Things You'll Need:
- Tape measure
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Step 1
Measure the space in which you plan to install a bath ventilation fan. Use a tape measure to get an understanding of how much space you have to work with when selecting the right bath ventilation fan. Bath fans are usually installed above a sink or in the center of the ceiling.
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Step 2
Compute the dimensions of your entire bathroom. This will help a hardware store sales professional to determine how powerful your bath fan must be. Use a tape measure to get the room's length and width, and then multiply those two numbers to compute the room's square footage.
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Step 3
Decide if you want your bath fan to work in conjunction with your bathroom's lighting system. It's possible to connect the two systems so that every time you flip your lights on, the ventilation fan will start, too. It's possible to buy all-in-one kits that include both lights and a fan.
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Step 4
Check to see whether you already have an exhaust system ready. This can make a big difference in the tools and equipment you'll need to install a fan once you purchase it. You may need to consult a construction expert to see whether your bathroom can be easily connected to air ducts that will feed moist bathroom air outside.
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Step 5
Visit your local hardware store and browse the selection of bath ventilation fans. Review your measurements with a sales professional. Together, you'll be able to find the right fan to meet your individual needs.
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Step 6
Evaluate a fan's "CFM" rating. This explains how many cubic feet per meter the fan is able to expel. The higher the rating, the more powerful the fan is.
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Step 7
Compare the "sone" rating of each brand. This number is used to determine the level of noise each bath fan will make while operational. This number will be printed on the fan's packaging, along with a guide to help you compare it to other fans.
