Ensuring a comfortable microclimate in the bathroom and shower room can be problematic. High levels of humidity have a detrimental effect on cabinets, mirrors and cabinets, facilitating the growth of mold.
If natural ventilation cannot cope, then you can install an exhaust fan in the bathroom - the unit forcibly removes exhaust humid air from the room.
We will tell you how to choose the appropriate model, and also describe the step-by-step process of installing the equipment. The installation technology is quite simple, the main thing is to take into account some connection nuances and follow the instructions below.
Main selection criteria
When choosing a fan for artificial ventilation in the bathroom, you should pay attention to the following parameters:
- Productivity , on which the air renewal rate depends. For a bathroom, the air exchange rate is assumed to be from 4 to 8. This means that in a room with a volume of 10 m3, you need to install a fan with a capacity of 40 to 80 m3/hour.
- Security level. It is recommended to choose devices with a power supply of 12 or 24 V. Selecting a model with a housing protected according to the IP24 or IP25 standard will also help ensure safety.
- Operation volume. The recommended noise level that will not affect the comfort of residents or guests is up to 55 dB.
- Dimensions. Must correspond to the cross-sectional dimensions of the air ducts. Standard fans are 100 or 125 mm.
To increase the efficiency of moisture removal and save energy, the fan may have additional functions. For example, a humidity sensor that automatically turns on ventilation, or a motion detector that starts the system when a person appears. The built-in timer will turn on the fan simultaneously with the lighting and turn it off after a while.
Fan installation
Typically, fans for toilets and bathrooms are installed in place of the ventilation grille, but before proceeding with installation, make sure that the diameter of the opening of the ventilation duct and the fan housing matches, and that the draft is good. Check it with a lit match, if the flame does not deviate towards the outlet, there is no draft, the channel needs to be cleaned.
Duct installation
It is better to fix the fan in the ventilation duct using special polymer glue. The front panel is removed and put away for a while. Glue is applied around the perimeter of the fan cover. The adhesive surfaces are connected for a few seconds. After which they separate and allow the glue to “set” a little. After a minute, press the fan tightly against the wall. Also, household fans can be fixed to the wall with dowels, if there are holes for them on the panel.
Fan installation process
Power connection
Before installing a fan in the bathroom, you need to do the wiring, determine how to turn the device on and off, and designate the installation location of the switches. To connect electrical appliances, use only three-core cables. Usually the wiring is hidden under finishing materials. But sometimes, the fan is installed after repair. In this case, the wiring can be hidden under a box or a decorative seam between the tiles. To do this, the seam is carefully cleaned, the wires are laid in it and rubbed again. The box is easily attached to the wall using polymer glue.
Fan installation process
Connecting the fan to the electrical outlet in the bathroom can be done in several ways. • To a single-key switch. The method involves simultaneously turning on the fan and lighting. From the distribution box, zero and ground are connected directly. The phase is taken from the same promotion, but after the switch. The scheme is simple, but not very convenient, since after turning off the light the fan will not remove unpleasant odors. • To a two-button switch. A more acceptable option for use in the bathroom. One switch key is responsible for the lighting, the other, respectively, for the exhaust fan for the bathroom. A phase comes to the switch from the distribution box, which is switched through two contacts to the lamp and to the fan. Zero and ground go directly from the junction box to the fan and lamp. • To the lamp. When forced ventilation is done in the bathroom without further renovation, the device can be connected directly to the lamp. A box is stretched from the lamp to the ventilation duct. The lamp is removed. All wires are fixed to one terminal box. The other end of the wire is connected to the fan contacts. Screw on the protective cap. Before installing the decorative grille, check the operation of the systems.
The flow of air into the bathroom is carried out through the gap between the floor and the door; if there is none, the operation of the system will be disrupted. You can increase the air flow into the room and the efficiency of air exchange by installing a grille at the bottom of the door.
Video: Installing a fan in the bathroom
Soler & Palau DECOR 300 C
A reliable and efficient 23 W model is suitable for installation in bathrooms with an area of 15–25 m2. Fan capacity is 250 m3 per hour, power supply is 220 V, noise level during operation is not higher than 46 dB. The device can withstand temperatures up to 40 °C and is designed for installation in air ducts with a diameter of 150 mm. To increase strength, its front panel is reinforced with stiffening ribs, and to protect it from splashes, the case received protection according to the IPX4 standard.
With a fairly high price for a fan of 3,600 rubles, the model is in demand due to its good performance and reliability, neat appearance and thoughtful protection. Not only moisture does not get inside the housing, but also most of the dust, from which you do not have to clean the blades.
Among the disadvantages are an increase in noise levels after just a few months of operation and the need for a large air duct. In narrow ventilation shafts the device will not work as efficiently.
