HOW TO CHOOSE AN EXHAUST FAN

Exhaust fans remove moisture, steam and odours from your home. They help prevent mould and keep the air fresh. They’re most commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries - anywhere that moisture or cooking fumes build up.

This guide will help you understand the different types of exhaust fans and how to choose the right one. 

Choose the right exhaust fan for your space

Choosing the right exhaust fan starts with understanding the space it’s going into. Consider the size of the room, how much moisture or steam is produced, and where the fan will be installed. Some spaces may benefit from added features like lighting or heating, while others simply need strong, quiet ventilation to keep the air fresh and comfortable. 

Bathrooms produce a lot of steam from showers, baths and sinks. Without ventilation, this moisture can lead to mould, damp surfaces and lingering odours.

An exhaust fan removes this moisture and helps keep the room dry and comfortable.

For the best airflow, fresh air needs to enter the room as well. This can come from a gap under the door or an open window. 

3-in-1 units combine heating, ventilation and lighting in one fitting.

They’re a popular choice for bathrooms because they warm the space in cooler months while removing steam and moisture. Many models also include a cooling blow fan, giving you gentle airflow without heat in warmer weather. The built-in light also replaces the need for a separate ceiling fitting, making them a practical year-round solution. 

Kitchen exhaust fans remove cooking smoke, grease and odours from the air.

They’re usually installed above or near the cooktop to capture fumes while you cook. In larger kitchens, they can help support a rangehood by improving airflow and ventilation. 

Look for models with strong airflow. 

Inline exhaust fans are installed within ducting rather than directly in the ceiling.

This makes them a good option when you want strong airflow with quieter operation. They’re often used in bathrooms, laundries and kitchens. 

Ceiling exhaust fans are the most common option. They’re installed directly in the ceiling and are suitable for bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms.

Choose a fan that suits the size of your room and offers quiet, efficient operation. 

Wall-mounted exhaust fans are a practical option where ceiling space isn’t available.

Ideal for bathrooms, toilets and laundries, they remove moisture, steam and odours to help prevent mould. A built-in run-on timer keeps the fan running after switch-off to clear remaining humidity and reduce condensation. 

DC exhaust fans use less energy than traditional AC fans.

They’re also quieter and often include additional features like motion sensing or low-power 24-hour ventilation, giving you more control over airflow. 

Exhaust fans with built-in lights provide ventilation and illumination in one fitting. 

They’re a practical choice for bathrooms and other small spaces where you want to reduce the number of ceiling fixtures. 

IP ratings and placement

In bathrooms, exhaust fans near showers should have an appropriate IP rating of IP44 and above. This protects the electrical components from moisture and steam.

Placement makes a big difference to how well an exhaust fan works. Position it as close as practical to the main source of steam - usually the shower or bath - so it can remove moisture before it spreads through the room.

It’s also important to think about where fresh air enters, ideally flowing from a doorway or window across the bathroom and toward the fan. This helps create better airflow through the whole space, improving ventilation and keeping the room more comfortable. 

Explore our range of exhaust fans

By considering the specific needs of your space and the features of each type of exhaust fan, you can choose the most suitable option for optimal ventilation, light and heat requirements. When selecting an exhaust fan, consider the size of the room, where the fan will be installed, whether you want additional features like lights or heating and noise levels and energy efficiency . The right exhaust fan will keep your space fresh, dry and comfortable.