Choosing a bathroom fan

Bathroom fans are considered as air extractors. They expel stale and damp air outside without bringing fresh air in, and are very effective when they are the right size for the room.

Nowadays, all new bathrooms must be equipped with a ventilation system in compliance with the building code.

There are two main categories of bathroom fans:

All bathroom ventilation systems operate with either a propeller or turbine fan.

Ventilation ducts can be either flexible or rigid. Flexible ducts are recommended for distances less than 16'. They are also adaptable and can be navigated through any number of obstacles. Opt for insulated flexible ducts. The smooth surface of rigid ducts facilitates air circulation which is why it is recommended for longer distances.

Shorter ducts mean better air circulation and reduced power requirements. We recommend using ducts that are at least 4" in diameter. Longer ducts should be 6" in diameter which will facilitate the movement of air. Smaller ducts, 3" in diameter, are not recommended.

Fans with integrated lighting are very practical in small bathrooms. You can also find fans that include a heat lamp, which can be very welcome when you step out of the bath or shower. Some models offer low-wattage night lights, which is useful for the children's bathroom.

The grille is usually made of plastic and can be square, rectangular or circular in shape. It fastens to the housing and can be removed to facilitate installation and maintenance.

When you are determining the location of the fan, take into account that the housing must be solidly secured to floor joists in the attic. Fans are typically installed on the ceiling in the middle of the room, or depending on the model, directly above the shower or bathtub with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI protected).

The fan can also be installed on the bathroom wall; this type of installation is less effective since heat and moisture rises. If the toilet is located in an enclosed space, you should also consider installing a fan there.

Ductwork is concealed in the ceiling, attic or crawl space and vented to the outside. Ductwork must be installed lying horizontally, sloping downwards slightly so that any accumulated water can easily drain out if condensation occurs. You want to properly insulate your ventilation system and apply caulk where necessary to guard against heat loss. If your fan installation is part of a renovation project, existing plumbing and electrical work may influence the path the ducting needs to follow.

Unless you are very experienced in electrical work, it is highly recommended that you call upon a master electrician to connect your new fan. Remember that in Quebec, all electrical installations must be carried out by a master electrician and member of the Corporation des maîtres électriciens du Québec (CMEQ).

Furthermore, call upon qualified professionals if you prefer not to do it yourself.