Believe it or not, building codes in some communities do not actually require an exhaust fan in each and every bathroom in your home. In Phoenix, for example, it’s basically either a bathroom window or bathroom exhaust fan. The primary purpose is the proper ventilation of the bathroom, and a window alone could fulfill that goal.

With so many benefits of having an exhaust fan, however, we’d definitely choose to have both a window and a fan. If you could, why wouldn’t you?

Benefits of Having a Bathroom Exhaust Fan

We won’t get too graphic here. We’re sure you know what goes on in your bathroom better than we do. But still, consider this …

• You can buy exhaust fans with a variety of features, such as a heat lamp. And when we say heat lamp, we’re not talking just plain old heat here. A heat lamp mysteriously provides a soothing sensation by massaging you from head to toe.
• The main purpose of the fan is to push moisture out of your bathroom in order to prevent mold and mildew. Have you seen what those things can do to a bathroom when they’re out of control? It’s downright ugly.
• As you’re taking your shower or bath, the exhaust fan assists in cooling the room by reducing the amount of steam in there. Without it, you would end up sweating buckets before you even step out of the bathroom. And then you’d have to take another shower. And another. Heck, you might never get to where you’re going.
• The fan masks sounds and clears odors – and we said just about enough for this point.
• When you turn on your exhaust fan before you take your shower, you can see yourself in the mirror after you’re done. You accomplish nothing when you try to wipe that condensation off your mirror with your hand – except for maybe creating a bunch of streaks that you’ll have to polish off later.
• Cleaning products tend to have harsh chemicals that can irritate your eyes, give you headaches, and even cause dizziness and nausea. Because a bathroom is generally a small room, the effects of chemicals can be more intense, and even natural products can cause unpleasant side effects. Turning on the bathroom exhaust fan while you’re cleaning can clear some of the noxious fumes.

Types of Bathroom Fans

Although people are most used to seeing ceiling-mounted fans, inline exhaust fans and wall-mounted fans are available as well. There’s also a small difference between exhaust fans and ventilation fans; generally speaking, it’s about how the air is circulated and whether it’s coming in, going out, or both. The fan that is most suitable for your needs depends on factors including the duct work in your home, the structure of your bathroom, personal preference, and the setup of your overall house, such as whether or not you have an attic.

Check your local building codes and contact a qualified electrician or HVAC technician to help you if necessary. And for a full bathroom remodel, contact us!