they can increase your spending depending on the improvements you want to introduce. For example, a speed control switch can cost a hundred dollars, including labor.

Labor Costs: For those who would rather pay someone to do the work for them, you have additional labor costs to replace your bathroom fan. Depending on where you live and your electrician, you can spend about $300 in labor costs for three hours of work.

Total Cost: If you want to upgrade your bathroom fans, you can spend $300-$500 on each installation. A standard bathroom fan costs $100 to $120 if you choose a standard fan. You can save even more if you do the reinstallation yourself.

Can you replace a bathroom fan yourself?

If paying a licensed electrician to replace your bathroom fan is a bit beyond your budget, you might want to consider replacing the bathroom fan yourself given the high labor costs. But you might be asking yourself one of two questions. Is it easy to change a bathroom fan? Is it possible to do it yourself?

Yes, you can replace a bathroom fan yourself. It’s relatively easy to install a bathroom fan if you’re handy. If you can install a light fixture or a ceiling fan, you can install a bathroom fan. However, if you are doing custom work, it is best to hire a licensed electrician.

For example, if your bathroom exhaust fan isn’t the standard size you find at the nearest store, you’ll need to make an entirely new opening in the ceiling or wall. If you need to replace the entire unit, you may need to go to your attic to install a new exhaust fan vent pipe.

This brings us to a common problem with home inspections; Bathroom fans that are not vented to the outside.

Do bathroom fans need to be vented to the outside?

The purpose of a bathroom exhaust fan is to draw in air from the bathroom and expel it outside. Bathroom fans do this to remove the humid air from the bathroom created by showering and bathing. However, especially in older homes, we often see exhaust fans installed with no vent pipe to the outside. So, do bathroom fans need to be vented outside?

Most bathroom fans must be vented to the outside. Venting a bathroom fan into the attic or ceiling space without a vent pipe to the outside can result in mold growing on the ceiling or in the attic. If installing an exhaust duct is not an option, installing a ductless exhaust fan is an option.

Bathroom fans work by sucking in air and expelling it outside. The fan does not clean the air; it merely moves the air from one place to another. The fans also suck in the air with odors and air pollutants like dust, so the vent line is essential.

Vent ducts for bathroom vents must vent to the outside through a wall or soffit. The vent line should exit the building with a vent cover installed outside.

Without proper vent ducting, you’re simply moving humid air out of the bathroom and into the attic. When this happens, humid air can condense and cause a mold problem in the attic and wood rot on the wood frame.

A ductless fan might be an option where installing a vent duct is not an option (e.g. in the first floor bathroom with no loft access due to the second floor living space). However, your product options are limited.

The Broan-Nutone 682 Duct-Free Ventilation Fan is a duct-free ventilation fan that includes a long-life activated carbon filter. Air is sucked into the fan, over the filter, and then out the other side of the fan. The filter must be changed at least once a year with normal use.

How long do bathroom exhaust fans last?

A bathroom exhaust fan can last ten years, but it could last a lot longer depending on how well it’s maintained. However, a fan’s lifespan can change rapidly due to frequent use, regular cleaning, and fan size.

Bathroom fans that are used frequently wear out faster than those that are not used all the time. Remember that bathroom fans depend on a motor that will eventually fail due to constant wear and tear. Many people leave bathroom fans on all day or all night.

Fire hazard from fans in the bathroom

Leaving a fan on for more than 20 minutes can cause the fan motor to overheat and fail. The lint that has accumulated in a dirty fan is combustible. A dirty fan motor that overheats could short out or start a house fire.

Three home fires were associated with bathroom exhaust fans, causing more than $100,000 in smoke and property damage, according to a 2014 report by the Countryside Fire Protection District. 1

In Ohio, Columbus fire crews reported nine building fires in 2018 caused by bathroom ventilation fans. In April 2019, the same county reported eight building fires caused by bathroom ventilation fans, totaling over $330,000 in smoke and property damage. 2

How often should a bathroom exhaust fan be cleaned?

Now I know you’re probably thinking, “Like you need anything else to clean.” Well, it’s not that bad and should only take a few minutes to clean. Yes, bathroom fans need to be cleaned as that is one way to keep them well maintained and running efficiently.

You may be wondering how often does a bathroom fan need to be cleaned? Bathroom fans need to be cleaned once a year. In baths that are not used often, you can probably do once every two years.

Here are some easy steps to clean your bathroom fan.

