Knowing how extractor fans work will show just how important their use is, especially when it comes to reducing the problems associated with excess moisture and humidity, which are generated by activities like showering and cooking.
In the bathroom especially, extractor fans often go unnoticed in the background. Yet, a lack of effective extraction is when condensation, mould and damp start to negatively affect not just the room itself, but even the rest of your property.
If you are looking to improve the air quality of your home or commercial bathroom, we hope this guide explaining how extractor fans work will prove useful.
What Does An Extractor Fan Do?
An extractor fan removes moist or stale air from a room such as a bathroom or a kitchen.
How an extractor fan works is that a motorised propellor spins which draws the air out of the room through a duct. This duct eventually expels the air outside. By drawing the air out, fresh air will be drawn in to replace the existing air. The fresh air will not only smell cleaner but will also have lower moisture and humidity levels.
The fan exhausts must always lead outside, rather than up to the attic for example, as this will ensure the moisture is truly removed rather than simply shifting it to another part of the home or building. Extractor fans can be programmed to work in several ways. For instance, they can automatically turn on when the lights of a bathroom or washroom are also turned on. This ensures that moisture doesn’t have a chance to build up, especially in commercial environments.
Alternatively, extractor fans can work via manual operation, such as during and after a shower. Or, at any other time required.
The capabilities of an extractor fan are measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). The larger the CFM, the more air will be extracted in a shorter timescale. Commercial bathrooms typically require 8-12 air changes per hour, meaning the CFM rating will need to comply with this need.
Types Of Extractor Fans
- Ceiling mounted
- Combination units
- Inline
- Wall mounted
Why Are Extractor Fans Essential In Bathrooms Or Washrooms?
In a bathroom or washroom, removing moist or humid air before it has a chance to condense on surfaces or affect the moisture levels in the whole building, greatly reduces the chances of mould or damp from forming.
Find out how to reduce window condensation here.
In addition, extractor fans also work to freshen the air. Beyond moisture and humidity, washrooms can be subject to unpleasant aromas. Even if the washroom is not in use the air quality can become stale. So an extractor fan will also address air quality as a whole, by encouraging fresh air back into the room.
Bathroom Fan Extractor - Air Ventilation Building Regulations
Having an extractor fan in a residential or commercial bathroom can also be required by building regulations. Anyone undertaking a washroom renovation will need to check the latest guidance, which at the time of writing is The Building Regulations etc. (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2021.
There are two main requirements to ensure fresh air, which are as follows:
Purge - This involves opening a window to manually allow fresh air to circulate in the room. The window must comply with the ability to be opened to a certain degree and angles (these are based on the size of the room). For toilets only, purge ventilation only may be acceptable.
Extractor Fan - Any new bathroom or kitchen installation will usually require the installation or replacement of an extractor fan, in line with ‘Approved Document F’.
How Do Extractor Fans Work FAQ
Still have questions about extractor fans and how they work? We’ve answered some of the most common queries below.
If you’re researching extractor fans as part of a commercial washroom installation or refurbishment, please contact us on 0115 811 4242 for a free quote.
What Is An Extractor Fan?
An extractor fan is a ventilation device that removes stale, humid air from a room and expels it to the outside of the building. In bathrooms, extractor fans play a vital role in controlling moisture levels produced by baths, showers and general use. Without adequate ventilation, condensation can build up on walls, mirrors and ceilings, leading to mould growth, damp patches and long-term damage to surfaces and fixtures. Extractor fans are available in a range of styles and sizes, from simple wall-mounted units to more powerful inline fans suitable for larger spaces. Modern fans often include features such as humidity sensors, timers and ultra-quiet motors, making them as discreet as they are functional.
How To Fit An Extractor Fan
Fitting a bathroom extractor fan involves cutting an appropriately sized hole in the wall or ceiling, running ducting to an external vent, and wiring the fan into your bathroom's electrical circuit. The exact process will depend on whether you are installing a wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted or inline fan. Because extractor fans in bathrooms must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations, any electrical work must either be carried out by a qualified electrician or notified to your local authority building control. It is also important to ensure the fan is positioned in the correct IP-rated zone relative to your bath or shower.
When you enlist the services of Inspired Washrooms for a commercial bathroom installation, we’ll take care of any extractor fan installations on behalf of your business. However, for homeowners, professional installation is the safest and most reliable approach.
How To Clean An Extractor Fan
To clean a bathroom extractor fan, start by turning off the power at the fuse board or isolator switch. Remove the front grille by gently pulling or unclipping it from the housing. Wash the grille in warm soapy water, rinse and leave it to dry completely. Use a soft brush or dry cloth to carefully remove any dust or debris from the fan blades and the interior of the housing. Avoid using wet cloths directly on the motor or electrical components. Once everything is fully dry, reattach the grille and restore the power. Regular cleaning every three to six months will keep your fan running efficiently and help extend its lifespan.
How To Clean An Extractor Fan Filter
Some extractor fans, particularly inline and centrifugal models, include a removable filter that traps dust and grease before it reaches the motor. To clean it, isolate the power supply and remove the grille to access the filter. Most filters can be gently washed in warm water with a mild detergent. Allow the filter to dry thoroughly before refitting, as moisture near the motor can cause damage. If the filter appears damaged or heavily clogged, it is worth replacing it rather than cleaning it. Check your fan's manual for the manufacturer's recommended cleaning intervals, as a blocked filter can significantly reduce extraction performance.
Do You Need An Extractor Fan In A Bathroom?
In most cases, yes. Building Regulations Part F requires bathrooms without openable windows to have mechanical ventilation, and even in bathrooms with windows, an extractor fan is strongly advisable. Windows alone are rarely sufficient to remove the volume of moisture produced by a shower or bath, particularly during colder months when windows are kept closed. Persistent humidity without proper ventilation leads to condensation, mould and deterioration of decorative finishes, tiles and grout. Installing an extractor fan is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your bathroom and maintain a healthy indoor environment. Whether you are fitting out a new bathroom or upgrading an existing one, an extractor fan should be considered an essential rather than an optional addition.
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