The 12 Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans: A Definitive Guide & Comparison

Taking a shower every day is very refreshing and can start your day right. That is until you get to the mirror and don’t see your face because it is fogged up. The solution? Get a bathroom exhaust fan! Not only does it get rid of the moist air in your bathroom, but it also prevents the growth of molds and mildew, which can be bad for your health. Bathroom exhaust fans get rid of unpleasant odors, too.

There are a lot of ventilating fans in the market, of course. Not all models are the same, so it can be confusing which one to get. Exhaust fans will help keep your bathroom ventilated at all times, so it is vital to buy a good one.

To help you decide, we came up with a review of the 12 best bathroom exhaust fans in the market today. Choose any of these to make your bathroom experience comfortable. For those in a hurry, we would recommend Panasonic FV-11VHL2 WhisperWarm 110 CFM Ceiling Mounted Fan. This is a fan, heater, and light source that guarantees long-lasting silent performance.

Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans In 2022: Quick Comparision

Product NameLatest PriceNoise (Sones)Air Flow (CFM)
Panasonic FV-11VHL2 WhisperWarmCheck Price0.7 Sones110 CFM
Delta Breez SLM70 SlimCheck Price2.0 Sones70 CFM
KAZE APPLIANCE SE90TL2 Ultra QuietCheck Price0.3 Sones90 CFM
BV Ultra-Quiet Exhaust FanCheck Price0.8 Sones90 CFM
Panasonic FV-08WQ1 WhisperWallCheck Price1.1 Sones70 CFM
Delta Breez GreenBuilder GBR80HLEDCheck Price0.8 Sones80 CFM
Broan QTX110HL Ultra Bath FanCheck Price0.9 Sones110 CFM
Delta BreezGreenBuilder GBR100Check Price1.4 Sones100 CFM
Broan SPK110 Speaker FanCheck Price1.0 Sones110 CFM
Panasonic FV-15VQL6 WhisperLiteCheck Price1.0 Sones150 CFM
Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeilingCheck Price2.0 Sones290 CFM
VES 24″ Exhaust Shutter FanCheck PriceN/A5850 CFM

1. Panasonic FV-11VHL2 WhisperWarm 110 CFM Ceiling Mounted Fan

Panasonic FV-11VHL2 WhisperWarm

Like the WhisperCeiling, the Panasonic FV-11VHL2 WhisperWarm ventilating fan is also a quality product that you would want for your bathroom. With a speed of 110 CFM, more air is drawn in and from both sides thus working at a faster pace.

The exterior steel casing is durable and rustproof. Its safety features include an enclosed condenser motor and insulated electrical components to avoid humidity from corroding them up. When used for heating, the heat-generating element is coated with magnesium oxide for faster heat transfer.

The Panasonic WhisperWarm fan includes a heater and two 18W fluorescent bulbs for a night light. These features make it distinct from other fans in its category. Also, you will find a blower wheel among its components that draws air on both sides, allowing for a larger surface area for air to pass through.

Though not as quiet as the Panasonic WhisperCeiling, the WhisperWarm is still relatively noiseless with a noise level of 0.7 sones (as opposed to 0.3 for WhisperCeiling). The great news is that WhisperWarm only consumes 30.60W of power regardless of its amazing three in one feature; it is definitely an energy-saving exhaust fan.

Features

  • Noise level: 0.7 sones
  • CFM: 110
  • Combination of a fan, heater, and light source
  • Stainless steel exterior
  • Warranty: 3 years (limited)
  • Electrical insulation for improved safety
  • Energy Star, ASHRAE, and Washington VIAQ certified

Pros

  • Bears a long-lasting and rustproof galvanized steel casing.
  • Saves energy despite the existence of multiple features.
  • Dual night lights that can be individually connected to a switch.
  • It is quiet compared to other fans in its category, with a noise of only 0.7 sones.
  • You can use it as a heater as well.
  • It is durable because of its built-in condenser motor that’s adequately protected.
  • Easy to install.