Turn off the power to your fan

Before you start cleaning your bathroom vent, you need to turn off the bathroom fan at the wall switch. You may need to turn off the power to the bathroom at the circuit breaker. You may need a flashlight, so have one nearby.

You can use a non-contact voltage probe like the Klein non-contact voltage tester to verify that the fan is off.

Remove the fan cover

Using a stepladder, you need to remove the fan cover. Some fan covers are attached with screws. However, most have large pin clips that slide into place.

Simply slide the cover down to access the clips and remove the pin clips. Push in the clips on both sides to release the hooks.

Clean the fan cover with soapy water

If necessary, wash the removed cover in a deep sink with mild soapy water. Scrub vigorously with a rag to remove dirt. Set the vent cover aside to air dry.

Clean the ventilation blades with a damp cloth

Remove the fan blade from the motor. Wash the fan blade in a deep sink with mild soapy water. As before, use a rag to remove tough dirt. Allow to air dry. If you cannot remove the blade, use a vacuum wand attachment to remove as much debris as possible. Use a damp cloth to remove stubborn dirt from the blade.

Vacuum dust from fan assembly

Use a wand attachment on your vacuum and vacuum inside and outside of the vents. Carefully vacuum dust and dirt from the motor assembly. If you don’t have a wand attachment, a brush attachment should work just fine.

Reattach the fan blade to the motor

If you didn’t remove the blade, you can skip this step. Now that the case is clean it’s time to reassemble the fan.

Dry the fan blade and reinstall it if you removed it by pressing the fan blade onto the motor arm to secure it. Make sure the blade is tight so it doesn’t hit the fan cover when in use.

Reattach the ventilation cover

Dry the fan cover and reattach it. The clips slide back into place. Slide the cover tight against the ceiling again. Secure the screws if necessary.

Finally, test the exhaust fan

After assembly, turn on the power at the circuit breaker or wall switch and test the fan. Run the fan for a few minutes to make sure nothing is loose.

Cleaning bathroom fans also helps them last longer. The more clogged a bathroom exhaust fan is, the harder its motor has to work. This can very well shorten the lifespan.

Even so, I suggest that you give your bathroom exhaust fans a thorough cleaning at least once a year so you can remove any dirt, hair, or particles that have built up. You also need to consider how often you use the bathroom, as fans in rarely used bathrooms may not need regular cleaning.

If we talk about the bathroom that you use often, it is best to clean it once a year or maybe even twice, depending on how quickly the dirt accumulates.

frequently asked Questions

Can you replace just the fan of a bathroom exhaust fan?

It is possible to swap out just the fan blade or fan motor on a bathroom exhaust fan if you have one of the same fan models. However, depending on the model and age of your bathroom extractor fan, it may be less expensive to replace the entire unit.

If you are just replacing the fan motor, it is important to ensure that the new fan motor is compatible with your bathroom exhaust fan model. Otherwise you can damage your bathroom exhaust fan and have to replace the entire unit anyway.

Are bathroom fans interchangeable?

Bathroom fans are generally interchangeable, so you can simply remove the old fan and install the new fan. If you receive a fan with a higher CFM rating, the fan may not be replaceable. It is best to remove the fan cover and measure the opening to ensure the new replacement fan you buy is the same size.

Whatever type of fan you choose, the size of the fan should match your existing opening or you may need to modify the opening to make the fan fit.

How to fix a noisy bathroom fan?

Fan noise is usually caused by a dirty fan or a defective motor. There are a few things you can do to fix a noisy bathroom fan. These include:

Check if the fan blades are clean. If they are dirty, they must be cleaned. You can do this by using a brush or vacuum attachment to remove the dirt and debris from the blades.

Another thing you can do is check the fan motor. If it’s loose, you need to tighten it.

If your bathroom fan is still noisy after these measures, you may need to replace it. Bathroom fans typically last about 10 years. So if your bathroom fan is older, it might still be time to replace it.

What causes a bathroom exhaust fan to stop working?

Bathroom fans generally stop working because the fan motor fails. There are a few things that can cause a bathroom exhaust fan to stop working.

One thing that can happen is the fan motor can burn out. This usually happens after years of use.

Another thing that can happen is that the fan blades can get damaged or dirty. This can cause the fan to work less efficiently and eventually stop working altogether. Debris buildup on the fan blades becomes heavy and can stress the motor, which can lead to failure.

