A bathroom fan is an essential component ensuring proper air circulation and moisture removal from the bathroom. Choosing the right fan can be crucial for the comfort of use and air quality in the room.
In this guide, we will discuss the types of bathroom fans available on the market, key technical specifications, features, and the choice of fan in terms of noise generated. Which bathroom fan to choose? A few words about this in the rest of the article.
Types of Bathroom Fans Available on the Market
When looking for the right fan for the bathroom, it is important to pay attention to several crucial aspects, as different types of such devices are available on the market.
In terms of how they operate, bathroom fans can be divided into two main types:
- Exhaust fans – these are the most common type of fans. They remove moisture and unpleasant odors from the bathroom by venting them outside. They are usually mounted on the ceiling or wall;
- Supply-exhaust fans – this type of fan not only removes moisture and odors but can also bring fresh air into the room. It is an ideal solution for bathrooms without windows.
Division of Devices by Fan Mounting Method
As for the way of mounting fans, the devices available on the market can be found among:
- Channel fans – these are fans placed in the ventilation duct. They are suitable for large bathrooms and require ventilation systems;
- Ductless fans – this type of fan is easy to install as it does not require a ventilation duct. They work perfectly in small bathrooms and toilettes.
Technical Specifications to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Fan
When choosing a bathroom fan, you cannot rely solely on its price. There are various technical specifications to consider before purchasing the device. These are:
- Efficiency,
- Noise level,
- Energy consumption,
- Fan control method.
Bathroom Fan Efficiency
Fan efficiency is expressed in cubic meters per hour (m³/h). In other words, efficiency specifies how much air the fan can process in one hour, meaning how quickly it can remove “used” air from the bathroom.
This value should be matched to the size of the room, as a device with too low an efficiency will not be able to effectively remove moisture or unpleasant odors from the bathroom.
It is recommended that the efficiency is at least three times the volume of the bathroom. Efficiency is indicated on the fan's packaging. Simply estimate the volume of the room and multiply it by three. This is particularly important for large bathrooms. In small rooms, most fans available on the market have an efficiency even exceeding their size. Standard fans allow for 10 - 15 air exchanges per hour.
Noise Level
Fans are mechanical devices that generate noise, so it is very important to choose a fan with the lowest possible noise level. Especially if the apartment is small or if the bathroom is near the bedroom. An operating fan should not be heard in other rooms.
The noise level produced during fan operation is measured in decibels (dB). The recommended noise level in the bathroom is around 30-40 dB. The quietest fans available on the market produce sound with an intensity of around 21 dB, which means their loudness is comparable to a whisper.
Fan Control Method
Most often a bathroom fan turns on automatically, but fans with a pull switch and devices connected to a light switch are also available on the market. The latter type will not work in bathrooms equipped with a window, where you do not turn on the light during the day. Here, a better solution would be an automatic fan or one manually activated by a pull switch.
Energy Consumption
Bathroom fans do not consume much electricity - it is estimated that devices designed for home use consume between 10 and 100 watts. If you care about controlling the amount of electricity consumed, pay attention to the markings on the fan's packaging.
By choosing a manually controlled device, you will have a real impact on the fan's operation time, and thus on the amount of electricity consumed. In this situation, it may seem that automatically operating fans consume more electricity - in reality, these differences are minimal.
Bathroom Fans Features
The most important function of bathroom fans is air exchange in the room. However, most modern devices are equipped with a range of additional features that affect user comfort.
Motion Sensor
A bathroom fan with a motion sensor turns on immediately upon entering the bathroom. The device can be connected to an automatic timer, which will turn off the fan after a specified time if it does not detect movement in the room.
Humidity Sensor
Fans with a humidity sensor automatically activate at high humidity, for example after a bath. This solution prevents water from settling on walls or bathroom furniture, minimizing the risk of mold or mildew appearing.
Choose the fan with a humidity sensor yourself, and decide which model will work in your bathroom or consult with our specialist.
Light Sensor
Fans with a light sensor are suitable for windowless rooms. This type of fan is connected to a light switch.
There are several types of fans equipped with a light sensor. Some turn on simultaneously with the light, while in others an automatic timer will turn on the fan only when the light is on for a specific time.
Where to Install a Bathroom Fan?
The fan is mounted in the place of the ventilation grille located on the wall or ceiling.
Bathroom fans can also differ in installation method, which is worth remembering during purchases. It is good to know the diameter of the ventilation duct where the new device will be placed. This way, additional construction work will not be needed during its installation.
Which Bathroom Fan to Choose – Summary
The bathroom and toilet are places particularly prone to moisture and unpleasant odors. To prevent this, proper air circulation must be ensured. You can do this by installing a bathroom fan.
Bathroom fans available on the market can be equipped with additional solutions to improve their efficiency. These are most often motion sensors and humidity sensors.
When choosing the right device for your bathroom, it is important to ensure it is matched to the room's volume. This is particularly important for larger bathrooms.
Depending on your needs, you can opt for a bathroom fan connected to a light switch, a model equipped with a separate switch, or even a pull switch. Decide for yourself which solution will work best in your apartment or house.