Cons

  • It is a ceiling-mounted fan; hence, cleaning it will need a lot of care to prevent damage.
  • When faulty, it can be expensive to repair.

The Panasonic WhisperWarm ceiling-mounted fan is especially suitable for older houses with bathrooms that need to be heated. Its room-warming capability brings quick comfort every time you need to use the bathroom at night. It is quieter, warmer, and easier to install than other bathroom exhaust fans in its category. However, it is a little costly though designed to last almost forever.

2. Delta Breez SLM70 Slim 70 CFM Exhaust Fan

Delta Breez SLM70 Slim

Delta is a well-respected brand in the ventilation industry. It is the largest provider of brushless fans and switching power supplies in the world. With over 40 years of experience in producing products that are well-rated by consumers, the Delta group sure deserves its excellent reputation in the industry.

The Delta Breez SLM70 Slim 70 CFM Exhaust Fan is a high-quality product from this manufacturer. It offers a variety of amazing features, moving air at a speed of 70 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), which allows for proper ventilation. It is also quiet with a noise of only 2 sones.

The beautiful thing about this Delta exhaust fan is its energy-saving feature. It is both Energy Star certified and ASHRAE compliant, which means you won’t have to worry about your electric bill going up with an energy savings of up to 85%. Its UL is listed for dual functions, too, both as a ceiling fan and a wall fan, so you have the option to choose either one.

The Delta Breez SLM70 has a brushless motor design that ensures durability, while its galvanized steel construction prevents corrosion. It has a modern grille design, too, making your bathroom look nice and classy.

Features

  • Alloy steel construction
  • A slim profile
  • EPA-certified
  • Noise-level: 2.0 sones
  • Indicator light
  • DC brushless motor
  • Warranty: 3 years (limited)

Pros

  • Certified as an energy saver.
  • It is affordable given all its features.
  • Runs quietly.
  • Guaranteed to run for 8 years.
  • Corrosion-resistant exterior.
  • Indicates when it is on.
  • Rust Proof exterior.
  • It is not hard to install.
  • Positively recommended by many previous buyers.

Cons

  • Might not be effective for large bathrooms.
  • There is no night light feature.
  • Instructions for installation can be confusing.

The Delta Breez SLM70 Slim 70 CFM Exhaust Fan is best for those who are looking for a bathroom exhaust fan that’s inexpensive but high quality. It is noiseless, durable, and energy saver. It can be installed on the wall or ceiling. Here is the best part; it is positively rated by previous buyers.

3. KAZE APPLIANCE SE90TL2 Ultra Quiet 90-CFM 0.3 Sones Bathroom Exhaust fan

KAZE APPLIANCE SE90TL2 Ultra Quiet

The name KAZE (pronounced “Kah-zay”) is a Japanese word meaning “wind,” and this company does an excellent job of manufacturing products that move air. The KAZE Appliance SE90TL2 Ultra Quiet 90-CFM 0.3 Sone Bathroom Exhaust fan, for example, is a highly-rated exhaust fan that combines ventilation and overhead lighting.

The fan includes an 11-watt LED light, and a 2-watt LED nightlight that’s expected to work for 30,000 hours, a very long time of giving you the soft light you need when you have to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. The fan’s components are high quality as well, ensuring durability and efficiency, and the motor is permanently lubricated, ensuring a continuous hitch-free operation.

This model is extremely quiet, too, as it operates at a noise level of only 0.3 sones while moving air at 90 CFM. The dual duct size offers both 4″ and 6″ round standard dimensions. Inbuilt hamper technology is available to prevent backdraft. KAZE did a fantastic job with the energy-saving capacity as it only consumes 120V of electricity. To top it all, it incorporates double hanger mounting bars for ease of installation.

