8 Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans of 2023 [Reviews + Guide]

Bathroom exhaust fans are an essential addition to any bathroom as they help eliminate moisture and bad odors, and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Without proper ventilation, your bathroom can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can have serious health implications.

Installing a high-quality bathroom exhaust fan can solve all of these problems, but with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose.

To help you make an informed decision, here are the top three factors to consider when choosing the best bathroom exhaust fan:

Airflow: The amount of air that a fan can move is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). For an average-sized bathroom, you will need a fan with at least 50 CFM. However, for larger bathrooms, you should aim for a fan with a higher CFM rating.

Noise level: A loud exhaust fan can be a major annoyance. Look for a fan with a low sone rating (less than 2.0) to ensure quiet operation.

Energy efficiency: An energy-efficient fan can help reduce your electricity bills while still providing adequate ventilation. Look for a fan with an Energy Star certification to ensure that it meets energy-efficient standards.

Now that you know the top factors to consider when choosing a bathroom exhaust fan, it’s time to start shopping! In this buying guide, we’ll showcase our top recommended bathroom exhaust fans that meet these criteria and more.

Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans

Here is the list of the 9 best bathroom exhaust fans to help you find the right one for your home.

1. BV Exhaust Fan

One of our top recommendations is the BV Exhaust Fan, and it has the necessary functions to back up all that it claims. It uses the latest technology to come up with a heavy-duty yet energy-saving fan. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, so read on to find out more.

When purchasing an exhaust fan, the first thing that you think about is noise emission. In that regard, the designers have been smart and made sure it delivers super-quiet performance, made possible by Silent-Clever Technology. It generates only 0.8-sone, which highlights the efficacy you’ll get. 

What’s more, it includes sufficient mounting capacity, thanks to the suitable dimensions of 9.25″ x 9.0″ to fill your bathroom with fresh air. When you mount it to the top, the 7.5″ height offers enough coverage to be reliable in a bathroom of 90 square feet.

Meanwhile, it comes with the necessary durability, thanks to the stainless-steel duct collar, to produce consistent performance. 

You’ll be pleased to note it has enough suction power, making it energy-efficient and saving money on power bills. This allows it to remove large volumes of air and is perfect for continuous usage to lower humidity quickly.

The instructions that accompany it aren’t the best, which is an inconvenience and means it will take longer to complete the setup. If you haven’t installed something similar in the past, you’ll need to get help to ensure that all the steps have been followed correctly. We feel BV could’ve easily avoided the complicated steps. 

Noise Level: 0.8 Sones | CFM: 90 | Coverage: 90Sqft | Wattage: 24W | With Light: No | Warranty: 1 Year

2. Delta Electronics

Delta Electronics is one of the most popular brands right now, so no wonder it’s making all the right noises in the market.

But you don’t have to worry about noise from the exhaust since it has the relevant features to deliver a comfortable experience. No surprise then that it’s turning quite a few heads among prospective buyers.

First and foremost, it includes Energy Star technology, which comprises a brushless DC motor. You get an incredibly quiet operation since it generates 0.4 sones making it one of the most competent units going around.

Apart from that, it comes with an LED that can run for 30,000 hours, three times more than an ordinary CFL bulb. 

You’ll be happy to see that it also includes a two-watt night light while the leading light has a power of 800 lumens or 2700K. Consequently, it’s very safe, and despite having sufficient strength, it doesn’t increase your power bill, which remains within reasonable limits for greater convenience. 

We noticed that its energy efficiency value is rated at 8.4 CFM to produce a consistent output and ensure that continuous use doesn’t cause performance issues. Furthermore, the green LED indicator proves a useful addition for letting you know the power status.

Like some of the other models, it’s plagued by similar issues with installation. We suggest you take your time and remain patient rather than rushing through the process. The steps are a little hard to follow, and while it’s an inconvenience, you can still get it done if you remember to be thorough. 

Noise Level: 0.4 Sones | CFM: 110 | Coverage: N/A | Wattage: 15.5W | With Light: Yes | Warranty: 3 Years

3. Broan-Nutone 9093WH Exhaust Fan

The Broan-Nutone 9093WH Exhaust Fan has many similarities with some other models, but it has also made the required upgrades to receive a positive response. It offers the perfect combination of durability with user-friendliness to top rival brands and has features not seen anywhere else.

