If you’ve ever walked out of a steamy shower and felt the room still damp, you know a good bathroom fan matters. It pulls out moisture, stops mould, and keeps the air fresh. But many people ignore the fan until it starts whining, rattling, or just stops working. Here’s a straight‑forward guide that tells you when to replace, how to keep it humming, and when to call a professional.
Not every fan needs a full swap. First, listen for loud humming or rattling – that usually means the motor bearings are worn out. Next, check the airflow. Hold a piece of paper under the vent; if it’s barely lifted, the fan has lost its punch.
Water damage is another red flag. If you see rust, peeling paint, or moisture on the housing, the fan’s internal parts are corroded and a new unit will be safer. Finally, look at the age. Most fans last 7‑10 years. If yours is older and you’re already dealing with performance issues, replace it while you’re planning other home upgrades.
Cleaning the fan is easier than most think. Turn off the power at the breaker, remove the cover, and vacuum the blades and housing with a soft brush. A bit of mild soap and water on a cloth can wipe away grime, but never soak the motor.
If the fan runs but doesn’t move air, the grille may be clogged. Take it off and clean any dust or hair that’s built up. In many cases, a quick clean restores full flow.
For a noisy fan, tighten any loose screws on the housing and motor. Sometimes the mounting brackets are the problem. If the noise persists, lubricate the motor bearings with a few drops of light oil – but only if the manufacturer says it’s OK.
When you need a new fan, you have two choices: DIY install or hire a pro. Swapping a basic vented fan usually just requires removing the old unit, wiring the new one (same voltage), and securing it in place. If your fan is hard‑wired to a switch or you’re adding a new vent, it’s safest to call a qualified electrician or a plumber who knows ventilation systems. Mistakes with wiring can cause shorts or fire hazards.
Choosing the right replacement is simple if you know your needs. For small bathrooms, a 50‑cubic‑feet‑per‑minute (CFM) fan is enough. Larger spaces need 80‑100 CFM or more. Look for a model with a low noise rating – under 1.5 sones is quiet enough for most homes.
Energy‑efficient fans have a built‑in humidity sensor that turns the motor on only when moisture is detected. This saves electricity and extends the fan’s life because it runs less often.
Before you buy, measure the existing fan’s dimensions and note how it mounts (wall, ceiling, or inline). Most UK retailers list these specs, so you can match the new unit exactly.
Finally, keep a maintenance schedule. Every six months, give the fan a quick visual check and a light clean. If you notice any signs of wear, act early – it’s cheaper to fix a small problem than replace a whole unit later.
Whether you clean, replace, or call in a pro, a well‑kept bathroom fan protects your home from damp, mould, and costly repairs. Take a few minutes now, and you’ll enjoy a fresher, safer bathroom for years to come.
Wondering if you should call an electrician for your faulty extractor fan? This article breaks down when an electrician is the expert you need and what jobs they can handle. You'll learn about the most common issues with extractor fans, how electricians tackle repairs, and when it's time to think about a full replacement. Get practical advice to keep your bathroom or kitchen fan running smoothly. You might even find a few easy fixes to try yourself before picking up the phone.