Features

  • Noise level: 0.3 sones
  • Material: painted galvanized steel
  • 11 watt LED light and night LED light (2 watts)
  • Double hanger mounting bars
  • Energy star rating
  • Warranty: 3 years (limited)
  • Bathroom size: up to 90 square feet

Pros

  • Easy to install.
  • Equipped with light bulbs for night use.
  • Rated as energy efficient.
  • well built and runs quietly.
  • sufficient in clearing out moisture and odor.
  • Good quality, lubricated motor.
  • Affordable price point.

Cons

  • It is not suitable for large bathrooms.
  • The light feature sometimes doesn’t work properly, and the light is too dim.
  • The installation instructions may be brief for some people.

If you are looking for a quiet bathroom exhaust fan with light, and enduring durability, then KAZE Appliance SE90TL2 Ultra Quiet Bathroom Exhaust Fan would be best for you.

The fan provides proper ventilation for any bathroom as well as overhead lighting for those middle of the night trips to the bathroom. It is Energy Star qualified, too, which means it will not increase your electric bills. The manufacturer provides a 3-year warranty for parts.

4. BV Ultra-Quiet 90 CFM, 0.8 Sone Bathroom Ventilation, and Exhaust Fan

BV Ultra-Quiet Exhaust Fan

BV USA provides a range of bathroom and kitchen ventilation products that are highly rated in the market. This particular bathroom exhaust fan, the BV Ultra-Quiet 90 CFM, 0.8 Sone, is a good representation of the company’s commitment to quality.

This BV exhaust fan moves air at a rate of 90 CFM and does this so quietly at 0.8 sones that you’d barely know it’s working. The fan’s housing is a galvanized stainless steel jacket, reducing corrosion and making it very durable. It is Energy Star certified, which means it is an energy saver, consuming only 120V of electricity.

It has a long-lasting, heavy-duty motor, too, ensuring years of continuous service. The grille design is classy and fits into any bathroom. Most importantly, it is easy to install.

Features

  • Noise level: 0.8 sones
  • Material: stainless steel
  • Warranty: one-year limited
  • HVI certified
  • Bathroom space: up to 150 sqft
  • Heavy-duty motor (thermally protected)

Pros

  • The fan is easy to install.
  • It saves energy, using the only 120V.
  • Long-lasting motor.
  • Able to move large volumes of air effectively.
  • Super quiet performance.
  • The stainless steel body protects it from corrosion.
  • UL and HVI certified.
  • It has a 1-year limited product warranty.

Cons

  • It is not suitable for large bathrooms.
  • There is no night light provided.
  • The grille doesn’t seal properly on the ceiling.

If you are looking for the best bathroom fan with zero chances of faulty parts, the BV Ultra-Quiet 90 CFM, 0.8 Sone Bathroom Exhaust Fan is the right choice. It is a well-made product with durable housing, heavy-duty motor, and super quiet performance.

5. Panasonic FV-08WQ1 WhisperWall 70 CFM Wall Mounted Fan

Panasonic FV-08WQ1 WhisperWall

Panasonic is a brand well-known for its high-quality products. It is leading in the market for bathroom exhaust fans. Like all its Whisper models, the Panasonic FV-08WQ1 WhisperWall 70 CFM Wall Mounted Fan is also another high-quality product that’s designed mostly for through-the-wall mounting where a ceiling-mounted fan is not possible.

This wall-mounted bathroom fan has an exterior flap with a backdraft damper that does not allow cold air to flow from outside. Its condenser motor is enclosed, protecting it to ensure years of dependable service. It has a double suction blower wheel that moves air quietly at 70 CFM, with a noise level of only 0.8 sones.

The housing of the Panasonic FV-08WQ1 WhisperWall is made of heavy-duty zinc galvanized steel, protecting it from corrosion. It also comes with a 3-year parts warranty, which allows you to get optimum value for your money.