So, we assure you won’t be disappointed.

Right at the outset, you’ll notice that it comes with a 1500-watt heating element, which highlights its incredible power. No surprises then, that the 70-CFM fan can cover a large bathroom of 100 square feet with aplomb.

Nonetheless, there’s no cause for concern as it keeps the noise emission to a minimum and generates barely 3.5-sone. 

Moreover, thanks to the LED, you get clean lighting in your room, but the significant addition is a heater. It includes an electronically balanced centrifugal blower wheel, thereby ensuring your room is evenly filled with heat.

Plus, you get exceptional control, thanks to the automatic reset thermal protection to handle various situations. 

It also comes with an easy installation, so you won’t have to wait long to freshen up the bathroom. You’ll be pleased to see that it includes all the components from hanger bars to mounting brackets that make the process easy for all users.

We’ve seen that it tends to leak light from the seam, which isn’t a significant problem and can be avoided by sealing the edges. Besides, it’s costlier than other units, which is a point of contention for prospective buyers. The price is one of the first things people see, and it may exceed your budget. 

Noise Level: 3.5 Sones | CFM: 70 | Coverage: 65Sqft | Wattage: 1500W | With Light: Yes | Warranty: 1 Year

4. Broan-NuTone 678 Exhaust Fan

The Broan-NuTone 678 Exhaust Fan has the most bases covered, and it has quickly climbed the charts to cement its place among the top products. With features like the lubricated motor and extensive coverage, you can expect nothing short of the best when using it.

Rest assured, you’ll get your money’s worth.

Straight off the bat, the exhaust fan coupled with the light helps to reduce moisture, which has several benefits. You won’t be troubled by a foul odor or mildew while it has sufficient energy to cover bathrooms having a maximum area of 45 square feet. 

The 100-watt light comes in handy to light up the area, and combined with the shatter-resistant diffusing lens, it’ll last a long time.

Further adding to the durability is the presence of polymeric duct connectors with tapered sleeves, ensuring you consistently get the best performance. Therefore, it provides adequate ducting while the plug-in lubricated motor makes work more manageable. 

Meanwhile, the model has a certain aesthetic appeal delivered by the white grille allowing you to use it with most interior decorations. We especially loved the attention to safety since it’s connected to a GFCI branch circuit, meaning you don’t have to worry about electrical outages.

For all that’s good, there are a couple of things that need to be improved. For instance, the damper doesn’t close all the way, causing concern, and Broan-NuTone should’ve looked into it. Other than that, the motor is difficult to remove, and you may need to call a professional. 

Noise Level: 2.5 Sones | CFM: 50 | Coverage: 45Sqft | Wattage: 100W | With Light: Yes | Warranty: 1 Year

5. Broan-NuTone LPN80

We’re at the halfway point of our list, but there are several quality units we’re yet to review. Next up, we’ve got the Broan-NuTone LPN80, which delivers reliable performance while energy efficiency makes it eco-friendly. There’s a lot more it has to offer, and the suitable dimensions make it a desirable acquisition.

If what you need is versatility, then you’ll love the range of functions on this model. While it has stuck to the basic design, the necessary tweaks ensure it can eliminate humidity, tobacco smoke, and cooking smell.

Likewise, you’ll breathe nothing but clean air, and the extensive coverage means it works well in rooms measuring 75 square feet. 

Please note that it delivers outstanding output since it operates on 80 CFM with a 4-inch duct. Now, using a 3-inch duct lowers the CFM rate to 70, and along with that, it produces 1.0 sone to reduce noise emission. Therefore, irrespective of the task, rest assured you’ll get a quiet performance. 

Furthermore, the installation procedure is easy, and the compactness permits you to install it between 2×4 studs. It’s ideally suited for most homes, and it has also received an ENERGY STAR qualification, which makes for an eco-friendly option.

We’ve received reports stating that it comes with poor instructions, which makes the installation process complicated.

