Call on a pro to get your bathroom fan spinning again
When your budget is running tight and your stress is at an all-time high, your bathroom might double as an at-home spa. But all that moisture from your “sauna” can cause problems. If this sounds a lot like you, you need to know who to hire to install a bathroom exhaust fan to keep excess humidity down and relaxation high.
Various professionals can handle bathroom exhaust fan installations, depending on the complexity and the required skills for ductwork, electrical components, and exterior venting.
A general contractor is a great option for installing a bathroom exhaust fan because they're skilled in all home renovation projects. Even though they might specialize in something other than electrical or HVAC work, they can ensure everything gets done correctly and coordinate the installation smoothly. Their broad expertise ensures they can take care of extra tasks like fixing the walls and painting after an installation.
They're experts in wiring and ensuring everything is safely connected to power sources. Beyond just hooking up the electrical components, electricians can also advise on the best placement for the fan to maximize ventilation effectiveness. Their attention to detail and focus on safety make them a reliable option for ensuring your bathroom exhaust fan is installed correctly and functions optimally.
When it comes to ductwork, you need an HVAC pro. They understand the complexities of ductwork and airflow dynamics, so they can ensure that the exhaust fan effectively removes moisture and odors from the bathroom.
HVAC technicians can also assess the existing ventilation setup and make adjustments to optimize performance. Additionally, they have the skills to troubleshoot and resolve any issues related to the ventilation system, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of the exhaust fan.
A handyperson is an excellent choice for a straightforward installation that doesn't require specialized electrical or HVAC expertise. With their general home repair and maintenance skills, handypeople can mount the fan, connect it to the existing ductwork, and ensure proper ventilation by following the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Additionally, handypeople are often more affordable for relatively simple installs than specialized contractors, providing a budget-friendly option for homeowners upgrading their bathroom ventilation.
If you’re removing an existing fan and replacing it with a new fan, this can be a DIY job. Installing a bathroom exhaust fan where there wasn’t one before, however, is a bit more complicated. Bathroom exhaust fans need electricity to work, so if there isn’t existing wiring, you may need to hire an electrician.
Fans also need to vent to the outside of your home, so whether you’re installing a wall or ceiling exhaust fan, you’ll need to cut a hole through the exterior to complete the installation process. Any time you cut a hole in the exterior of the home, it’s important to make sure it’s sealed properly to prevent any leaks and eventual water damage.
If you’re handy and have tackled other DIY projects, you might be able to do the entire job on your own. But if there’s any step you’re uncomfortable with, it might be time to reach out to a pro.
You may need a new bathroom fan if your fan doesn’t seem to be working properly, if it’s more than 10 years old, or if both factors apply. The life span of a bathroom exhaust fan depends on how often you use it, how well you maintain it, and the quality of the fan itself.
Here are some signs that you may need to replace your bathroom fan:
Your bathroom stays humid for longer than usual after a shower or bath.
Towels or bath mats take longer to dry.
There are lingering odors in your bathroom. (Though this could also indicate that it might just be time to clean your bath fan.)
Replacing a bathroom exhaust fan is a budget-friendly project to add to your bathroom remodel cost estimate or do alone. Small upgrades can make a big difference, so don’t forget this little detail when thinking of all the bathroom remodel ideas you’d like to bring to life.
The cost to replace your bathroom fan depends on the type of fan you need. You can get a new basic exhaust fan for $15 to $80, or one with a light for $35 to $420. For additional features like a fan with a light and heater, the price goes up to $75 to $425. This extra cost can be worthwhile if you don’t like feeling cold when stepping out of the shower. Also, you might upgrade your fan with a motion sensor light, which costs an additional $20 to $120.
Some experienced DIYers can handle swapping out the old fan for the new one. However, working with a local bathroom fan installer is always a smart call. Pros have the experience to tackle complicated rewiring and ductwork. The result is a job done right the first time, protecting your investment.
Be aware of any local regulations, permit requirements, or anything else that might affect your project. Maintaining a working bathroom fan or fans is an important part of keeping your home up to code, and failure to do so could be a problem if you're planning on listing your property or already have it on the market.
Electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, and other contractors in your area should be aware of the requirements for keeping your bathroom exhaust system up to code and ready for potential home inspections—another reason to consider bringing in a professional for a bathroom exhaust fan installation project.
Mizuki Hisaka and Stephanie Mickelson contributed to this piece.