Failure of the bathroom exhaust fan to vent properly can also cause the unit to stop working. Improved ventilation can stress the motor and lead to failure over time.

You can also check the circuit breaker or light switch to make sure the fan is getting power. The fan will not work without power. This is rare but can happen if the switch fails or the breaker trips.

Check the bathroom GFCI to see if it has tripped. Depending on how the fan is wired, sometimes once the GFCI has triggered the fan will not work until it is reset.

How do I know which bathroom fan I have?

You can use the fan model number to determine what type of fan you have. Most bathroom fans have a product label on the inside of the fan housing. The sticker should include a serial number and model number, as well as the CFM rating.

If the sticker is not on the inside of the fan case, it may be on the back of the fan which is not visible without removing the fan.

How do I know what size replacement bathroom fan I need?

You should purchase a replacement bathroom fan that has the same CFM rating. If you don’t know the CFM rating, the rule of thumb is 1 CFM per 1 square foot of floor space. If your bathroom is 50 square feet, buy a fan rated at 50 CFM. Fans typically range from 50 CFM to 110 CFM, with 50 CFM being the lowest rating.

Why is the bathroom fan so loud?

Some bathroom fans are noisy due to the type of motor they have. The volume of the bathroom fan is measured in sones. A sone is a unit of volume and the lower the sone, the quieter the fan. Typical Sone ratings for bathroom fans range from 1.0 to 4.0, with 4.0 being the loudest. Cheaper fans generally have a 4.0 sone rating, while more expensive fans may have a 1.5 or 1.0 sone rating.

Another reason your bathroom fan can be noisy is that it needs cleaning or is about to fail. If the volume is accompanied by a rattling or squeaking noise, the fan motor is under stress and is struggling to spin.

Is a higher CFM better for bathroom fans?

There’s no real added benefit if you need a bathroom fan with a higher CFM rating than what you need. A higher CFM moves more air, but uses more power. You’re better off keeping the CFM rating and opting for a bathroom fan with a lower sone rating that’s quieter to run.

Can you use WD40 on a bathroom fan?

WD-40 is an excellent exhaust fan lubricant because it also helps break down dirt, dust, or grease buildup. Other lubricants such as silicone spray can be used to lubricate an exhaust fan if needed. Rotate the fan blades by hand a few times and wipe excess lubricant from the motor.

If you use WD40, it’s best to wipe off the excess. WD40 is a lubricant and can actually make the problem worse by attracting more dirt and debris. Using a penetrating oil like Liquid Wrench along with a can of compressed air can clean without excess lube.

Conclusion

As previously mentioned, cleaning your bathroom fan can significantly affect its lifespan as dirt and debris buildup can slow the fan down and force it to work harder, which is detrimental to the health of its motor. So if you take good care of your bathroom fan by cleaning it thoroughly every year or every six months, you can extend its lifespan.

Of course, the fan size also plays a role here, because larger bathrooms need larger exhaust air fans. If you use a small fan in a large bathroom, the fan will have to run longer and will fail more quickly. That’s why you should choose an exhaust fan that’s right for the size of your bathroom if you want it to work efficiently.

In this regard, while it is possible for you to replace your bathroom fan yourself without the help of a professional, you will find that it is not as easy as it looks.

Even a licensed electrician can take 3 hours to get the job done. You may need more time to do this and you may miss an important step and install the fan incorrectly. Having your bathroom fan installed by an electrician gives you peace of mind that you did the job right.

If the exhaust fan contains mesh filters, remove them and pour boiling water through them.

1 For the mesh:

If the exhaust fan contains mesh filters, remove them and pour boiling water through them. Soak them in a mixture of hot water and ammonia (1/2 cup ammonia to 1 gallon of water) for one hour. Remove the mesh from the soaking solution and scrub the solution around the mesh. Not only the filter accumulates grease, but also the fan blades. Use sodium phosphate cleaner to clean the blades! (wear a mask when using this)

2 For fan blades:

Prepare a mixture of soap and water, or you can also add a mixture of 1/4 ammonia, 2 tablespoons baking soda, and 1 cup warm water. Put on the rubber gloves and use the above mixture and a cotton cloth to scrub the exhaust fan blades and then the rest of the case.

3 Lose Fat:

Harsh chemicals can be applied to break down the fat. The residue can then be rinsed off with hot water. Chemicals are generally applied either with a garden sprayer, post-injection from a pressure washer, or with

a chemical frother.

