Exhaust fan
Sometimes, you must have noticed that the smoke and smell of cooking in the kitchen stay in the house, or after taking a bath in the bathroom, water droplets stick to the walls and mirror, which is very irritating. You must have realized that it is challenging to solve all these problems without an exhaust fan.
An exhaust fan is a small device but its work is great as it takes out the stale air from inside the house or office and helps in bringing fresh air inside. It not only keeps the house fresh but also controls humidity, smell, bacteria, etc.
Imagine: cooking is going on in the kitchen and the exhaust fan is taking out the smoke. Or after taking a shower in the bathroom the exhaust fan reduces the moisture. How convenient is that? Exhaust fans keep the air in the house clean and also give you a healthy environment.
In this article, we will read about exhaust fans and learn how exhaust fans can be the secret to the freshness of your home!
If you want to read and know about every fan, visit our The Ultimate Guide to Fans.
Table of Contents
Types of Exhaust Fans
Do you want to know about the different types of exhaust fans? We have written a detailed article on how kitchen, bathroom, and industrial exhaust fans work and how to choose them. Click here to get the full information: Types of Exhaust Fans: Choose the right fan according to your needs. Understand the types of exhaust fans and choose the right fan for your home!
Benefits of Exhaust Fans
Exhaust fans not only make the air of the house fresh, but they are also very important for your health and the cleanliness of the house. Let’s understand their benefits in detail:
Air Quality Improve Karta Hai
Exhaust fans remove the stale air from inside the house and help a lot in bringing fresh air inside the lane.
Example: Exhaust fans improve the air quality by removing the smoke that is produced during cooking in the kitchen.
Controls humidity
The biggest advantage of exhaust fans is to control the moisture in the bathroom and kitchen.
Example: The exhaust fan removes the steam that forms in the bathroom after bathing so that fungus does not grow on the walls and ceiling.
Removes bad smell
The exhaust fans remove the smell of cooking in the kitchen or the smell of the bathroom.
Example: The exhaust fan easily removes the strong smell of fish or spices.
Is energy efficient
Exhaust fans use much less electricity than AC or coolers, and their load is also lower, which saves electricity bills.
Example: Exhaust fans keep the house cool by removing hot air, so the AC does not have to work too hard.
Good for Health
Bacteria and germs can remain in stagnant air, which exhaust fans remove.
Example: Due to less moisture in the bathroom, the risk of mold and fungus is reduced, which is harmful to health.
Makes the house comfortable
Fresh air and controlled humidity help in making the house comfortable.
Example: Exhaust fan removes smoke while cooking in the kitchen, due to which there is no heat in the house.
Long-Term Savings
Exhaust fans protect the walls, ceiling, and furniture of the house from moisture and grease, which reduces maintenance cost.
Example: There are no puddles of water on the walls of the bathroom, and grease does not accumulate on the walls of the kitchen.
How to Choose the Right Exhaust Fan?
Choosing a good exhaust fan is not that difficult, just keep some important factors in mind. Let’s understand step-by-step how to choose an exhaust fan for your home.
1. Choose a fan according to the room size
For a small room: If your kitchen or bathroom is small, then a small-sized exhaust fan is sufficient.
Example: For a 6×6 feet bathroom, a 100-150 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) fan is enough.
For a large room: Choose powerful fans for large kitchens or industrial areas.
Example: For a 10×10 feet kitchen, it is better to take a 200-300 CFM fan.
2. Pay attention to the noise level
Some exhaust fans are very noisy, which irritates them.
Prefer low-noise fans, especially to install near bedrooms or living areas.
Example: You can relax by installing a low-noise fan in the bathroom.
3. Check Energy Efficiency
Choose star-rated exhaust fans so that the electricity bill comes down.
Example: 5-star rated exhaust fans are more efficient and also consume less electricity.
4. Consider Design and Aesthetics
Exhaust fans should also be stylish to match the home decor.
Example: Fans with sleek designs are available for modern kitchens.
5. Decide the Installation Type
Wall-Mounted Fans: These fans are mounted on walls and are more powerful.
Example: In the kitchen, wall-mounted fans remove smoke easily.
Ceiling-Mounted Fans: These fans are mounted on the ceiling and are mostly used in bathrooms.
Example: In the bathroom, ceiling-mounted fans effectively control moisture.
6. Check Additional Features
Some exhaust fans have extra features like:
Auto Shut-Off Timer: The fan turns off automatically.
Humidity Sensor: The fan starts running automatically after detecting moisture.
Example: By installing a fan with a humidity sensor in the bathroom, you can automatically control the moisture.
7. Keep an eye on the budget
Exhaust fans are available in different price ranges. Some are cheap and some are expensive, so choose the best option according to your budget.
Example: Basic models are available in 1000-2000 rupees, while advanced models cost up to 5000 rupees.
Best Tips for Installing Exhaust Fan
It is as important to install the exhaust fan correctly as choosing the right one. Otherwise, you will not get the full benefit! Let’s see some expert tips:
1. Choose the right place
For the kitchen: Install it precisely above the stove (at a height of 30-36 inches) so that the smoke goes out straight.
