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The amount of moisture produced in your bathroom from the average shower or bath not only steams up mirrors and windows, but also promotes the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions and other physical problems. Additionally, excessive moisture can cause wallpaper and paint to peel, and wood to rot. A bathroom exhaust fan will combat the buildup of mold and mildew due to excessive moisture, and can provide heat and light as well. The bathroom exhaust fan takes the moisture out of the bathroom and sends it out of the house via ducting. Always vent to the outdoors via a wall, soffit or roof cap. For bathrooms up to 100 square feet, the Home Ventilation Institute recommends a bathroom fan provide approximately eight air changes per hour (1 CFM per square foot) to ventilate the bathroom properly. To figure out how many CFM (cubic feet per minute) you need, multiply the dimensions of your bathroom by 1 CFM. The lowest acceptable ventilation rate is 50 CFM. For larger bathrooms, it is recommended that the ventilation rate be based on the number and type of fixtures in the bathroom (shower, toilet, bathtub, etc.), as well as the number of square feet. Since the recommended duration of ventilation is 20 minutes after the use of the bathroom, an exhaust fan with a timer is a good solution because it can be programmed to shut off at the designated time. Another consideration when purchasing a bathroom fan is the sound. If the fan motor is too loud, chances are you won't use it at all. Make sure the sound output level (sones) range from <.03 to 3 for a quieter output. Bathroom ventilation fans are available in several different applications. Choose from ceiling mount, wall mount and inline, depending upon the configuration of your bathroom. Multiport and inline fans can be mounted in the attic or basement, and have a lower sone level because they are installed in a remote location. Bathroom fans can also be decorative, with light fixtures and designer finishes to add dramatic detail. A recessed light/ventilation fan incorporates powerful bathroom ventilation and recessed lighting in the same design. Combination units provide light, ventilation and heat all in one place, adding an extra degree of warmth. Motion and humidity detection fans have sensors that operate when movement and humidity is present in the bathroom, eliminating the need for a wall switch. They are ideal for those who are elderly or physically challenged because of the hands-free operation.
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