Ensuring proper ventilation in any home should always be a priority, particularly in areas where moisture and odours can accumulate, such as bathrooms and kitchens. This is where the extractor fan installation comes in. Properly installed extractor fan aids in removing excess moisture, mold prevention, and improving air quality, thus making your home a better place to live in.
This guide will provide you with all the information you need on extractor fans installation if you are considering it. We cover everything from what advantages they offer, how to find the right kind, and what the installation process looks like.
Why Do You Need an Extractor Fan?
In areas where steam, smoke or damp air may be problematic, extractor fans are a definite must. Here’s the case for every home to own one:
Protection Against Mould and Damp: Moisture buildup in bathrooms and kitchens can cause the growth of mould that may damage walls and compromise the indoor air quality. A fan whisks away moisture and helps to keep your area dry.
Eliminates Unpleasant Odours: An extractor fan removes the stale air of your home caused by cooking odours or humid air from the bathroom.
Enhances Air Circulation: Proper air circulation prevents rooms from filling with stagnant, moist air, which can be uncomfortable.
Protects Walls and Paintwork: Over time, excess moisture may result in peeling paint, water stains, and even damage to wooden surfaces.
If your home experiences any of these issues, you should think about extractor fan installation.
Types of Extractor Fans
Before installing a fan, it’s crucial to select one that’s appropriate for your home. The most common types of extractor fans include:
Axial Extractor Fans
➡ Better: For bathrooms, small kitchens or areas near an outside wall.
➡ Features: These are the most common type, intended to expel air directly outside through an external vent.
Centrifugal Extractor Fans
➡ Good for: Bathrooms or kitchens where the air has to travel a longer distance (for example, through a duct system).
➡ Features: More powerful air movement than axial fans, so perfect for bigger areas.
Inline Extractor Fans
➡ Best for: Homes that call for the fan to be locked into the ceiling, not a wall.
➡ Features: These fans sit inside a duct system, drawing air from a vent in the ceiling and expelling it to the outdoors.
Kitchen Cooker Hoods
➡ Best for: Kitchens that produce a lot of smoke, steam or grease from cooking
➡ Features: Typically has built-in grease filters to purify air in the kitchen.
Choosing the right extractor fans installation depends on where you need ventilation and how powerful the fan needs to be.
What to Consider Before Installing an Extractor Fan
Before beginning an extractor fan installation, there are some key points to consider:
Location – The fan should be located where it will eliminate the most moisture or smoke, which is usually located close to a shower, laden, or cooking place.
Vent Route – Kitchen fans should vent outdoors, not into loft spaces or wall spaces, since this can lead to moisture accumulation.
Size and Power – The extraction rate of fans is measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h). You’ll need larger fans for big rooms or areas with high humidity.
Noise Levels – All fans are not created equal. If it will be in a bathroom close to your bedroom, look for a quiet model.
Energy Efficiency – Go for a low-energy use model for lower ongoing costs.
We hope all these essentials will facilitate the process of extractor fans installation.
Extractor Fan Installation: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing an extractor fan is a job that isn’t DIY for all, owing to the electrical work involved and the possible need to drill through walls. Here’s a summary of how the process works:
Plan the Placement
Decide on the best place to put the fan, ideally in proximity to where most moisture or smoke is generated.
Check for an easy route to vent air outside.
Prepare the Wall or Ceiling
Mark where the fan will be installed.
Cut a hole in the wall or ceiling large enough for the fan unit.
Install the Ducting
If the fan needs to vent outside through a longer route, ducting will need to be installed.
Ensure the ductwork is sealed properly to prevent leaks.
Connect the Wiring
The fan must be wired to the home’s electrical system, usually connected to a light switch or separate control switch.
It's advised to engage a professional electrician for this process to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
Secure the Fan and Test It
Fix the fan in place, ensuring a tight fit.
Turn on the fan and check airflow to make sure it’s working properly.
Because extractor fan installation involves both electrical work and ventilation, it’s best to leave it to professionals who have experience in fitting fans safely and efficiently.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
Once your fan is installed, proper maintenance ensures it works effectively. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Fan Not Turning On – This could be due to a wiring issue, a blown fuse, or a faulty switch. Check the electrical connections and reset the circuit breaker if needed.
Weak Airflow – If the fan is running but not pulling air efficiently, the vent may be blocked or the fan could be undersized for the space.
Excess Noise – Loud fans may have loose parts, dust buildup, or low-quality motors. Cleaning the fan and checking for loose screws can help reduce noise.
Condensation Build-Up – If moisture still gathers on windows and walls, the fan may not be strong enough or may not be left on long enough after showers or cooking.
Regular cleaning and servicing will keep your extractor fan running at its best.
Final Thoughts
A well-ventilated and properly installed extraction fan is the key to air quality in your home. Whether it’s in your bathroom, kitchen or other moisture-heavy spaces, the right fan can help keep mould, odors and dampness at bay.
If you are going for extractor fan installation, read on to find out the right fan type, how to vent an extractor fan properly, and why expert installation can save you from future headaches. When it comes to a seamless and trouble-free setup, extractor fans installation should be done by a professional.
A well-ventilated home is a healthier and more comfortable place to live—so mind the importance of a good extractor fan!
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