For the bathroom: Install it on the ceiling or highest wall which absorbs the moisture the fastest.
Pro Tip: Never install the fan opposite the door or window – the flow of fresh air will be disturbed!
2. Get it installed by a professional
Give the wiring and cutting work to an electrician only.
Warning: If you do not have electrical knowledge, do not install it yourself – there is a risk of a short circuit but if you know, you can install it and you can gain some more knowledge by clicking on this link.
3. Take care of ventilation
Use pipes or ducts to let air out directly (from wall/roof)
Recirculating Fans: Those that only circulate air but do not let air out – these are useless!
4. Don't forget regular cleaning
Clean the fan every 2 months.
Use mild soapy water to remove grease/fluids.
Danger: Don’t dip the motor in water – just clean it with a cloth
5. Install extra safety features
Waterproof cover (must for bathroom)
Install a grill so that fingers don’t get stuck in the fan.
Choose a fan made of shock-proof material.
Common Problems of Exhaust Fans and Their Solutions
The exhaust fan sometimes becomes a problem, but there is no need to worry! Here we will tell you some common exhaust fan problems and their easy solutions which you can try at home:
1. Problem: Exhaust Fan is not working at all
Possible Reasons:
The power supply is not coming.
Switch got damaged
Motor got burnt
What to do?
✅ First check the fuse/MCB
✅ Change the switch and check
✅ If it still doesn’t work, call an electrician
2. Problem: The fan is running very slow
Possible Reasons:
Grease/dust got stuck on the blades.
Motor bearing damaged
Voltage is getting low.
Solution:
✅ Clean the fan (with mild soap)
✅ Check the blades by rotating them manually
✅ Install voltage stabilizer
3. Problem: The fan is making too much noise
Possible Reasons:
The fan screws are loose.
Blades are not balanced.
Motor lubrication is over.
What to do?
✅ Tighten all screws
✅ Balance the blade
✅ Put machine oil in the motor
4. Problem: Fan runs but air does not come out
Possible Reasons:
A vent pipe is blocked.
The duct is not properly installed.
Solution:
✅ Check the vent pipe
✅ Clean the outside cover of the duct
5. Problem: The fan smells bad
Possible Reasons:
The fungus/mold is stuck.
Dead insects are stuck.
What to do?
✅ Clean the fan with vinegar
✅ Spray mild disinfectant
Important Tip:
If the problem is not solved even after trying 2-3 times, then think of getting a new fan. Sometimes it is better to buy a new fan instead of getting it repaired!
“The average lifespan of an exhaust fan is 5-7 years. If your fan is older than this then it is time to upgrade, it!”
Future of Exhaust Fans
Exhaust fans are no longer just “fans” – they are becoming smart, stylish and energy-efficient! Let’s see how exhaust fans are going to change in the coming years
1. Smart Exhaust Fans
Auto-On/Off Feature: The fan will start running automatically as soon as it detects humidity or smoke
App Control: You will be able to control the speed and timer of the fan from the phone
Voice Control: The fan starts as soon as you say “Ok Google, turn on kitchen exhaust”!
2. Super Silent Technology
DC motors that will not make unnecessary noise
Noise level less than 20dB
Amazing Fact: Today’s fans are being made with “Whisper Quiet” technology!
3. Built-in Air Purifiers
HEPA filter will be installed along with the fan
Along with smoke and odor, it will also filter dust particles.
Future Idea: “3-in-1 Exhaust Fan” which removes smoke, purifies the air and also controls humidity
4. Solar Powered Exhaust Fans
Will come with solar panels
Will run on solar energy during the day, with battery backup at night
5. Self-Cleaning Technology
Automatic blade cleaning system
Fans that kill bacteria and mold with UV light
Pro Tip: Today’s fans also come with “Anti-Dust Coating”
6. Stylish & Invisible Designs
Exhaust fans with LED lights
Hidden exhaust fans that blend into the ceiling/wall
Trendy Example: Glass finish Exhaust fan that enhances kitchen decor
Finally:
In the coming 5 years, exhaust fans will be seen in a completely new avatar. From smart features to solar power – these will not only clean the air but will also make your home modern!
Conclusion
Exhaust fans are not just one thing – they are a complete package of air quality, health, and comfort in your home! Whether it’s kitchen smoke, bathroom humidity, or room odor, a good exhaust fan can manage it all.
Remember:
✔️ Choose the right fan (by looking at the size and features)
✔️ Professional installation (do not do the wiring yourself)
✔️ Regular cleaning (clean it every 2-3 months)
If your fan is more than 5-7 years old, then upgrade it to a new smart/energy-efficient exhaust fan. Because…
“Fresh air = Healthy life = Happy family!”
Final Question:
Has your home not got an exhaust fan installed yet? If not, then think of getting one installed today itself – the air in your home will be fresh and your health will also be good!
Extra Tip:
Never consider an exhaust fan as “optional” – it is an essential home appliance, just like a fridge or geyser!