4 scratch up:

Use scrapers if grease has built up too much before applying chemicals. Remove dirt and grease with the small steam cleaner. Take a mild damp cloth or towel and wipe the unit inside out to ensure all parts are dirt free.

5 Cut through the dirt:

From behind, scrub the fan housing and fan blades. You’ll need to continue drying the areas you’ve finished with paper towels. You can also clean it with vinegar or window cleaner or any dish soap with a toothbrush. It cuts through the dirt and grease that builds up in the fan.

Welcome to Direct Energy’s Take Charge of Your Home series! Hiring a professional to do your home maintenance can be convenient and reassuring, but many of these jobs you can do yourself without any experience or special tools. And in the process, you’ll save money, learn how your home works, and gain a sense of accomplishment from a home improvement job well done! Kitchen and bathroom extractor fans are among the most underrated systems in today’s homes. They’re easy to forget when it comes to home maintenance, and they can sometimes go haywire without homeowners even realizing it. But when used properly and well-maintained, they can make any home smell safer, more energy-efficient, and fresher.

What do exhaust fans do?

Your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans have the same primary function: to move air out of those rooms and out. But there are big differences in the benefits these two types of exhaust fans offer.

In bathrooms, the most important job of the exhaust fan is to remove the steam created by hot showers. Most bathrooms are small, and few have large, easy-to-open windows to aid in ventilation, so the exhaust fan is often the only way for vapor to escape.

If the steam has nowhere to escape, it will turn into condensation on every surface in the bathroom. In the short term, this creates mildew, mold, and all sorts of unpleasant odors. Over the long term, it can peel wallpaper, rot drywall, and even warp wood paneling and furniture.

Bathroom exhaust fans also do double duty by eliminating unpleasant bathroom odors.

In the kitchen, exhaust fans are located either in a range hood above the range or as part of a microwave top assembly. Like the bathroom fan, it draws steam from pots of boiling water to keep the humid air from harming your kitchen. But it also eliminates strong cooking smells, cleans smoke from failed baking experiments and keeps hobs clean by sucking up grease particles. It’s even good for blowing out warm air when you’re using the stove in the summer and giving your air conditioner a little break.

When to use your exhaust fans

In the bathroom, you can always run the exhaust fan if you feel the air could use a refresh. But you should always leave it running during hot showers and for about 20 minutes after, or until the steamy air is completely gone. It’s often a good idea to keep the kitchen exhaust fan running when you’re cooking on the stovetop, but personal preferences vary. Kitchen fans also remove cooking odors, and some home cooks might consider it a waste to let all those delicious flavors escape. The key times for exhaust fan operation are when cooking with oil or fat, boiling water, or removing smoke. From an energy efficiency perspective, it’s also important to remember to turn off the fans when they’re no longer needed. When your fans are silent, it can easily go unnoticed. Some sophisticated models have built-in timers or sensors that turn them on and off automatically, but these features aren’t the norm.

How to clean a bathroom exhaust fan

You should clean your bathroom exhaust fan at least once a year. Before starting, switch off the power supply to the fan at the control box. Stand on a sturdy step stool to get a good look at the grille covering your fan. It could be held in place by screws, but most modern fan grills are held in place with easy-to-remove tension clips that require no tools. After removing the rust, wash with warm water and dish soap. Use a vacuum wand attachment or a can of compressed air to remove as much dust as possible from the fan assembly. Then use a duster to remove the remaining dust. Then just dry it and put the grate back in place. Don’t forget to turn the circuit breaker back on!

How to clean a kitchen exhaust fan

Kitchen hood extractor fans should also be cleaned at least once a year and can be a little more involved so we recommend checking the model specific documentation where possible. If you don’t have the original manual that came with your fan, look for a label with a model number so you can look up that information online. There are two main reasons to look for model-specific cleaning instructions, and they have one thing in common: greasing. Kitchen exhaust fans have grease filters that keep your vent pipe from sticking and while most kitchen exhaust fan mesh filters can be cleaned and reused, some are designed to be thrown away and replaced. You should also check your fan’s documentation for an approved list of cleaning materials for removing grease from fan blades and other components. No matter how hard your filter works, some grease will always get through, and cleaning your greasy kitchen exhaust fan blades thoroughly can take a little time and elbow grease. If your fan uses reusable filters, often the most effective way to remove built-up grease is to soak them in boiling water for several minutes, then scrub with hot, soapy water and a nylon-bristle brush. And like your bathroom fan, always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before cleaning.

