Bathroom Exhaust Fan Ratings

Exhaust fans are essential to building ventilation. They help to lower energy costs and remove excess moisture. Here are some tips on ratings and replacement:

• If you plan to replace an existing fan, look for one with an air movement rating of 50 CFM (cubic feet per minute) or more.
• A 120 volt heater is ideal for home bathrooms – 250 volt units are designed for larger spaces and require special wiring.
• Before replacing a bathroom ventilation fan, be sure the existing circuit can handle the amperage of the fan.
• Measure to see if the new exhaust heater is big enough to cover the hole left by the old unit. Do not install a fan with a heater over the bathtub or shower.
• Make the most of your time and money. Look for bathroom exhaust heaters that have built-in lighting.