Bathroom fans: what are they and how to choose?

High-quality bathroom fans are now in well-deserved demand. This is due to the fact that we are talking about the wettest room in any apartment or house. In such cases, you should know what exhaust devices are and how to choose the most suitable model for each specific situation.

It should be noted that in apartment buildings there are ventilation system channels, including in the bathroom. Based on this, some homeowners do not find it necessary to install an exhaust fan in the bathroom. The above-mentioned natural draft channels run from the ground floor and open onto the roof of the house. However, most often the effectiveness of such structures is not enough to create a comfortable microclimate, especially in conditions of high humidity.

Those who are considering the possibility and feasibility of equipping a bathroom with an exhaust device should take into account the following important points:

• humidity indicators in the region;
• tightness of windows and doors, which can prevent the penetration of fresh air into the room for natural ventilation;
• the correct design and performance of the ventilation ducts required for the circulation of air masses;
• the location of the house itself (buildings located next to water bodies or in areas with an increased level of groundwater deserve special attention);
• in regions characterized by a hot climate and lack of winds, natural ventilation systems of premises, as a rule, do not differ in efficiency.

It is necessary to focus on the key advantages of installing a hood with a fan. The list of those includes the following factors.

1. The ceiling and walls of the bathroom will stop damp almost immediately. Consequently, mold and mildew will not appear, as well as condensation will not form.
2. The main advantages of modern devices include maximum ease of installation and operation. In most cases, you can install the fan yourself, with basic skills and a minimum set of tools.
3. This extraction equipment is easy to maintain.
4. Most of the models are compact, so they can be equipped even in the smallest rooms.
5. More than a rich assortment of models allows you to choose the best option, taking into account various criteria, including the interior features of a bathroom or a toilet.

In this case, it is worth paying attention to the following points:

• the devices in question are electrical, and their operation is associated with certain (minor) costs;
• in some situations, the fan can make noise during operation, creating discomfort;
• to prolong the life of the device, it is necessary to periodically clean and lubricate the device.

In fairness, it should be noted that all of the listed disadvantages are fully leveled by the indisputable advantages of exhaust fans... This is most relevant for modern models with check valves, timers and electronic humidity sensors.

As already noted, the need to install equipment is determined in each specific case individually... In this case, the key point will be fan model selection... In such a situation, it is worth considering the varieties of exhaust devices available on the modern market.

Analyzing the varieties of the proposed exhaust devices, it is worth focusing on the introduction of advanced technologies... And in this case we are talking about centrifugal installations for forced ventilation. The designs of these powerful devices with minimal noise levels include:

• wheel with blades;
• channels with a circular or rectangular cross-section;
• mechanisms for air injection and suction.

These installations are concealed and overhead installations. Air masses are sucked in by centrifugal force and then pushed out by the next stream. The main advantages of such systems include:

• reliability of air ducts;
• installation of a fan in front of the air intake or in the center of communications;
• the ability to operate in rooms with heavy pollution;
• resistance to frequent and significant temperature changes.

Speaking about the disadvantages of centrifugal devices, it should be highlighted:

• low energy efficiency;
• susceptibility to voltage drops;
• the need to install an anemostat.

Recently, popularity has been growing roof structures... In addition to the fan itself, they include vibration-isolating pads, adjusting devices operating in automatic mode.

Devices belonging to this category, represent a wheel located in a cylindrical body. On its surface are cantilever blades. The whole structure is fixed on an axial electric motor, and the principle of its operation is based on the capture of air and its movement by the blades during the rotation of the wheel. To accommodate axial fans, holes are made in the ventilation ducts. The main advantages of such equipment include:

• high efficiency;
• ease of installation;
• lack of air ducts;
• resistance to load fluctuations;
• the ability to use at low pressure;
• compactness.

The list of significant shortcomings includes weak air pressure and a fairly high noise level (up to 50 dB). To increase the aerodynamic performance, it is recommended to install a manifold at the beginning of the exhaust structure.

Taking into account the peculiarities of installation, the exhaust fans can be divided into overhead fans (installed at the inlet of ventilation shafts) and ducted fans, which are located inside the air ducts. By the way, the first type of devices is most often used in residential premises. Dfor buildings (including residential buildings) with a branched ventilation system the second category will be relevant.

Now in the corresponding market segment there is a fairly wide range of practically silent duct fans. They are also divided into several subspecies.... At the same time, the microclimate created in the bathroom directly depends on the technical characteristics of the devices. One of the key points is the minimum noise level during operation.

An equally important characteristic of ventilation equipment is its performance. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the dimensions and design features of the room, as well as the system itself. Today, manufacturers offer potential buyers devices related to:

• axial, also called axial (most common);
• radial;
• centrifugal models.