Consequently, first-time users may have issues navigating through the steps, which affects user experience. All you can do is ask someone to assist you or call a professional to ensure the components are well-fitted. 

Noise Level: 1.0 Sones | CFM: 80 | Coverage: 75Sqft | Wattage: N/A | With Light: No | Warranty: 1 Year

6. KAZE APPLIANCE Exhaust Fan

If your primary concern is longevity, we suggest giving the KAZE APPLIANCE Exhaust Fan a try.

It has the necessary robustness and combined with the extended runtime; your bathroom will be nice and fresh in a quick time. Besides, it has all the components, so you won’t need to make any extra purchases.

For starters, it measures 11-3/8″ x 10-1/2″, making it a suitable fit for most homes, but if your previous housing is smaller, you’ll need to resize it. Like some of the other units, it comes with additional features to deliver an unmatched performance for which the LEDs prove useful.  

The dual LEDs have a color temperature of 2700K and come with a power of 11-watt and 2-watt, respectively. It’s sufficient to effectively cover your bathroom and provide a nice, clean appearance, which goes well with most decorations.

Apart from that, it has a nightlight, and you’ve got the option of individually wiring it to the wall switch or combining it with the fan. 

It includes all the installation components, like the double hanger mounting bar, along with a 6-inch duct adapter to form a tight fit. Therefore, you can use it for a long time, and the lights last as long as 30,000 hours.

A common complaint among users is that it’s quite noisy, and you’re likely to hear a clattering sound as long as it’s operational.

Although it has no problems with suctions, you might find the blades dripping with water, highlighting its inability to expel moisture completely. Hence, your bathroom is likely to be moisture-laden on occasion. 

Noise Level: 0.5 Sones | CFM: 150 | Coverage: 150Sqft | Wattage: N/A | With Light: Yes | Warranty: 3 Years

7. Tech Drive Exhaust Fan

The Tech Drive Exhaust Fan may look like a simple unit but don’t be fooled. It delivers a power-packed performance that keeps your bathroom fresh all day long. Meanwhile, it solves several other issues, which speak of the versatility on offer, thereby increasing popularity among people.

We start with one of the essential aspects of an exhaust fan, which is the noise decibel. It’s ultra-quiet and generates only 1.0 sone while providing substantial air movement of 110 CFM to produce excellent coverage.

So, you can use it in a bathroom measuring 110 square feet for consistent output without experiencing reliability issues. 

Furthermore, it comes with a 4-inch duct, which is well complemented by the 10.32″ x 10.32″ x 8.02″ housing. Therefore, you can mount it on the ceiling and no longer have to worry about moisture or odor of any kind entering the bathroom.

Plus, to fix it to the top, you can use the suspension brackets, which form a tight connection and conveniently bear the weight of the model. 

We must also mention the fantastic durability on offer because of the galvanized steel construction and the white grill cover. Finally, you can use it for a long time while the motor also delivers outstanding output for 25000 hours.

You’ll notice it comes with a flapper who has no real use, and you might as well take it out. Many users have done so and reportedly received better performance after the flapper was taken out. Besides, the instructions aren’t the best, and it will take you some time to get it up and running. 

Noise Level: 1.2 Sones | CFM: 110 | Coverage: 110Sqft | Wattage: 25W | With Light: Yes | Warranty: 2 Years

8. Homewerks Worldwide Exhaust Ventilation

For our next recommendation, even a cursory glance will leave you coming back for more. The Homewerks Worldwide Exhaust Ventilation delivers a stunning blend of durability and power, making for a potent model. It produces sufficient rotations to clean the bathroom quickly, in which case, the innovative design proves highly useful.

Firstly, it provides optimum comfort by removing moisture and humidity from the bathroom for the passage of clean air. But the high efficiency doesn’t mean it’s loud as it generates 1.5-sone to keep noise emission to a minimum. 

You’ll see noticeable results quickly and will no longer be troubled by a foul odor, thanks to the powerful ventilation. Therefore, even if you clean the bathroom with chemicals, you won’t have to worry about any lingering smell. Moreover, coupled with its 110 CFM rate, it can cover 110 square feet without any difficulty. 