Features

  • Blower wheel
  • Noise level
  • Through-the-wall mounting style
  • Capacitor motor
  • Thermal cut-off device

Pros

  • Well lubricated motor that needs very little maintenance.
  • Comes with a thermal cut-off fuse to prevent overheating.
  • Heavy-duty galvanized steel that ensures durability.
  • Energy Star qualified appliance that uses less energy.
  • It’s easy to install.
  • Extremely quiet.
  • Comes with a damper that prevents cold air from getting back into your bathroom from outside.
  • 3-year warranty for all parts.

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a nightlight.
  • It is a bit pricey compared to other models.
  • The backdraft flapper outside can be easily opened by strong winds, letting air back into the bathroom.

If you need an exhaust fan in the bathroom but can’t put one on your ceiling, get the through-the-wall mounted Panasonic FV-08WQ1 WhisperWall 70 CFM. As a Panasonic product, its high-quality components are guaranteed to provide years of satisfactory service.

6. Delta Breez GreenBuilder GBR80HLED 80 CFM Exhaust Bath Fan

Delta Breez GreenBuilder GBR80HLED

Another amazing product in Delta’s Breez series is the Delta Breez GreenBuilder GBR80HLED 80 CFM Exhaust Bath Fan. It has an increased airflow capacity of 80 CFM that will efficiently ventilate your bathroom. It works noiselessly too, at a noise level of only 0.8 sones, so you won’t even notice it working. This model is also an energy saver, saving up to 86% and bears both Energy Star and ASHRAE compliant certificates.

It incorporates a dimmable LED light, which means you can decide how bright or dim the light should be when you need to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. Its humidity detector will only power on when there is moisture, otherwise, it will not and this keeps your electricity bills lower.

The brushless motor design of this Delta Breez model is durable, compact, and lightweight for easy installation.

Features

  • 11-watt LED light
  • Noise level: 0.8 sones
  • 60-watt main light
  • DC brushless motor
  • Fan impeller
  • Bathroom space: 80 sqft
  • Humidity sensor
  • Warranty: 3 years (limited)

Pros

  • Saves up to 86% energy compared to other competing models.
  • It operates very quietly at only 0.8 sones.
  • Equipped with a DC brushless motor for extended reliability.
  • Compliant with Energy Star and ASHRAE demands.
  • Comes with dimmable, energy-efficient LED light.
  • Galvanized steel construction heightens its durability.
  • It’s easy to install.

Cons

  • It is not recommended for retrofit installation.
  • The bulb burns out quickly.
  • Lackluster humidity sensor.

Delta Breez GreenBuilder GBR80HLED 80 CFM Exhaust Bath Fan is one of the best small bathroom fans that offer reliable quiet performance. With extra LED and night light, and a durable outer shell, this is an investment that is going to be worth your hard-earned bucks.

7. Broan QTX110HL Ultra Silent Series Bath Fan

Broan QTX110HL Ultra Bath Fan

Like Panasonic and Delta, Broan is also a respected and leading manufacturer of residential ventilation products. The Broan QTX110HL Ultra Silent Series Bath Fan with Heater and Light is perfect for homes with no central heating. This fan keeps your bathroom ventilated, well lit for night sessions, and optimally heated as well.

This BROAN QT Series model operates noiselessly at 0.9 sones, which is impressive given it moves air at 110 CFM. The lights operate at 120 watts and 7-watt while the heater runs at 1500 watts.

The fan’s galvanized steel housing means it is durable and can last for years without catching rust. Its white polymeric grille, on the other hand, looks stylish and would fit any bathroom decor.

Broan QTX110HL fan is also easy to install and has a 6-in duct diameter that fits a 2 x 8-inch ceiling construction. To top it all off, it includes a 1-year limited warranty.

Features

  • Material: galvanized steel
  • Noise level: 0.9 sones
  • HVI certified
  • Fan and heater
  • 2-60 watts and 1-7 watts incandescent lights
  • Warranty: 1 year limited

Pros

  • It provides lighting (bulbs sold separately) as well as a nightlight.
  • Can operate independently as either light, fan, or heater.
  • Ultra-silent performance.
  • Works efficiently in both small and average size bathrooms.
  • The grille design looks nice and classy.
  • Easy to install.
  • Can be used as a bathroom heating source.

