Electrician Training Electrical Certification wiring recessed light fixtures Electrical Wiring Electrical Troubleshooting and Electrical Repairs wire outdoor light fixture Home Electrical Wiring Diagrams

wiring home generator and transfer switch wiring a 220 volt range cord outlet Wiring for GFCI Outlets Wiring Outlets and a Switched Outlet Wiring and Installing Ceiling Fans and Remote Controls wire dimmer switch wiring diagrams for switches wiring a dryer cord and 220 outlet circuit breaker panel
Electrical Wire and Cable
ask the electrician
Electrician Training Electrical Certification wiring recessed light fixtures Electrical Wiring Electrical Troubleshooting and Electrical Repairs wire outdoor light fixture Home Electrical Wiring Diagrams
wiring home generator and transfer switch wiring a 220 volt range cord outlet Wiring for GFCI Outlets Wiring Outlets and a Switched Outlet How to Installing and Wire Ceiling Fans and Remote Controls wire dimmer switch wiring diagrams for switches wiring a dryer cord and 220 outlet circuit breaker panel
Electrical Wire and Cable

How to Install a Bathroom Exhaust Fan

install-bath-exhaust-fan Summary: How to install the venting duct system for a bathroom exhaust fan to make sure humidity and condensation are properly exhausted outdoors.


Check Out What Others Are Sharing at Ask the Electrician:
Very user-friendly, Thanks. Terry from Mount dora, Florida

Installing Bathroom Exhaust Fans


Electrical Wiring Video

How to Wire a GFCI Outlet without a Ground Wire

NOTE: A List of All my Helpful Videos

Will Display at the End of This Video

So Keep Watching So I Can Help You Wire it Right!


Check out my YouTube Channel:
» AskTheElectrician «
and Subscribe!



Most bathroom fans have keyhole slots and alignment tabs to help with the installation, taking the guesswork out of proper mounting.

The venting is very important. Elbows, turns, long ducts and ductwork smaller than the fan's exit outlet will reduce performance.

When you use wide aluminum foil or duct tape to join smooth metal ductwork seams you will avoid air leaks. This makes sure any moisture is completely exhausted out of the bathroom.


A Fully Functional Bathroom Exhaust Fan Installation

Exhaust Fan Installation


REMEMBER: Safety FIRST - Never Work On Energized Wires!

Installing a Bathroom Fan


Tips for Installing a Bathroom Fan:

  • When you install a bathroom fan do not let flexible ductwork sag because this will reduce air flow.
  • During the bathroom fan installation, position the bath fan outlet in the direction of the home's exit point. This will minimize duct turns.
  • Before adding an elbow or bend, allow 24" to 36" of straight run from the fan outlet point.
  • Duct-wrap insulation (R-5 or above) will help minimize condensation in cold climates, especially on long duct runs.
  • Exit vents should have back draft flaps to help keep cold air from entering duct.



See the Complete Project: Install a Bathroom Fan


Frequently Asked Questions About Ventilation Fans:

What is a Sone, and how is it measured?

A Sone is a measurement of sound in terms of comfortable hearing level for an average listener.The lower the sone value, the more comfortable the listening environment. Sones are not decibels or volume, but rather how sound is “sensed.” One sone is the equivalent of a quiet refrigerator.

What does CFM mean?

CFM is the acronym for Cubic Feet per Minute — the measure of air volume moved by the fan blower. Choose a fan with a CFM rating appropriate for your room size to ensure adequate ventilation.

What is continuous ventilation?

Continuous ventilation provides today’s airtight homes with a relatively constant and controlled lower level of ventilation. NuTone’s extremely quiet and efficient QT Series is ideally suited for these applications.

<top>

Can I mount NuTone fans above my tub and shower?

Most NuTone fans are rated for use over a shower or bathtub with a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter).

Can my ceiling fan be surrounded by insulation?

Yes. NuTone bath fans are designed to provide adequate cooling for motors and lighting, as well as products with integral heaters.

Will NuTone Fans work in wall-mount applications?

Some NuTone bath and utility fans may be wall mounted. See the spec matrix for specific models. Improper installation may affect fan life, safety and your warranty.

<top>

Will a ceiling fan or wall-mount utility fan serve as a range hood?

No. Range hoods are specifically designed to handle grease and high temperature environments. Ventilation provided by NuTone fans is only a supplement for odor and moisture removal in the kitchen.

What does “static pressure” mean?

Static pressure is the measurement of airflow resistance as it is pushed through ductwork which reduces the effectiveness of the fan.

How long should a bath fan run after a shower is used?