The sturdy construction also features a galvanized steel body that’s rust-resistant and provides much-needed longevity. However, despite having numerous components, the installation procedure is relatively simple, thanks to the low-cut design.

It’s combined with ceiling mount ventilation, in which case the 4-inch duct connector comes in handy to provide reliable performance.

It includes plastic components, which has led to concern among users, but the major problem is that there are only two screws to hold them. You need to ensure that the screws don’t come off, so regular maintenance is the key. Apart from that, it’s essential to consider if it fits into the opening for the previous unit. 

Noise Level: 1.5 Sones | CFM: 110 | Coverage: 110Sqft | Wattage: 28W | With Light: No | Warranty: 3 Years

Best Exhaust Fan Comparison Table

Product Noise Level CFM Coverage Wattage With Light Warranty
BV Exhaust Fan 0.8 Sones 90 90Sqft 24W No 1 Year
Delta Electronics 0.4 Sones 110 N/A 15.5W Yes 3 Years
Broan-Nutone 9093WH 3.5 Sones 70 65Sqft 1500W Yes 1 Year
Broan-NuTone 678 2.5 Sones 50 45Sqft 100W Yes 1 Year
Broan-NuTone LPN80 1.0 Sones 80 75Sqft N/A No 1 Year
KAZE APPLIANCE Exhaust Fan 0.5 Sones 150 150Sqft N/A Yes 3 Years
Tech Drive Exhaust Fan 1.2 Sones 110 110Sqft 25W Yes 2 Years
Homewerks Worldwide Exhaust Ventilation 1.5 Sones 110 110Sqft 28W No 3 Years

Buying Guide For The Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan

Choosing a bathroom fan is an important decision because it not only affects the overall aesthetic of the room, but also affects the comfort level, energy efficiency, and durability of the fan.

It is important to consider many factors such as local building codes, bathroom size, noise, features, and airflow capacity when selecting the best fan for the bathroom. 

There are many fan options to choose from, some of which include a fan with a light, a powerful fan, a quietest bathroom exhaust fan, and a fan with a humidity sensor. In this guide, we’ll discuss what to consider when selecting the best fan for your bathroom. 

Local Building Codes

Before selecting a fan for the bathroom, it is important to check the local building codes to determine the requirements for the fan. Some building codes may require that fans be installed in certain places, or that they exceed a certain level of humidity.

It is important to understand the local building codes to ensure that the fan meets all the requirements. 

Bathroom Size

The size of the bathroom will also affect the size and type of fan that should be installed. It is important to select a fan that is powerful enough to move the air in the room, but not too powerful as to cause excessive noise. Generally, larger bathrooms will require more powerful fans with higher airflow capacity. 

Noise

When selecting the best bathroom fan, it is important to consider the noise level of the fan. Fans are often installed in bathrooms that are used frequently, so it is important to choose one that is quiet and won’t disturb the peace of the room. It is also important to select a fan that won’t be too loud when it is turned on. 

Aesthetic

The aesthetic of the fan should also be taken into consideration. It is important to choose a fan that matches the overall style of the room and complements the other elements of the bathroom. There are many fan options to choose from, so it is important to find one that fits the overall look of the bathroom. 

Features

When selecting the best bathroom fan, it is important to consider the features that the fan includes. Some fans may include an LED light, a humidity sensor, or a timer. It is important to select a fan that includes the features that are necessary for the room. 

Airflow Capacity

The airflow capacity of the fan is also an important factor to consider when selecting the best fan for the bathroom. The airflow capacity determines how much air the fan can move through the space. It is important to select a fan with the correct airflow capacity for the size of the bathroom. 

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider when selecting the best fan for the bathroom. It is important to choose a fan that is energy-efficient and will not increase the energy costs of the room. Fans with higher airflow capacity are usually more energy-efficient. 

Versatility

The versatility of the fan is also an important factor to consider. It is important to choose a fan that is versatile and can be used in multiple applications. Some fans may be used for more than one purpose, such as a fan that can be used to both exhaust and circulate air. 

Installation

The installation of the fan is an important factor to consider. It is important to select a fan that is easy to install and doesn’t require too much effort. It is also important to make sure that the fan is compatible with the existing ventilation system. 