Cons

  • It can’t fit into a standard 3″ duct.
  • The heating element is not very durable.
  • Might not work well for bigger bathrooms.

When you want a bathroom exhaust fan that also has a nightlight and heater, the Broan QTX110HL Ultra Silent Series Bath Fan with Heater and Light would definitely fit the bill. It’s durable and operates quietly, making even middle-of-the-night visits to your bathroom comfortable.

8. Delta BreezGreenBuilder GBR100 100CFM Exhaust Bath Fan

Delta BreezGreenBuilder GBR100

Clearly not the quietest compared to the other two Delta Breez models, however, it is the most recommended by many people. Both on Amazon and other platforms, Delta BreezGreenBuilder GBR100 has thousands of good ratings. This is usually a good sign for any product bought online.

This small bathroom fan has an increased airflow capacity of 100 CFM, making ventilation a breeze. It is Energy Star, and HVI certified so you don’t need to worry about your monthly energy bill becoming unmanageable. In fact, this fan saves up to 74% of energy compared to other similar competing brands.

The Delta BreezGreenBuilder GBR100’s innovation combines style, quality, and power with a noise rating of only 1.4 sones. This is a little high compared to its siblings though not high enough to be of concern. The galvanized steel housing and its dependable DC brushless motor are durable thus ensuring you get years of uninterrupted service.

But that’s not all. This fan has an indicator light, to show you that it is working even if you can’t hear it. It is UL listed for dual purposes; you can use it either as a ceiling fan or a wall-mounted fan. Lastly, it is easy to install thanks to the compact size.

Features

  • Noise level: 1.4 sones
  • Indicator light
  • ENERGY Star and HVI rating
  • DC brushless motor
  • Material: galvanized steel construction
  • 100 CFM
  • Power consumption: 12.6 watts
  • Warranty: 3 years limited

Pros

  • Saves up to 74% energy compared to other same level Delta Models.
  • Precision engineered brushless motor for reliable performance.
  • Fairly quiet performance (though not as silent as Panasonic models).
  • It can be mounted on either wall or ceiling.
  • Easy installation.
  • Amazing price point.
  • Includes an indicator light that shows the kit is operational.

Cons

  • Runs well but you get a pretty basic fan without any bells and whistles.

Delta BreezGreenBuilder GBR100 100 CFM Ventilation Fan is a people’s favorite on most online platforms. The fact that it has better ratings promises a lot. It is definitely worth checking out.

9. Broan SPK110 110-CFM 1.0-Sones Sensonic Speaker Fan

Broan SPK110 Speaker Fan

If you like listening to music while taking a shower, you don’t need to bring your Bluetooth speakers and mobile phone to the bathroom and risk getting them wet. Just get the Broan SPK110 110 CFM Sensonic Speaker Fan, and you get a bathroom exhaust fan and speaker in one.

Enclosed in a 26-Gauge, galvanized steel construction, this ventilating fan/speaker is definitely durable. Its dual high-fidelity sensonic speakers give you the best audio quality to boost your mood in readiness for the day. The fan is Energy Star-rated, HVI-certified, and UL-listed. It is a quiet operator with a noise level of only 1.0 sones. It can be used over your bathtub or shower when installed with a GFCI protected branch circuit. And when it’s too dark, you can take advantage of the lights it comes with.

Broan SPK110 fan is very fast when it comes to taking out moist air and odors. Its airflow capacity is at 110 CFM, which is pretty high. The motor is engineered for constant operation, and it only consumes 43.6W of power and 110V of electricity regardless of all its features. Installation might be a bit challenging as the fan is bigger than usual. The installation manual is clear enough for most users, though.