How to maintain your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans

1. Proper ventilation

Even if they’re clean and operational, your exhaust fans aren’t doing you any favors if they’re not efficiently venting to the outside. Unscrupulous home installers have been known to take shortcuts by venting extractor fans in attics or even gaps between walls. It just means moist air is being directed to an inconspicuous spot where mold can grow for years before becoming a big problem. If you’re unsure if your fans are venting outside properly, it’s worth checking them out.

Depending on your home layout, you may be able to visually inspect all of your exhaust ducts in your attic. You need to be able to spot the places where they are popping out of your bathroom and kitchen ceilings and (hopefully) extending through your roof. This can be more difficult in multi-story homes, and renting one can help

HVAC professional

for an inspection if you have concerns about your exhaust systems.

2. Breather pipe damper

Where the exhaust fan vent pipes exit from the roof or walls of your home, they should be covered with some type of backdraft valve. Dampers are designed to pop open and expel air while the fans are blowing, and cover the vent tube the rest of the time. However, dampers can rust or become damaged, and they can become blocked by windblown debris. You should regularly inspect them from the outside, especially if you spot drafts coming down from one of your exhaust fans.

A bad or clogged shock can usually be seen from the ground. If you suspect your muffler is rusted, turn on your exhaust fan and observe it from the outside. If it doesn’t wobble, it probably needs oiling or replacing.

When to Replace Your Exhaust Fans

Regular cleaning will help prolong the life of your exhaust fans, but they won’t last forever. The average lifespan of a bathroom exhaust fan is around ten years, and range hoods tend to last a little longer at around 15 years.

If you have an HVAC professional perform the annual maintenance of your home’s furnace and air conditioning system, consider making it part of your routine to have your exhaust fans checked at the same time. This is the most reliable way to schedule a preventive replacement and ensure uninterrupted performance.

Remember: use your exhaust fans and clean them at least once a year.

Real Solutions for Permanently Eliminating Mold and Mildew in the Bathroom Bathroom extractor fans perform an important, if often neglected, function. Their first job is to suck out the warm, moist air that comes from showering/bathing. Second, they are designed to eliminate bathroom odors. Both depend on a simple process of drawing air from the bathroom and expelling it outside. Fans play an important role in reducing mold growth in the bathroom.

What do bathroom fans do wrong?

Unavailable. Occasionally I find homes without an exhaust fan. Often the homeowner’s solution is to open a window and hope for a decent breeze. The problem is much more common in pre-1950 homes. Most building codes have required bathroom fans to be installed for decades.

. Occasionally I find homes without an exhaust fan. Often the homeowner’s solution is to open a window and hope for a decent breeze. The problem is much more common in pre-1950 homes. Most building codes have required bathroom fans to be installed for decades. undersupplied. Many bathroom exhaust fans are underpowered to begin with. The rest often lose power and speed over time due to worn engines or clogged assemblies. Even in million dollar homes, the bathroom fans are almost always cheap, hardware store versions.

Many bathroom exhaust fans are underpowered to begin with. The rest often lose power and speed over time due to worn engines or clogged assemblies. Even in million dollar homes, the bathroom fans are almost always cheap, hardware store versions. Stupid installation. Designing a proper bathroom exhaust fan isn’t rocket science. However, there are design flaws that can drastically reduce their effectiveness. The most common problem is the lack of channels. While this will not affect the fan’s ability to extract air from the bathroom, it can certainly lead to severe mold and wood decay in the adjacent frame. Other issues include long and tortuous duct paths, which can severely limit the fan’s ability to move enough air.

Results of bathroom fan failure:

Malfunctioning bathroom fans can lead to a number of comfort issues, but the most worrisome issue is the likelihood of mold growth. This occurs when the bathtub fan does not properly remove the excess moisture created by using the shower. In the absence of suitable escape routes, the moisture quickly condenses on the ceiling and walls. This creates the mottle shown in the photo below. Fortunately, since mold growth is due to condensation, the problem is limited to the warm side of the ceiling or walls. Even in fairly severe cases, the back of the sheetrock remains completely mold free. This happens because the wall or ceiling becomes the first surface of condensation, effectively trapping moisture before it can escape through the wall. Technically, a small amount of moisture will migrate through the sheetrock, but that moisture easily penetrates through the insulation on the other side.

Determining the Proper Size/CFM of a Bathroom Exhaust Fan.