The Home Ventilation Institute recommends that a fan should be left on for 20 minutes more to clear humidity adequately and to ensure moisture and condensation in the fan body or ducting is minimized.

What should I do if I can’t wait for moisture to clear, but I don’t want a fan to run all day long.

NuTone has sensing fans that detect the humidity rise caused by a shower and turn on automatically – when moisture has cleared it turns off. Some wall controls also give you the option of humidity sensing, or timer control. Just set it and forget it.

<top>

Where should the exhaust fan be located?

Exhaust fans should be located in or near the shower or tub, and in an enclosed water closet. Keep exhaust points opposite the supply air source to ensure that the fresh air is drawn through the room. Bathroom doors should not be sealed too tightly at the bottom in order to allow “makeup air” to enter the room when the door is closed.

Where is the exhaust outlet on the ventilation fan?

The exhaust outlet is the point where air is discharged through the body of the fan housing into the ductwork. During installation, orient your fan with the exhaust outlet pointing toward the exit vent on your roof or wall to minimize turns in ductwork that impede airflow.

<top>

Why do the windows and mirrors fog even when the fan is running?

If windows and mirrors are very cold, condensation can still form on these surfaces. And if your bathroom is sealed tightly, replacement air may not be entering the room fast enough to displace the moist air. Be sure to undercut your door sufficiently to draw fresh air into the room. Fan placement can also be a factor.Your fan should be located far from the replacement air source to ensure the moist air is drawn out first. Finally, too many twists and turns in the ducting will significantly reduce the ability of the blower to remove moist air. Make sure your ductwork is as short and straight as it can be, with gradual turns rather than tight corners where necessary.

Why is water dripping from the grille of the fan?

Dripping water is either condensation (usually due to cold ductwork or improper duct installation), or a problem with the seal on a wall or roof vent. Insulated ductwork can help solve condensation problems, and running the fan longer will ensure moisture is completely removed from the duct. Ductwork should slope down toward a wall vent to direct condensation out of the exterior vent opening rather than back into the fan housing.

Can I install a heater over the bathtub or in a shower?

No. Heaters are not UL Listed (Underwriter’s Laboratory) for installation over a bathtub or in a shower.

<top>

Can I use an inline or multi-port fan in one large bathroom?

Yes, this works the best for large rooms because you can install the ports over the areas where the ventilation is needed the most (source control).The size of the multi-port would be determined by the size of the room.

Does a duct-free bath fan expel air?

No. A duct-free fan is not a ventilating device. It does not remove air from the room.

Can I use a smaller diameter duct than what the fan is designed for?

This is not recommended. It will cause the fan to run harder, greatly reducing the CFM performance of the fan and create excess noise.

<top>

Can larger diameter ducting be used with my bath fan?

Yes, larger diameters will result in improved performance.

What type of duct is recommended, rigid or flexible?

It is recommended, where possible, to use rigid duct. It has less resistance to air flow and allows the fan to operate much more efficiently. If flexible duct is used, be sure the duct is as straight as possible.

Can I exhaust my fan into my attic instead of out the roof or wall?

Never exhaust air into spaces within walls, ceilings, attics, crawl spaces or garages.The humidity may damage the structure and insulation.

What type of exhaust fan is best for a sauna or hot tub area?

High CFM-rated devices are normally recommended for this type of application.

Can I use a fan in a steam shower?

No. Since these are normally sealed chambers, a vacuum will be created.

Can I vent more than one bath fan out of a roof or wall cap?

No. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended ventilation requirements.

Resources for Wiring a Bathroom Exhaust Fan

Here is the Detailed Installation Manual for Nutone 110 CFM Exhaust Fan [PDF]


More About Wiring a Bathroom Exhaust Fan


  • Control Switch Wiring for a In-Line Exhaust Fan

  • How to Wire a Switch for an Inline Exhaust Fan – Each pair of wires will act as a switch to control one side of the low voltage power. The low voltage relay is located near the in-line exhaust fan where it will act as a switch for the 120 volt power for the in-line exhaust fan.
  • Switching a Bathroom Fan and Light Separately

  • How to Wire Your Bathroom so the Lights and Fan are on Separate Switches – The key factor is to understand where the power source enters the circuit – The power source will either enter at the switch box or up at the light fixture or the exhaust fan.
  • Electrical Wiring for a Bath Exhaust Fan

  • How to Install Bathroom Exhaust Fan Electrical Wiring – Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Bathroom Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
  • Bathroom Exhaust Fan and Light Electrical Wiring

  • How to Wire a Switch for Bath Exhaust Fan and Light – You will be using multiple switches for individual functions. Each function requires the appropriate wire color.