Features

  • Fan combo with Bluetooth speaker (high-fidelity)
  • CFM: 110
  • Noise level: 1.0 sones
  • Thermal insulation
  • Bathroom space: up to 105 sqft
  • Energy Star rated
  • Warranty: 1 year

Pros

  • Reliable motor performance.
  • Easy installation.
  • An energy-saving model.
  • Bluetooth range is superb and can connect from a considerable distance.
  • The speakers are powerful and loud enough.
  • An extremely quiet fan that doesn’t overshadow the speaker sound.
  • Comes with optional hangers and light bulbs that are bought separately.

Cons

  • The fan must be on for the speaker to work.
  • There’s still some work involved during the installation process.

The Broan SPK110 110 CFM Sensonic Speaker Fan is the best exhaust fan that plays music and provides sufficient ventilation that efficiently and quickly clears humidity and odors. It is a favorite among music lovers. Crazy thing, it doesn’t cost as a lot as you are imagining.

10. Panasonic FV-15VQL6 WhisperLite Bathroom Ventilation Fan

Panasonic FV-15VQL6 WhisperLite

The Panasonic WhisperLite comes in a galvanized steel casing that withstands tough conditions for many years. Its ventilation speed is superb with an airflow capacity of 150 CFM. It is easy to install, flexible, and just like any other unit in the Panasonic Whisper series, it is quiet with a noise level of only 1.0 sones.

WhisperLite fits into a 2’’ x 8’’ ceiling and has a double hanger bar system that is expandable up to 24 inches. It includes two 13W CFLs with current limiting devices and a night lamp. There’s a built-in damper that keeps the cold air out, prevents backdraft, and protects the thermal fuse. The condenser can continuously operate for 30,000 hours.

This Panasonic exhaust fan is Energy Star-rated for better energy use. On top of that, it meets the ventilation standard required by LEED for Homes, CA Title 24, and other green building standards. Lastly, you get a 3-year limited warranty.

Features

  • Material: galvanized steel
  • Noise level: 1.0 sones
  • Night-light feature
  • ASHRAE, Energy Star, and Leed certified
  • CFM: 150
  • Warranty: 3 years limited

Pros

  • Comes with a hanger system that makes it flexible and easy to install.
  • Convenient night-light feature.
  • Supremely quiet for a unit that operates at 150 CFM.
  • Cuts down on energy bills.
  • Compliant with many regulatory demands.
  • Corrosion-resistant exterior.
  • It has a 3-year warranty.

Cons

  • A bit pricey.
  • It is bigger than a regular fan and heavier. Therefore, it won’t be easy to replace with a smaller one.

The Panasonic FV-15VQL6 WhisperLite ventilating fan is a powerful bathroom exhaust fan that meets and exceeds several compliant standards. It is quiet, energy-efficient, easy to install, and is highly rated by past and present users.

11. Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling 290 CFM Ceiling Mounted Fan

Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling

If you have a big bathroom (or an always busy one), and you need a mighty fan that remains relatively quiet, the Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling 290 CFM is an excellent choice.

Encased in white-painted steel, it is an Energy Star-certified product that is amazing too light (4 pounds) and too quiet for its powerful functionality. It comes with a properly enclosed condenser and extra-large suction sirocco blower wheel for durability. It saves energy and moves a vast quantity of air, humidity, and odor in a short time with an airflow capacity of 290 CFM.

The Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling package includes mounting brackets that make it easy to install, too. And despite its quality being exceptional, you still get a limited 3-year warranty in case of anything.

Features

  • Code compliant and Energy Star certified
  • CFM: 290
  • Noise level: 2.0 sones
  • Galvanized steel body
  • Double hanger-bar system
  • Warranty: 3 years limited
  • Enclosed condenser motor

Pros

  • Designed to be easy to install.
  • Powerful but still energy efficient.
  • It operates so quietly; you won’t even know it’s there.
  • Comes with a slightly bigger CFM number for use in average to big bathrooms.
  • A generous 3-year warranty.
  • Properly coated for durability.