According to the Home Ventilating Institute, a properly sized bathroom fan should achieve at least 8 air changes per hour. This means that the entire air volume in the bathroom is exchanged 8 times within 60 minutes. Of course, this does not apply to bathrooms with saunas, whirlpools or other exotic, moisture-generating devices. The vast majority of bathrooms require a fan capable of producing 60-120 CFM.

Below is an example of a typical sized bathroom and the associated calculations:

Fan Control: Constant Flow vs. Timer vs. Switch

The best fan in the world is of little use if it doesn’t run when it has to. In the past, the answer was simple: either a simple switch or an old-fashioned timer. Neither of these work very well as people tend to turn off the switch after showering or the timers just failed. Both lead to insufficient airflow and mold problems.

Today we have much better options. These fall roughly into the categories of permanent current or digital timer. As the name suggests, a continuous flow bathtub fan runs at a low CFM (typically 30-40) all the time, but ramps up to full speed when the bathroom is in use. Panasonic models do this best and can be set to run for an additional 30-60 minutes after the occupant leaves the bathroom. This allows the fan to dissipate the residual moisture that occurs when you shower.

Digital timers are simply an upgraded version of the dial timer. Being digital rather than mechanical, they tend to last much longer. They work well in situations where the occupants can be confident they are operating the timer properly. With children or tenants, the constant flow models are superior.

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Real Solutions for Permanently Eliminating Mold and Mildew in the Bathroom Bathroom extractor fans perform an important, if often neglected, function. Their first job is to suck out the warm, moist air that comes from showering/bathing. Second, they are designed to eliminate bathroom odors. Both depend on a simple process of drawing air from the bathroom and expelling it outside. Fans play an important role in reducing mold growth in the bathroom.

What do bathroom fans do wrong?

Unavailable. Occasionally I find homes without an exhaust fan. Often the homeowner’s solution is to open a window and hope for a decent breeze. The problem is much more common in pre-1950 homes. Most building codes have required bathroom fans to be installed for decades.

. Occasionally I find homes without an exhaust fan. Often the homeowner’s solution is to open a window and hope for a decent breeze. The problem is much more common in pre-1950 homes. Most building codes have required bathroom fans to be installed for decades. undersupplied. Many bathroom exhaust fans are underpowered to begin with. The rest often lose power and speed over time due to worn engines or clogged assemblies. Even in million dollar homes, the bathroom fans are almost always cheap, hardware store versions.

Many bathroom exhaust fans are underpowered to begin with. The rest often lose power and speed over time due to worn engines or clogged assemblies. Even in million dollar homes, the bathroom fans are almost always cheap, hardware store versions. Stupid installation. Designing a proper bathroom exhaust fan isn’t rocket science. However, there are design flaws that can drastically reduce their effectiveness. The most common problem is the lack of channels. While this will not affect the fan’s ability to extract air from the bathroom, it can certainly lead to severe mold and wood decay in the adjacent frame. Other issues include long and tortuous duct paths, which can severely limit the fan’s ability to move enough air.

Results of bathroom fan failure:

Malfunctioning bathroom fans can lead to a number of comfort issues, but the most worrisome issue is the likelihood of mold growth. This occurs when the bathtub fan does not properly remove the excess moisture created by using the shower. In the absence of suitable escape routes, the moisture quickly condenses on the ceiling and walls. This creates the mottle shown in the photo below. Fortunately, since mold growth is due to condensation, the problem is limited to the warm side of the ceiling or walls. Even in fairly severe cases, the back of the sheetrock remains completely mold free. This happens because the wall or ceiling becomes the first surface of condensation, effectively trapping moisture before it can escape through the wall. Technically, a small amount of moisture will migrate through the sheetrock, but that moisture easily penetrates through the insulation on the other side.

Determining the Proper Size/CFM of a Bathroom Exhaust Fan.

According to the Home Ventilating Institute, a properly sized bathroom fan should achieve at least 8 air changes per hour. This means that the entire air volume in the bathroom is exchanged 8 times within 60 minutes. Of course, this does not apply to bathrooms with saunas, whirlpools or other exotic, moisture-generating devices. The vast majority of bathrooms require a fan capable of producing 60-120 CFM.

Below is an example of a typical sized bathroom and the associated calculations:

Fan Control: Constant Flow vs. Timer vs. Switch

The best fan in the world is of little use if it doesn’t run when it has to. In the past, the answer was simple: either a simple switch or an old-fashioned timer. Neither of these work very well as people tend to turn off the switch after showering or the timers just failed. Both lead to insufficient airflow and mold problems.

