8 Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans of 2024
6/8
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
7/8
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
8/8
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
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 a problem arises that requires fixing, accessing ceiling-mounted bathroom fans can be more challenging.
- 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 back drafting 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.
What to Look for When Buying a Bathroom Fan
- Airflow: Cubic feet per minute (CFM) is a measure of the fan’s airflow capacity. “Choose a fan model based on room size and the recommended air changes per hour (ACH), which determines the CFM,” explains Cantor. To do this, take your area (length x width) x height x ACH/60—or use a CFM calculator. “For most bathrooms, the recommended air exchanges per hour (ACH) is 8,” he says.
- Noise level: The noise level of the fan is measured in sones. Lower sone ratings indicate quieter operation. Consider a fan with a lower sone rating if noise is a concern, especially if the bathroom is located near bedrooms.
- Duct size and length: Ensure that the fan’s duct size matches your existing ductwork. Also, consider the length and layout of the ductwork to maintain optimal performance. Shorter, straighter ducts generally provide better airflow.
- Humidity sensing: Some fans come with built-in humidity sensors that automatically activate the fan when moisture levels rise. “In California, fans must have a built-in humidistat to automatically activate ventilation when moisture levels are above normal,” says Cantor.
- Energy efficiency: Look for an Energy Star-certified fan, as these models are designed to be more energy-efficient, saving you money on electricity bills.
- Lighting and heating options: Some bathroom fans come with integrated lighting or heating elements, notes Cantor. If you need additional features, consider a fan that combines these functions for added convenience.
- Building codes and regulations: Check local regulations to ensure compliance with ventilation requirements. Some areas may have specific guidelines for bathroom fans. “In most municipalities, fans are required in the building codes even if there is a window for ventilation,” notes Cantor.
- Installation: Consider the ease of installation, especially if you plan to install the fan yourself. Some models come with user-friendly installation features.
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. “Bathroom fans are always recommended to mitigate odors and move air to reduce moisture that can cause mold growth,” says Cantor. 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. Clean exhaust fans of debris periodically.