Motors mm-100
The quietest fan in the review. Its operation will not only be effective, but will also not irritate residents with excessive noise, the maximum value of which is only 24 dB. The manufacturer from Bulgaria, although not very well known, has long proven itself in the market.
A special feature of the fan is its ability to operate at very high temperatures, up to +100 degrees. Can be installed in steam rooms, thermal baths and swimming pools, home saunas and other rooms with high temperature and humidity.
Pros:
- very quiet;
- can work at high temperature;
- is easy to install;
- has compact dimensions;
- nice appearance;
- high-quality assembly.
Minuses:
- not too high productivity, only 60 cubic meters per hour.
Electrolux EAF-150
A model costing about 4.5 thousand rubles, designed to serve premises with an area of 10–15 m2. Suitable for getting rid of excess moisture in large bathrooms. The maximum productivity of the device is 320 m3/hour, power is 25 W, the connection is made to a regular single-phase power supply of 220 V.
The fan has a durable housing made of ABS plastic. The noise level, in accordance with the technical specifications, should not exceed 35 dB, which makes it possible not to notice the operation of the device even at night. However, some users still complain of noticeable noise after using the hood for a long time.
The list of advantages of the device includes effective removal of moist air and the presence of a check valve, which allows you to avoid unpleasant odors entering the room. And also - a completely modern design and simple installation, high-quality assembly and reliable construction.
Top 10 Best Bathroom Fans
DiCiTi AURA 4 8.4 BT
Standard and inexpensive domestically produced products. This design is ideal for a small bathroom. The fan is quite weak and consumes little electricity, but even its power is quite enough to ensure air exchange at a speed of up to 90 cubic meters per hour. This model operates almost silently - when turned on, it emits no more than 25 dB. The manufacturer has provided the device with a reliable overheating protection system.
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It is quite acceptable to leave this fan on for quite a long time. Consumers claim that the power of such a device is quite sufficient not only for the bathroom, but also for a separate toilet and even a spacious kitchen. The design of the device is quite standard; there are no distinctive details here, although the fan looks quite attractive.
Advantages:
- It works very quietly - the noise level is only 25 dB;
- Careful and high-quality protection against overheating is provided;
- Reasonable cost;
- The engine runs on ball bearings;
- Consumes a fairly small amount of electricity;
- Easy to install.
Flaws:
- The engine is rather weak - its resource is not enough for a spacious bathroom.
DiCiTi AURA 4 8.4 BT
Blauberg Quatro 100 14 BT
The model indicator of this device is even lower - only 88 cubic meters per hour, but this is fully compensated by the presence of a special check valve in the device. With its help, it will be possible to prevent unpleasant odors from entering the room from the ventilation shaft. In addition, this fan can be mounted directly in the ceiling.
In terms of key parameters, the model turned out to be of quite high quality, which is not too surprising, since it is produced by a German factory. The highest quality plastic is used for production. The assembly is excellent, so we managed to achieve very good waterproof parameters. This model is produced in several color options - white, gray and yellow. It is not too noisy during operation - only 33 dB.
Advantages:
- Presence of a check valve;
- It is possible to mount directly into the ceiling;
- The case is carefully protected from moisture penetration;
- It works quite quietly;
- Reasonable price.
Flaws:
- Air exchange rates could be higher.
Blauberg Quatro 100 14 BT
CATA E-120 GTH 15 BT
The model is very expensive, but the workmanship is also at a very decent level. This axial design has a standard installation diameter of 118 mm. The product looks very stylish, largely thanks to the front panel made of high-quality, carefully tempered glass, which allows the fan to optimally fit into the modern interior of a kitchen or bathroom. The air exchange of the fan is about 210 cubic meters per hour - quite a decent figure, so these products are often installed in spacious rooms.
The case has received high-quality moisture protection, so the device tolerates high humidity conditions well. The model is equipped with a display, has a built-in humidity sensor, a shutdown delay function and a 15-hour timer. The device operates quite quietly - it creates only 33 dB of noise.
Advantages:
- Stylish and attractive appearance - fits optimally into any interior;
- Expanded functionality of this model;
- Reliable protection against moisture ingress;
- The device operates quite quietly;
- Equipped with a timer and display.
Flaws:
- It's very expensive.
CATA E-120 GTH 15 BT
Dospel Styl 100 S 15 BT
Despite the quite reasonable price, this Polish-made exhaust fan easily copes with the functions assigned to it and is characterized by very high performance qualities. With a product power of 15 W, air exchange reaches 100 cubic meters per hour. Manufacturers saved a lot on design - the device turned out to be very simple and, to some extent, even nondescript. It is completely unobtrusive, which pleases many users, since this device will fit organically into any interior of the room.