Today we have much better options. These fall roughly into the categories of permanent current or digital timer. As the name suggests, a continuous flow bathtub fan runs at a low CFM (typically 30-40) all the time, but ramps up to full speed when the bathroom is in use. Panasonic models do this best and can be set to run for an additional 30-60 minutes after the occupant leaves the bathroom. This allows the fan to dissipate the residual moisture that occurs when you shower.

Digital timers are simply an upgraded version of the dial timer. Being digital rather than mechanical, they tend to last much longer. They work well in situations where the occupants can be confident they are operating the timer properly. With children or tenants, the constant flow models are superior.

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I need to fix a broken bathroom fan I need to fix a broken bathroom fan

It can be exhausting if your bathroom fan is not exhausting. You know your fan eliminates bathroom odors, but its main job is to remove hot, humid air and keep the room dry to prevent mold and mildew. Use your exhaust fan to get rid of odors and expel humid air before and after showering and bathing.

Quick tip: To make the bathroom fan remove odors and hot, humid air more efficiently:

Turn on the fan as you enter so the air is already moving.

When you leave, keep the door open. This allows the fan to replace bad air with fresh air.

When the door is closed you restrict air movement and your fan works harder and longer.

So the bathroom fan does important work. If it doesn’t work, you want to fix it as soon as possible. Let’s start with why it might not work.

Why your bathroom fan might not work

There are several reasons why your exhaust fan may stop working. Here are some of the most common reasons and how to fix them:

Check if something tripped the circuit breaker. If necessary, reset the circuit breaker.

Check the fan switch with a voltage tester. Replace it if you have a bad switch.

If the fan switch is on an RCD outlet (the outlet with the buttons that automatically turns off power to prevent electric shock), test it to make sure it’s reset.

If the exhaust fan motor is not spinning smoothly, you may need to clean the assembly or lubricate the motor with a few drops of light machine oil on each end of the motor shaft.

The motor has burned out and needs to be replaced.

Test your bathroom fan

Let’s say the circuit breaker is reset, the switch works, the GFCI is reset, the motor is clean and oiled and the motor is not blown. You flip the switch and it turns on, but it still doesn’t work. It may be that the poor suction performance is not caused by the motor. You can test the suction power by turning on the fan and then placing a piece of toilet paper on the grill. If the toilet paper isn’t sticking to the grill, you probably need to clean it.

Remove the grill and use an old brush to remove any lint or dirt from the grill fins. In doing so, remove the fan motor and thoroughly clean the fan blades and the motor housing. One thing to keep in mind: most fan blades are plastic, but some of the older blades are metal. Metal blades can twist or bend. For best efficiency, straighten the blades if they are bent. Now that all the parts are clean and in good condition, reassemble the fan.

Try the toilet paper test again. If it still doesn’t work, you may have a clogged exhaust duct. You can clean it with a broomstick with a rag attached to the end. You can also buy drain cleaning sticks that can bend or make 90 degree bends to clean your drains. Wet-dry vacuum cleaners can also clean shorter channels.

So what if I’ve done all this and it still doesn’t work?

You need to replace the motor or buy a new fan. Replacing the motor is relatively easy. It costs about the same as a new fan, but at least you don’t have to rip out the old fan. If you need to buy a new fan, look for what’s called a “Sone number” on the box. This is a unit for measuring noise. The lower the number, the quieter the fan.

Don’t just buy the fan with the lowest “Sone number”. You want to be sure you’re getting one powerful enough to replace the air in your bathroom 8 times in an hour. To do this, check the CFM rating. Bathrooms 50 square feet and smaller typically have a CFM range of 50-79. For larger bathrooms, choose a fan that can move at least 1 CFM per square foot of space. For example, the fan for an 80 square foot bathroom should be rated at least 80 CFM. So when you buy a new fan, remember to buy one that is both quiet and moves the air. You pay more, but if you like a quiet fan, it’s better than having a fan that’s super loud.

If you have any questions about your fan or need help with the repair, don’t hesitate to call EarlyBird at any time. We keep the air moving to keep you comfortable.

Disclaimer

The general knowledge and advice in this blog is intended to give you a little background information about your electrical system and may not be complete or contain minor errors. Early Bird Electric is not responsible for the consequences of attempting to troubleshoot your electrical problem using this information. It’s always a good idea to hire a local, licensed electrician like Early Bird Electric to get the job done safely and professionally.

