How to Choose a Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Bathroom exhaust fans do more than just remove odors from the home. They also remove moisture from the bathroom and vent it through the roof to the outside. This removal of moisture is critical to prevent the growth of mold and mildew within the home. Although bathroom exhaust fans are available in a wide variety of designs, there are more important things to consider when selecting one, such as the size of the bathroom and the noise produced by the fan. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Determine the correct size of exhaust fan required for the bathroom by determining the air flow exchange for the room. To do this use the following formula using the measurements of the bathroom: length x width x height. Divide the number by 7.5. The resulting number is the minimum cubic feet per minute (CPM) of air exchange that is needed for the bathroom. This number is listed on the fan's box.
-
2
Decide how quiet you want the fan to be. The sound rating of bathroom fans is measured in SONES and is displayed on the exhaust fan box. For example, 4.0 SONES equals the sound of a television; 0.5 SONES equals the sound of rustling leaves.
-
-
3
Decide what other features the exhaust fan should have. Some additional features include lights or heating elements.
-
4
Decide what type of decorative look the fan should have. This is based solely on personal preference and the decor of the bathroom. However, the more decorative the fan, the higher the price.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Some bathroom exhaust fans are equipped with timers that run for a certain amount of time after use of the bathroom and then shut off. Timers can help conserve energy since the fan will not run longer than necessary.