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The fan has a fairly long service life. Its body is made of reliable plastic, which is resistant to serious temperature changes, exposure to moisture or other aggressive environments. It will retain its original appearance for a long time.
Advantages:
- Reasonable cost;
- Long period of operation;
- Modest external design;
- Excellent plastic quality;
- It is easy to care for this device.
Flaws:
- One of the noisiest devices in our entire review.
Dospel Styl 100 S 15 BT
CATA E-100 GTH
Another model from a well-known Spanish company that produces a large variety of overhead fans of the most modern type. This device has advanced functionality and a very unusual appearance. There is a timer equipped here that can turn off the device strictly at a given time. In addition, the fan is also equipped with a display that has a built-in humidity level indicator. The power consumption of the device is quite insignificant - it only needs 8 W, but this factor does not in the least prevent the device from driving up to one hundred cubic meters of air through itself within an hour.
The product has a very long service life, largely due to the excellent build quality and materials used in production. It has a unique switch-off delay feature that will keep the device on for some time. The front panel is available in white or gray colors. The design is stylish, all lines are strict.
Advantages:
- Convenient and functional display with humidity sensor;
- There is a timer;
- The housing is completely sealed;
- There is a built-in thermometer;
- Attractive appearance.
Flaws:
- It's very expensive.
CATA E-100 GTH
Soler & Palau HV-300 A
The most expensive product in our entire review. However, it is really capable of impressing with its useful characteristics. First of all, this model is distinguished by very high power - it consumes about 68 W of energy, which allows you to achieve excellent air exchange rates that reach 1100 cubic meters per hour. This overhead fan is able to ensure uniform air circulation in the room in the shortest possible time and create optimal humidity levels.
The device comes with a remote control, which is very convenient during operation. With its help, you can quickly select the most suitable speed mode - the fan blades can rotate at one of two speeds. The device was developed specifically for large bathrooms. It is usually purchased for themselves by owners of country houses and fairly large apartments.
Advantages:
- Excellent fan efficiency;
- If desired, you can control it remotely via the remote control;
- Possibility of installation on glass;
- Resists wear well;
- There is a check valve.
Flaws:
- The cost is very high;
- Consumes a lot of electricity;
- Quite a noisy device.
Soler & Palau HV-300 A
VENTS 100 Quiet
Products of excellent quality at a very affordable price. The fan itself has compact overall dimensions - 15.8 x 15.8 x 10.7 cm, so it is suitable even for small valves. The device is characterized by low power parameters - it consumes only 7.5 W, which ensures air exchange at the level of 95-100 cubic meters per hour.
Perfect for a small bathroom - it quickly removes excess water vapor, preventing it from being absorbed into the walls and ceiling of the room. The fan itself is equipped with high-quality protection against water penetration under the housing, making the device reliable and durable. The device is equipped with a check valve that prevents contaminated air from entering the room. The fan operates almost silently.
Advantages:
- Low cost;
- Creates a noise level of only 25 dB;
- Very powerful engine with a lot of revolutions;
- Compact design;
- Elementary device;
- Insignificant mass.
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Flaws:
- The outer part is large, so it is too conspicuous.
VENTS 100 Quiet
ERA AURA 5
The top three best fans for the bathroom are opened by a Russian-made model, which is very popular among users. It is characterized by optimal operating parameters: the power is 10 W with an air exchange of about 180 cubic meters per hour. Such indicators can ensure the most efficient circulation of air flows in the room, while maintaining an optimal level of humidity. The design is quite simple, but very reliable.
The fan has a useful function: high-quality protection against overheating. The device operates relatively quietly - the noise level is 30-32 dB, it also has low weight and compact overall dimensions.
Advantages:
- The body is made from reliable and durable materials;
- Reasonable cost;
- Quite good efficiency;
- The warranty period is 5 years;
- A powerful and modern engine is installed.
Flaws:
- For a medium-sized bathroom, its power will not be enough.
ERA AURA 5
Electrolux EAF-150
The device was developed by Swedish engineers, but is produced at Chinese production facilities. It proved to be most effective in its work. The device turned out to be quite powerful - it consumes 25 W of energy. Thanks to this, the design creates fast and efficient air circulation inside the room. It copes with its task perfectly and can be used even in spacious bathrooms and kitchens.
The air exchange rate is significant - 320 cubic meters per hour. The design is characterized by high performance and excellent wear resistance. The housing is carefully protected from moisture penetration.
Advantages:
- Stylish appearance;
- The optimum ratio of price and quality;
- Decent power level;
- Available in several color options;
- Suitable even for fairly spacious rooms.
Flaws:
- Some people are still prejudiced against Chinese-made products.
Electrolux EAF-150
Soler & Palau SILENT-100 CZ
The leader in the ranking of the best bathroom fans turned out to be a fairly simple device, which is also distinguished by its quite affordable cost and optimal performance indicators. The fan here turns on along with the light in the bathroom and continues to work as long as a person is there.