It should be noted that the described fans can be installed almost anywhere in the duct.

All forced draft devices produced today are standardized... In this case, there are several basic standard sizes of fans. It is important to remember that in the process of choosing a specific model the dimensions of the ventilation duct and the holes in it should be taken into account... Naturally, in some situations, the latter can be increased in diameter. However, such manipulations involve a certain amount of time and require appropriate effort.

There is a whole list of design features of various categories of the described equipment.... Speaking about the diameter of the duct, it is necessary to clarify that there are standard sizes, namely: 100, 120 and 150 mm. Naturally, there are models with other parameters on the market.

As mentioned above, manufacturing companies provide their customers with more than a wide range of components for ventilation systems. However, with such a variety, it can be difficult to choose the best options. Actual and objective ratings of the most popular models can come to the rescue in such situations. For those who put the financial side of the issue at the forefront, the budget segment will be the best solution.

An exhaust fan model equipped with a check valve, which costs 2 thousand rubles on average. Speaking about the main characteristics of the fan, it should be noted that its power is 7.5 kW, and its performance and noise level are 97 cubic meters / h and 25 dB, respectively. The short sleeve allows the device to be installed both in a shaft and in an air duct. The declared runtime of the bearing is 40,000 hours. In addition, the main competitive advantages of the model include:

• profitability;
• increased productivity;
• effective protection against moisture;
• reliability;
• durability

The list of minuses includes the following points:

• low density of the check valve;
• in some cases, additional automation is required.

A device characterized primarily by functionality. It has a hydrostat, adjustable timer and light indication. This eight-watt fan is able to create a comfortable microclimate inside a bathroom or toilet in automatic mode, processing up to 95 "cubic" of air per hour. The main advantages of the model:

• tight fit of the power unit;
• minimum noise level;
• performance;
• ease of installation;
• stylish appearance.

A budgetary axial model of Russian production, which is mounted by wall and ceiling methods and has a light indication. The fan performance is 97 cubic meters / h with a noise level of 35 dB. The main advantages of the model include:

• versatility;
• the presence of a mosquito net as an option;
• structural reliability;
• durability (up to 35,000 hours of continuous operation);
• efficiency (even when removing cigarette smoke);
• ease of use and minimal maintenance.

According to reviews, some users focus on the rapid wear of bearings, as well as on the fact that the fan is often clogged with dust.

Those wishing to purchase a reliable hood with an optimal ratio of cost and quality are recommended pay attention to the middle price category. This market segment includes products from all industry leaders, as well as less well-known manufacturers.

Model Silent 100 Design 3C by Soler & Palau is an axial fan with a power of 8 W and a noise level of 27 dB. A potential buyer is offered a design device with a waterproof case for 2.5 thousand rubles. The fans are available in white, gray, beige, red and steel colors. They have the following advantages:

• maximum resistance to moisture;
• minimum noise;
• increased productivity.

Of the shortcomings of the model, special attention should be paid to the installation features. Some users note that improper installation will significantly increase the noise level during the operation of the equipment.

Duct exhaust fan, the cost of which is about 3 thousand rubles. The motor of the device is reliably protected from moisture and overheating. At the same time, its productivity reaches 130 cubic meters per hour. When evaluating the characteristics of the model, one should focus on:

• compactness;
• efficiency;
• the ability to connect to both a standard and an autonomous switch;
• high level of generated pressure;
• build quality.

Disadvantages:

• lack of a timer and switch-on sensor;
• relatively high noise level.

This is a representative of the Electrolux brand lineup. Its main features include the presence of a removable panel. With a power of 15 W and a noise level of up to 30 dB, the device is capable of processing up to 100 "cubes" of air masses per hour. Main competitive advantages:

• a large selection of colors;
• high power;
• moisture protection;
• long service life.

Disadvantages of the model:

• the need to clean the blades at least once every 6 months;
• the occurrence of difficulties in self-service of the device.

Naturally, many well-known manufacturers present on the market models belonging to the upper price range. At the same time, the premium class model lines are quite diverse.

An exhaust fan, which costs an average of 4.5 thousand rubles. This model belongs to the category of centrifugal attachments and is equipped with a spring-type check valve. Its main advantages include:

• the presence of automatic correction of humidity in the range of 45-90%;
• versatility;
• body strength;
• extended air duct.

If it speaks about the shortcomings, then it is worth noting the relatively high noise level... It is also not recommended to install this model next to a shower stall.

