Here’s How to Choose the Right Fan for Your Bathroom

Types of Bathroom Fans

The three main types of bathroom exhaust fans are defined by their installation style. Each has its own strengths and considerations. Making the right choice depends on factors like bathroom design, size and location. Here’s how they compare.

Buying Considerations

Once you know what type of bathroom fan you prefer, you’ll want to consider other factors like power, noise and ease of maintenance. Here’s what you need to know.

Airflow Volume (CFM)

A bathroom fan’s CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating refers to the volume of air it moves in one minute. The higher the CFM number, the better. Your bath fan should completely refresh bathroom air eight times each hour. Look for a fan with a CFM rating that accommodates your bathroom size with this formula: Bathroom Cubic Feet (L x W x H) x 8 (Air Changes) ÷ 60 (minutes) = Necessary CFM Rating.

Fan Noise

The loudness of a bathroom exhaust fan is measured in sones, not decibels. For example, a kitchen refrigerator emits about one sone, while a normal conversation level is about four sones. Look for a sone rating you’ll be comfortable with, but remember that the sone level will be less noticeable if you choose an inline fan.

Maintenance Needs

Any kind of extractor fan will generate static electricity, leading to an accumulation of dust on the fan and housing. Over time, you will see dust sticking to the fan cover or grille. Consider the cover or grille design when buying a fan; while all fans require periodic cleaning, some vent styles may be easier to clean than others.

Bathroom Fan Features

Bath fans do more than just boost air quality; the best of them can also boost your enjoyment of your bathroom. Here are features that can save energy, add convenience and elevate a basic bathroom into a bath retreat.

Fan Light

Enhance your bathroom lightscape by choosing a fan with built-in LED lighting. It can act as mood lighting and as a gentle nightlight for late-night bathroom visits.

Bluetooth® Exhaust Fan

Turn your bath into a wellness retreat with a wireless speaker that connects with your mobile device so you can listen to music, podcasts or guided meditation in the shower or tub.

Heater

A built-in heater helps keep your bathroom cozier and has the added benefit of reducing steam by keeping the room and shower temperatures closer to one another.

Humidity Sensor

This smart design feature turns on the fan whenever it detects increased humidity in the room. It’s great for households with forgetful kids.

Motion Sensor

Another time- and effort-saving feature, a motion detector will start the exhaust fan (or other features) whenever someone enters the bathroom.

Timer

A timer is ideal for busy households where people may forget to turn off the fan before leaving for the day.