Cons

  • Does cost a bit more than ordinary Panasonic types.
  • You don’t get the mounting hardware which makes installation a bit harder.
  • It is quite big and will need some adjustments to your ceiling to fit in properly.

For a big bathroom or a very busy one, you would need a ventilating fan that moves air quickly, efficiently, and quietly. The Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling 290 CFM Ceiling Mounted Fan checks all these boxes.

12. VES 24″ Exhaust Shutter Fan

VES 24″ Exhaust Shutter Fan

Unlike all the bathroom fans reviewed, this last one is a little unique. VES 24″ Exhaust Shutter Fan is not meant to be used for bathrooms, but rather, for factories, warehouses, garages, attics, and even restaurants. Its high airflow capacity of 5850 CFM can remove condensation, obnoxious fumes, and excessive heat very quickly from indoor spaces.

This industrial grade exhaust fan has a shutter made of aluminum to ensure resistance to corrosion. Its airflow capacity can be adjusted in three speeds through a built-in speed control switch. It can function for over 10,000 hours and 12 years of constant use.

The VES 24″ Exhaust Shutter Fan weighs 32 pounds and comes with easy to use features like a9″ cord that allows you to plug it into a switch. The motor is insulated, CSA-US approved and completely enclosed with Rotors balanced to reduce noise. It does not require maintenance and is OSHA-compliant. And the better part is, it is usually delivered assembled already, so you don’t have to worry about assembly.

Features

  • Material: rustproof aluminum
  • Industrial-grade shutter fan
  • CSA/CSA-US approved motor
  • CFM: 5850
  • Arrives fully assembled
  • For use in the attic, garage, chicken coop, and greenhouse shop
  • Warranty: 2 years on motor and 1 on other parts

Pros

  • Doesn’t need much assembly work.
  • Remarkably faster performance.
  • Corrosion-resistant.
  • Built-in speed switch for speed regulation.
  • Very easy to clean.
  • Ideal for commercial places.
  • Still inexpensive given its commercial-grade performance.

Cons

  • Pretty noisy when functioning at high speeds.
  • A little heavy and should be placed on a platform that can support its weight.

This industrial grade exhaust fan is an excellent choice for large rooms. The VES 24″ Exhaust Shutter Fan would do best in restaurants, agricultural factories, garages, cryptocurrency mining, and other fairly huge commercial spaces.

Editor’s note

We have reviewed so many Panasonic options because so far, they are the quietest. This guarantees reliable performance that doesn’t strain the motor leading to lower maintenance costs. This Panasonic fan demonstration video shows just how silent they can be.

Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans Buying Guide

A bathroom exhaust fan is essential if you want to keep the molds and mildew out of your bathroom or any enclosed space. There are several brands and models of exhaust fans in the market today, so it can be confusing if you are shopping for one. When choosing what’s best for your bathroom, consider the following features.

Airflow Capacity

Airflow capacity aka CFM (cubic feet per minute) refers to the amount of air a fan can circulate. The bigger the CFM value, the faster the rate of air circulation.

However, consider the size of your bathroom and the moisture level before you pick a product. Exhaust fans best for most bathrooms have an airflow capacity ranging from 80 to 210 CFM. The larger your bathroom, the bigger the capacity you should pick.

Here is a good rule of thumb; 1 CFM = 1ft2. So basically, small bathrooms require 50 CFM fans and average size bathrooms need a unit with 100 CFM. For large bathrooms with over 100 ft2, you would need to add together 50 CFM for a toilet, 50 for a bathtub, 50 for a shower, and 100 CFM for a Jacuzzi.

So basically, if your shower has a toilet and Jacuzzi, that would need a kit with a minimum of 150 CFM. If you have a toilet, shower, bathtub, and Jacuzzi, then your fun should have a minimum of 250 CFM.