The Silent 100 CHZ fan, manufactured by Soler & Palau, is powerful device with integrated humidity sensor... Its cost is about 6.5 thousand rubles. At the same time, the fan motor is capable of operating continuously for up to 30,000 hours. Pros of the model:

• the ability to run in high humidity conditions;
• relatively low noise level;
• structural reliability;
• duration of operation;
• energy efficiency.

The disadvantages of this exhaust fan, users refer to the difficulties with the initial setup of the device.

This is a 25W model with an original color panel. The fan can be installed on walls, ceilings and air ducts. Its key benefits include:

• high performance;
• ease of installation and panel replacement;
• build quality;
• engine durability.

As noted above, the modern market is able to satisfy almost any needs of a potential consumer due to more than a wide range of products presented on it. When choosing the best option, you should take into account a number of important points and certain recommendations.

First of all, experts advise pay attention to performance. This indicator is a multiple of air exchange. An important point in this case will be the number of residents. So, if the bathroom will be used by no more than 3 people, then the installation should be a multiple of 6, and if more than three - 8. By the way, the following performance indicators (m3 / h) are established by the current sanitary standards:

• minimum - 25;
• for combined bathrooms - 50;
• for wall-mounted hoods - up to 100.

No less important selection criteria will be safety and noise level. It should be noted that in the context of current standards, the latter indicator varies in the range of 25-30 dB. If the interior partitions in the house or apartment are thin, it is recommended to equip the soundproofing of the ventilation duct. Deserve special attention dust and moisture protection... It is from these characteristics that the degree of risk of a short circuit and wiring failure depends.

In addition to all of the above, when choosing an exhaust fan model, it is necessary to take into account nozzle diameter, and features of device installation. Most often on the market you can find devices with a nozzle diameter of 100, 120 and 150 mm. The equipment can be installed both outside the ventilation system and inside it (overhead and duct models). In the first case, the fan is installed on the wall or ceiling of the bathroom.

So, the fan casing is cast from ABS or plastic, the main characteristic of which is maximum resistance to mechanical stress.

Do not forget and about the method of connecting ventilation devices... In most cases, the fans are activated when the room light is turned on. For many potential buyers, one of the key factors will be the list of additional options. In particular, fans can be equipped with:

• timers, which are adjustable and non-adjustable;
• motion sensor;
• Remote control;
• own switch;
• air aromatization system;
• automatic blinds;
• a system responsible for protecting the device from moisture;
• integrated radio receivers.

When choosing a fan for a bathroom or a bathroom, the following important points should be considered:

• there should be no damage or seams on the body;
• increased power will cause corresponding energy consumption;
• radial models are characterized by minimal noise;
• overhead fans are the best choice for frequent use;
• structures belonging to the duct category are suitable for houses with a branched ventilation system.

In addition, it must be taken into account that devices equipped with a system that control the humidity in the room are distinguished by the maximum efficiency.

Many popular models of hoods can be installed by yourself. Moreover, the entire installation process will be as simple as possible. Minimum skills are required to complete all necessary work. The algorithm includes the following steps.

1. Remove the front panel of the device.
2. Connect the wiring through the terminal block. It is important to remember that the blue wire corresponds to zero, and the red, white or black wire corresponds to the phase.
3. Place the fan in the opening of the ventilation duct.
4. Fasten the device body using the dowels and self-tapping screws included in the delivery set.
5. Replace the cover and mosquito net, if any.

When installing the described elements of the ventilation system, several of the most important points must be taken into account.

1. The ventilation shaft must be functional. Otherwise, the entire exhaust system will be ineffective.
2. Moist air drawn from the bathroom must be replaced with fresh air. To do this, you should take care of the presence of small gaps under the entrance door, ensuring circulation.
3. The ventilation efficiency directly depends on the correct selection of the exhaust fan model, taking into account all the above factors.

It should be noted that such openings are available in almost all apartments and are an integral part of natural ventilation systems. It is important to consider that a standard duct, provided that it is in good condition, is able to provide an unobstructed discharge of the air blown by the fan... In this case, performance indicators can reach 100 "cubes" per hour.

Often, when buying a fan, mistakes are made with the choice of the diameter of its branch pipe. If there is no way to exchange the device, then here you can find a way out of the situation. The narrow outlet of the ventilation duct is expanded using a perforator... In situations where the branch pipe of the device turned out to be less than necessary, you can use inserts from plastic pipes, and fill the voids with polyurethane foam.

In addition, when installing hood equipment attention should be paid to the wiring diagram for the power supply... In this case, it is best to lay the wiring in advance, during repair and finishing work. An alternative could be use of practical cable channels.

For information on how to choose a fan for your bathroom, see the next video.