Durability

The durability of the fan is an important factor to consider when selecting the best fan for the bathroom. It is important to select a fan that is made from high-quality materials and will last a long time. 

Lightning

Some fans may include an LED light, which can provide additional lighting in the bathroom. If the fan doesn’t include a light, it may be necessary to choose a separate light fixture for the bathroom. It is important to choose a fan that provides adequate lighting for the room. 

Reasons Why a Bathroom Exhaust Fan is Important

A bathroom exhaust fan is an important part of any bathroom, as it helps keep the humidity level in the room under control. Without a fan for your bathroom, the humidity could exceed safe levels and cause damage to the walls or fixtures, or even lead to the growth of moisture.

Bathroom fans are designed to remove excess moisture from the air and help keep your bathroom dry and well-ventilated. The fans work by pulling in air from the bathroom and pushing it out through ducts and vents in the roof or walls. This helps reduce the humidity and keep the air quality in the bathroom healthy.

Bathroom exhaust fans also help prevent mold and mildew growth. When the humidity levels in a bathroom exceed a certain level, mold, and mildew can start to grow. By keeping the humidity level in check, the fan helps to prevent the growth of these organisms.

In addition to preventing moisture, a bathroom exhaust fan can also help keep the air in the bathroom free of unpleasant odors. This is because the fan will help to remove any odors that are present in the air, such as those from cleaning products or cooking.

In summary, a bathroom exhaust fan is an important part of any bathroom and helps to keep the humidity level in check, prevent the growth of moisture, and keep the air in the bathroom free of unpleasant odors.

What is the difference between a ventilation fan and an exhaust fan?

A ventilation fan is used to bring fresh air into a room and circulate it. An exhaust fan, on the other hand, is used to remove stale air and odors from a room.

Ventilation fans are typically used in larger areas, while exhaust fans are best suited for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

What CFM do I need for a bathroom fan?

The size of your bathroom and the type of fan you choose will determine the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating you need for your fan. As a base rule, the minimum recommended CFM is 1 CFM per square foot of floor space.

As an example, if you have a 100-square-foot bathroom, you should use at least a 100 CFM fan rating.

Do bathroom exhaust fans have to be vented outside?

Yes, all bathroom exhaust fans must be vented outside. This helps to prevent moisture from building up inside the bathroom, which can lead to mold growth.

Can you run a bathroom fan all the time?

Yes, you can run a bathroom fan all the time if necessary. This is especially important in areas with high humidity or after taking a long, hot shower.

Running the fan continuously can help reduce the chances of mold growth.

How long should you run the bathroom fan after a shower?

Ideally, you should run the fan for at least 15 minutes after each shower to help remove moisture and odors from the air.

This helps to ensure proper ventilation and keeps the air in your bathroom fresh.

Which brand is best for an exhaust fan?

There are many brands of exhaust fans on the market, and each one has its advantages and disadvantages.

Conclusion

From the above 9 best bathroom exhaust fans, here are the top three expert recommendations:

BV Exhaust Fan is an ideal option for those who prioritize energy efficiency and super-quiet performance. It is suitable for a bathroom of 90 square feet, and its stainless-steel duct collar ensures durability. The only drawback is the poor instructions provided, which can make installation a bit challenging.

Delta Electronics is a good option for those looking for a quiet operation and energy efficiency. It features an LED that can run for 3030,000 hours, a night light, and a green LED indicator. Installation might be a bit tricky, but overall, it offers innovative design and functionality.

Broan-Nutone 9093WH Exhaust Fan is the right choice for those who need a powerful fan with added features like heating and LED lighting. It can cover a large bathroom of 100 square feet and offers easy installation. However, it might be slightly costly, and light may leak from the seam.

We genuinely appreciate your time and interest in our recommendations. We are eager to hear your thoughts and insights on our selections. Did our list resonate with your preferences, or would you like us to consider adding or removing any items?

Do you have any questions or concerns for us? Please don’t hesitate to share your opinions in the comments section below.

Our dedicated team is always here to listen and respond to your feedback as promptly as possible. Your satisfaction and understanding are our top priorities, and we truly value your perspective.

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