The design type of the device is axial, the fan itself is placed in a moisture-proof housing, the air exchange rate is about 95 cubic meters of air per hour. This is the best option for a small bathroom. The noise level is also low - 27 dB.
Advantages:
- Reliable protection against moisture;
- Easy to use;
- Reasonable cost;
- Works quietly;
- Long service life;
- Decent quality product.
Flaws:
- Not very convenient to clean.
Low noise exhaust fan Soler and Palau Silent 100 CZ: unboxing and test
Soler & Palau SILENT-100 CZ
Electrolux EAFM-100
Compact exhaust fan, capable of operating in high humidity conditions and designed for rooms with a volume of up to 15–25 m3. The design includes a check valve to protect against foreign odors entering the room, a humidity sensor and even a shutdown timer. The device can automatically turn on if the air is too humid and turn off after 1-20 minutes of operation. The special shape of the impeller ensures a noise level of up to 33 dB.
The advantages of the fan include an affordable price, small size and weight, and a high level of automation of its operation. The advantages are ease of installation, build quality, noiselessness and design. However, due to the decorative panel, the performance of the device is relatively low.
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Exhaust fan which brand to choose
When purchasing an exhaust fan, it is recommended to limit your choice only to reliable manufacturers. Companies that specialize in the design and manufacture of ventilation devices provide the best quality.
Experts included in the TOP popular manufacturers:
- VENTS. The undisputed leader in the domestic and foreign markets, both in quality and range. The company has its own research and production base in Europe, and independently manufactures all types of equipment, from household to industrial devices. Owns the brands Domovent, Aluvent, X-VENT, AirVENTS and Plastivent.
- Soler & Palau . One of the company’s competitive advantages is constant research activities, development and implementation of modern technological solutions. The company focuses on quality; production facilities are located in Europe, the USA, China and Singapore. Soler & Palau products are supplied to 90 countries around the world, where they are in stable demand.
- Blauberg Quatro. The company produces modern energy-saving ventilation equipment for household and industrial grades. In addition to excellent German quality, customers are offered various color solutions and a sophisticated, stylish design.
- ERA. The company has been producing equipment for ventilation systems since 1997, developing a line of up to 2,000 items. ERA products are supplied to 50 countries around the world, the company has an active export policy, which requires strict quality control at every stage: from development to testing. Reliability and stability in operation have made the brand a leader in the Russian market.
- Electrolux. The Swedish company is a world leader in the production of household appliances. The brand’s assortment includes thousands of products for various purposes, including household ventilation equipment. Over a hundred years of existence, the company has accumulated a wealth of experience and received a lot of awards and prizes. There is no doubt about the quality of the products, which is why buyers choose Electrolux.
CATA E-100 GTH
Multifunctional axial fan costing about 12 thousand rubles. With a capacity of up to 100 m3/h, it is suitable for efficient operation in rooms of 5–10 m2. It features minimal power consumption (8 W), low noise level within 31 dB and many additional devices. Among them are a humidity control sensor, a timer, and even a screen that displays information about the microclimate in the bathroom.
The advantages of the CATA E-100 GTH model include a stylish design, an informative display and convenient setup. Users also praise the device for its economical energy consumption, which is provided by both humidity sensors and the design feature of the impeller. The only downside is the relatively high cost of the device.
Standard 4ETF
The review ends with a very interesting model with an automatic operating system. This is quite a productive device. In an hour, it manages to pass about 100 cubic meters of air. It turns on thanks to a built-in light-sensitive photocell. Interestingly, the device can operate in one of two modes: “bathroom” and “toilet”. To select the one you need, simply reset the jumper located on the timer board.
The “bathroom” mode involves automatically turning on the device immediately after the light in the room goes out. The second mode, on the contrary, turns on the fan as soon as someone enters the bathroom and turns on the light. The device turns off automatically after the time set by the timer has passed. That is, having set the necessary settings once, you will never have to worry about turning the device on or off again.
Pros:
- automatic control via a photosensitive element;
- multifunctionality;
- good performance;
- timer;
- two operating speeds;
- pleasant appearance;
- great value.
Minuses:
- Installation may require professional assistance.
ERA 4C
When choosing which bathroom fan is best, you should pay attention to one of the most budget options - the ERA 4C model. It will cost only 900 rubles, although it is even equipped with a check valve and works very quietly - the noise level does not exceed 35 dB. There is also overheating protection and LED indication on the front panel, and the device’s productivity reaches 97 m3/hour.
Features of the device are good design, low noise level and easy installation. The main advantage is the affordable price. Among the disadvantages is the high probability of extraneous noise and vibration from the impeller after several months of operation.
