One of the quickest ways to improve the
air quality in your home is to install a
bathroom exhaust fan. A
bathroom exhaust fan is a critical part of the home’s ventilation system, as it will help remove odors and moisture. Without a
bathroom exhaust fan humidity in your house will enter the walls, blister and peel paint and wallpaper and damage furnishings, as well as causing mildew and mold growth.
Even if you already have a bathroom exhaust fan in your home, there are some good reasons to consider installing a new one. One of the most common problems with older fans is that they are too noisy. So noisy, in fact, many homeowners don’t actually use them very often. Other problems with older fans are that they may not work as efficiently as newer systems. Older systems are not energy efficient either.
When choosing a bathroom exhaust system, look for a fan that is both quiet and energy-efficient. A quality fan is suitable for continuous use and has replaceable parts. A large bathroom, or one with bigger fixtures, will need a bathroom exhaust fan with a larger capacity. Make sure to position the fan as close as possible to the source of the moisture.
Most exhaust systems consist of an exhaust fan, ducting and an exterior hood.
Select low-resistance (smooth) exhaust ducting and seal all duct joints and connections with duct tape. Insulate any ductwork that runs through an unheated area to avoid moisture problems and maximize energy efficiency. Install the exhaust hood in a place where it will not cause moisture damage on exterior surfaces. Never exhaust air into the attic, ceiling cavity or roof soffit, as it will most likely result in moisture problems and mold.
Make sure to install all parts of the exhaust system according to the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
It is also important to choose the right controls for your system. Many bathroom fans are connected to the light switch and come on when the light is turned on. The problem with this method, however, is that the person using the bathroom will turn off the light when they leave but there may still be either odor, or moisture, left in the bathroom. An electronic timer is a better method as it offers a wide range of settings. Some models use motion or humidity sensors, or both, to control the fan. Whatever system you eventually choose, it is best to keep the fan running for about 15 minutes after you leave the bathroom.
The decision of whether to install your bathroom exhaust fan yourself or hire someone to do it for you depends largely on your skill and comfort level. A do-it-yourself homeowner can certainly do it, however, it does involve working with electricity — something that is often best left to a professional.
If you do decide to tackle the job on your own check a website such as Lowes, which has a detailed explanation in their “How-to-Library’ section. The following link will take you there: www.lowes.com
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