Install Bathroom Exhaust Fans to Remove Moisture
Quiet Motor Vents Incorporate Lights as well as Heaters and Ductwork
Apr 16, 2009
Unlike long ago, almost all new homes are built with bathroom exhaust fans. Building contractors and homeowners alike understand the importance of the job these ventilation units perform. A buildup of moisture is irritating when hurrying to get ready for work and the mirror is fogged up.
Other than that, there is the health issue of toxic mold and mildew growing in a humid environment. Proper ventilation is a homeowners insurance against this happening.
Different Types of Bathroom Exhaust Fans
As with all bath fixtures and furnishings, from plumbing and skylights to sunken tubs and marble tile, a homeowner, architect, or interior decorator can spend buckets of money in this space. Understandably too, because there is such a high return on investment with bathroom remodeling projects.
Almost all home builders install inexpensive contractor-grade fans, even in high-end houses. But there are options. Many units incorporate a light fixture. This is a handy option because there is only one electrical switch to flip when entering the room.
An additional option is a heater. The further north the home is located, the more of a viable option this becomes.
Upgrade to Peace and Quiet
The next thing to think about is the noise factor. Basic units simply have the fan motor sitting mere inches from the grill. They simply vent the air into the attic. This in itself is not a problem if the attic is well-vented with ridge vents, solar powered vents, or whirlybirds.
But the noise can be irritating, especially for exhausted people who relax with candles, a tub of hot water, and a glass of wine. There is a solution. There are models on the market that actually have the motor 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3.0 meters) up into the attic space.
There is a flexible duct secured to the top of the fan. The attic ductwork exits through the roof or the side of the home and the motor is connected right into the duct. It's amazing how quiet these fans are.
Installing an Exhaust Fan
If there is an existing fan, the job is fairly straightforward. Buy a unit that's the same size or larger to make sure that it will cover properly. One thing to pay attention to is the wiring. A unit that incorporates a heater may need a dedicated circuit for the heating element.
Most modern fan housings screw directly to a ceiling joist so it may be necessary to remove an existing electrical box.
Some fans are powered by two wire cable and some by three. Check for this and make the appropriate changes. Remember:
- Whenever working with electrical connections, turn off the power at the circuit breaker box.
- Always check the local electrical building code and comply with it.
When making an installation in a bath not equipped with an existing ventilation unit, it will be necessary to cut the hole in the ceiling, run the cable and install any ducts and vents to the exterior of the home.