Ever wondered why you change your oven filter a few times a year but not your bathroom fan filter?

Bathroom fans do not have filters as they only move air in one direction. Their main function as an exhaust fan is to remove condensation from the bathroom and expel it to the outside. Using a filter with a bathroom fan would cause it to operate inefficiently and become a dangerous moisture trap.

This article will discuss the central parts of a bathroom fan and why it doesn’t have a filter. I also look at the best way to clean your bathroom fan.

Reasons why bathroom fans don’t have filters

The reasons bathroom fans don’t have filters are directly related to how they work.

1. Bathroom fans do not circulate air

Bathroom fans are primarily exhaust fans that only move air in one direction.

Extractor fans pull the moisture from the air, which is then expelled from the system and out of the building.

They do not suck in outside air to return it to the room and therefore do not need filters.

2. Filter would be a moisture trap

Rather than allowing condensation to enter the fan and be drawn into the ducts, a filter would prevent much humid air from entering the main parts of the bathroom fan.

Much of the moisture-rich air would settle on the filter and over time lead to mold and bacteria growth in and around the unit and become a health hazard.

3. Filters would reduce the effectiveness of the fan

Without a filter, condensation flows unhindered into the switched-on bathroom fan.

The rotating blades of the fan encourage the humid air to flow into the device.

If a filter covers the fan’s blades, it won’t pull the condensation into the unit as effectively and may be little more than a waste of electricity.

Bathroom fan components and how they work

To better understand why bathroom fans don’t use filters, let’s take a look at their main components and how they work.

Bathroom fans are ceiling or wall mounted extractor fans that help reduce moisture, condensation and mold growth.

Here are the components that make this possible:

Engine. A bathroom fan motor drives the fan and starts to work when the wall switch is turned on.

A bathroom fan motor drives the fan and starts to work when the wall switch is turned on. Fan. When the bathroom fan turns on, the motor spins the fan blades to suck in the humid air.

When the bathroom fan turns on, the motor spins the fan blades to suck in the humid air. sewerage. Condensation drawn into the bathroom fan flows out of the building through the duct. Bathroom fan ducts are usually made of aluminum. It is usually well insulated, as the temperature difference between the exhaust air in the duct and the surrounding building material can cause condensation (which can cause mold and moisture build-up and damage the surrounding materials).

Condensation drawn into the bathroom fan flows out of the building through the duct. Bathroom fan ducts are usually made of aluminum. It is usually well insulated, as the temperature difference between the exhaust air in the duct and the surrounding building material can cause condensation (which can cause mold and moisture build-up and damage the surrounding materials). outer hood. The outer hood has a circular flap, or series of louvers, to allow exhaust air to flow out of the fan. Once the fan stops running, the flaps or louvers close to prevent air from entering the fan system.

Sometimes bathroom fans also have a built-in light and a timer that turns off automatically after a certain amount of time.

How to clean and maintain a bathroom fan

Basic furnace maintenance includes replacing the filter every few months. However, since bathroom fans don’t have filters, you’re probably wondering how to keep them clean and dust-free.

Here are some easy steps to clean your bathroom fan:

Turn off the fan and disconnect the power supply to avoid electric shock. Dust and remove dirt from the outside of the bathroom fan. This helps avoid a big mess when you remove the cover. Remove the fan cover. You can usually easily do this with a standard size screwdriver. Dust the cover and then clean it with warm, soapy water. Dry it thoroughly after cleaning. Examine the inside of the fan and carefully remove dust and dirt. You will probably spend most of your time cleaning the fan blades, usually the dirtiest part. Replace the cover and connect the power supply.

Cleaning your bathroom fan twice a year is the best way to maintain it, and you don’t have to have it serviced unless it’s inefficient or making a strange noise.

Conclusion

The main parts of a bathroom fan are the motor, the fan, the ducts and the outer hood. It doesn’t need a filter as it doesn’t circulate air back into the room.

Rather, an exhaust fan pulls moist air from the bathroom into the unit and then exhausts it outside.

Using a filter with a bathroom fan would not work as effectively, could become a moisture trap and cause a build up of mold or bacteria.

Cleaning your bathroom fan is an easy way to avoid potential problems.

Try cleaning it twice a year and contact a professional if it’s not properly removing the condensation from your bathroom.

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