Questions About Wiring a Bathroom Exhaust Fan


Questions about Wiring an Exhaust Fan


Question from Edward, a Homeowner in Dalton, Georgia:
How do I Wire the Switches for an Exhaust Fan?

I had a exhaust fan with a heater and light wired in and also a recessed can light. The electrician installed a 3 gang box. There is one 12/2 wire in one box, two 12/2 wires in one box, and one 12/3 wire in the other box. I’m not sure how to install the switches and need help understanding how to properly install wires to switches.

Dave’s Answer:
Wiring an Exhaust Fan and Switches

A heated exhaust fan typically requires a dedicated electrical circuit, therefore the 12/2 power source cable will need to be identified, and then the wires that are required for the light, exhaust, and heater. The specific wiring connections at each switch and in the exhaust fan junction box will be fully described in the installation sheet which is provided with your specific make and model. Many features are available and may require wiring connections that are unique for specific brands and model types. You should also consult the electrician who installed the wiring as well.




  • How to Wire a Inline Exhaust Fan for Two Bathrooms

  • I purchased a Fantech inline exhaust fan, I want to wire separate switches in two bathrooms to control the same exhaust fan.


    • Why Is My Bathroom Light Fixture Not Working?

    • How Can I Fix a Bathroom Light Fixture and a Bath Exhaust Fan that Stopped Working? The Most Common Problems with Bathroom Light Fixtures and How You Can Fix Them.


      • Wiring a Bathroom Exhaust Fan and Switch

      • Do I need a neutral wire between switch boxes for the circuit wiring? How to Install a Bathroom Exhaust Fan and Electrical Wiring for Switches.


        • Electrical Wiring for a Bath Light Fan Combo

        • How do I wire the switches for my bath fan and light? How to Identify Electrical Wiring for Installing a Bath Fan Combo with a Light, Wiring Connections for a Bathroom Exhaust Fan.


          • Kitchen Exhaust Fan Wiring

          • How are the wires connected to a kitchen exhaust fan? How to wire a kitchen exhaust fan that is installed above the kitchen range or cook top stove.


            • Wiring For a New Exhaust Fan And Light Fixture

            • How to Wire a Bath Exhaust Fan and Light Fixture: You could junction in the exhaust fan junction box or a new junction box could be installed in an accessible location and separate out the switched wiring, one which will lead to the bathroom exhaust fan and the other that will lead to the recessed light fixture.




» You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! «

Here is How to Do It:
Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book

Great for any Home Wiring Project.


  electrical wiring  

Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

Perfect for Homeowners, Students,
Handyman, Handywomen, and Electricians
Includes:
Wiring GFCI Outlets
Wiring Home Electric Circuits
120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits
Wiring Light Switches
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring
Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.





Electrical Tips to Help You Wire it Right

The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!

The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.

The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!

The Plug-In Outlet Tester
This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.

Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!

The Wire Stripper and Wire Cutter
My absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets..

The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use.





RELATED


More about Bath Exhaust Fan

Why Is My Bathroom Light Fixture Not Working?
How Can I Fix a Bathroom Light Fixture and a Bath Exhaust Fan that Stopped Working? The Most Common Problems with Bathroom Light Fixtures and How You Can Fix Them.

Kitchen Exhaust Fan Wiring
How are the wires connected to a kitchen exhaust fan? How to wire a kitchen exhaust fan that is installed above the kitchen range or cook top stove.

Bathroom Light Switch Wiring Diagrams
Where do all the wires connect to a light switch? Electrical Wiring for a Bathroom Light Switch with Wiring Diagrams.

Wiring a Dedicated Circuit for Bathroom Outlets
Can the Bathroom GFCI Circuit be Used for Other Electric Outlets? Bathroom GFCI Outlets on a Dedicated Circuit.

Solution for Sparking Light Switches
Sparking Light Switches: Why You May See a Spark in Your Wall Switch and What to do About It.

Electrical Wiring for a Bath Exhaust Fan
How to Install Bathroom Exhaust Fan Electrical Wiring - Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Bathroom Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.

Bathroom Exhaust Fan and Light Electrical Wiring
How to Wire a Switch for Bath Exhaust Fan and Light: I have a new bathroom exhaust fan heater light to install in place of an old one and wire the switches.

Electrical Wiring for a Bath Light Fan Combo
How do I wire the switches for my bath fan and light? How to Identify Electrical Wiring for Installing a Bath Fan Combo with a Light, Wiring Connections for a Bathroom Exhaust Fan.

Bath Exhaust Fan - 1477