Note: A fan can have a bigger CFM and operate at a lower value because of the static resistance created by the duct diameter, length, and the number of elbows (bends). So when in doubt, go for a kit with a slightly bigger CFM.

Noise Level

Another factor to consider is the noise level. You would not be comfortable if your bathroom fan is too noisy. Most bathroom fans have noise ranges that are below 1.0 sones. The ideal range for a quiet bathroom would be between 0.3 to 2.0 sones.

Now, here is something no one is talking about; two different bathroom models with the same sone values doesn’t necessarily mean they produce the same sound. A good example is Delta Breez 80 CFM (0.8 sones) and Panasonic 100 CFM (0.8 sones). So even though the latter model has many revolutions that might make it noisy, it is silent compared to the former.

This bathroom fan sounds video can help you realize why Panasonic is the gold standard when it comes to the best bathroom exhaust fans. And this is exactly why we have covered quite a lot of them.

Power Saving Bulbs and Night Lights

When you want to use the bathroom in the middle of the night, the last thing you want to do is turn on the light. A night light, therefore, is essential. However, choose bulbs that save energy. You don’t want to increase your electric bill just because you installed a new bathroom fan. Most of the regular wattage for the bulb lies within 18 to 20W.

Heater

Not all bathroom fans have a heating function. It can be handy if you are living in a cold country or if you have an older house that doesn’t have heated bathrooms. It can mean the difference between a cozy bathroom experience and a miserable one.

Color and Design

Everyone loves a bit of class and style, so when choosing a bathroom fan, you should choose one with a color and style that blends with your bathroom design and decor. You don’t want your fan to be the odd one out. While selecting a style, make sure it’s quality too.

Cross Ventilation

The whole idea of going for the best exhaust fan for the bathroom is to keep it adequately ventilated and free of moisture. So you should get yourself products that will allow for proper cross ventilation. Some fans have dampers that keep the cold air out, whereas others have a system that opens up to the outside, letting air circulate inside.

Advanced features

We are living in a world where everything is smart. Therefore, an ideal bathroom exhaust fan should come with a humidity sensor that turns the fan into action on its own. A motion sensor that switches on the lights or the fan itself can save you the hassle of reaching for the wall switches.

These are the features that collectively help you in choosing the best exhaust fans for your bathroom. Take everything into consideration and see if the fan you are looking at will be a good fit for your bathroom.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. How long should your bathroom exhaust fan be left to run?

A. HVI recommends that 20 minutes is the time required for the fan to clear all the humid air and to ensure that water droplets do not form on the surface of the fan.

Q. What airflow capacity do you need for your bathroom?

A. Airflow capacity is measured in CFM. Ventilation rates of 8 air cycles per hour are usually recommended. To ensure that you have the ideal fan for your bathroom, you have to take the dimensions of the room and multiply. For instance, a 10’’ by 7’’ room will require a 70 CFM fan.

Q. Can an exhaust fan be placed over a shower?

A. Yes, as long as it is a UL-listed fan with a GFCI circuit that allows it to be installed over the shower or the bathtub.

Q. How important is a bathroom fan?

A. A bathroom fan is necessary for the removal of moisture and bad odor from your bathroom. It also helps to keep you healthy as it takes away toxic fumes and bad odors that could cause one disease or another.

Q. Should all bathrooms have an exhaust fan?

A. If the bathroom has an operable window, there is no need for an exhaust fan.

Conclusion

The importance of bathroom exhaust fans cannot be overemphasized. These fans improve air quality inside the bathrooms as moist air, and unpleasant odors are quickly and efficiently moved out. This means the quality of your walls, décor, and other fixtures will remain in tip-top condition for longer.

This article is meant to guide you on all the best bathroom exhaust fans in the market today. The fans listed here have been rated highly by previous users on many review websites. Take the first step towards a cleaner and healthier bathroom by getting one of these fans to eliminate all humidity, moisture, and unpleasant odors.

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