How to Install a Bathroom Fan

Every bathroom in your home should be equipped with a fan that can efficiently ventilate the area, keeping it free from mold and mildew. Whether you're replacing a fan that has broken, or changing it out for one with more power, consider doing the job yourself before hiring a contractor or electrician. Here's how.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdrivers
• Saw or knife
• Exhaust-fan kit

1. Before doing any electrical work in the bathroom, shut off the power to your existing fixture at the circuit panel. Once this is done, you can remove the existing light fixture or fan.

2. Mark your spot. Using your template or the fan housing, trace around it to determine the exact location and size of the opening. If you're replacing the fan, you know the general location, but the new fan probably isn't the same exact size as the old fan, so you need to cut a new hole.

3. Choose your tool and cut away. To assure a clean cut for the new hole in the ceiling, use a drywall saw, reciprocating saw, saber saw or utility knife. Make the cut as accurate as possible to improve insulation.

4. Attach the ductwork. Once the duct is connected to the fan housing, you can secure the housing over the opening you made. Attach the housing to the ceiling using the fasteners that were included in the fan kit you purchased.

5. Cover it up. Using the supplies from your fan kit, you can now cover the housing with the unit cover.

6. Finish the job. Now you need to make sure the fan works. To accomplish this, you need to connect the unit to the existing wiring at the wall switch. Turn the power back on and flip the switch.