Last Updated on January 22, 2023
Installing an extractor fan in your bathroom is a great way to keep the air fresh and ensure it stays free of moisture. It can seem daunting, but don’t worry – fitting a bathroom extractor fan doesn’t have to be complicated! With this guide, you’ll get all the tools, tips and tricks you need for a successful installation. So whether you’re looking for step-by-step instructions or troubleshooting advice, we’ve got everything covered so that by the end of this blog post, fitting a bathroom extractor fan will no longer be something on your ‘to do’ list!
Table of Contents:
Tools You’ll Need
When it comes to installing an extractor fan in your bathroom, you’ll need a few essential tools and materials. Firstly, you’ll need a screwdriver set with both Phillips and flathead tips. These will be used to remove the existing cover plate of the fan, as well as any screws that may be holding it in place. Secondly, you’ll need drill bits for drilling holes into walls or ceilings if necessary. Thirdly, you’ll also require some screws to secure the new fan into place. Finally, a sealant is needed to ensure there are no gaps between the wall/ceiling and the fan unit itself – this will help prevent moisture from entering these spaces over time.
Before you begin fitting your extractor fan, ensure you have all the necessary tools. Now let’s move on to our step-by-step guide.
Step-by-Step Guide
Measure the Hole for the Fan
Before you start, make sure to measure the hole in your bathroom wall where you plan to install the fan. This will help ensure that you purchase a fan with a compatible size. Take measurements of both width and height so that you can find an extractor fan that fits perfectly. If possible, take pictures of your measurements as well – this will come in handy when shopping around for fans.
Purchase Your Extractor Fan
Once you have taken all the necessary measurements, it’s time to purchase your extractor fan. There are many different types available on the market today, so be sure to do some research before making a decision. Consider factors such as noise level, energy efficiency and cost when selecting a fan. Also, keep in mind any additional accessories or fittings needed for installation (e.g., ducting).
Install Your Extractor Fan
Now it’s time to get down to business and install your new extractor fan. First off, turn off power at the circuit breaker before beginning work on electrical wiring – safety first. Then use a drill or saw (depending on the material) to cut out an opening according to your previously measured dimensions; if necessary, use sealant around the edges of the opening after cutting is complete. Once done with the cutting/sealing process, attach mounting brackets onto the backside of extracted using screws provided by the manufacturer; these should fit into pre-drilled holes located near the edge of the unit’s frame. Next, connect electrical wires from the house wiring system directly into terminals located inside the rear panel of extracted – always double-check that connections are secure before moving on to the next step. Finally, insert the exhaust pipe into the outlet port at the bottom side of the unit, then mount the whole assembly onto a wall using the mounting brackets attached earlier; again, make sure everything is securely fastened before testing out the newly installed extraction system.
Test Out Your New Extraction System
It’s finally time – test out your new extraction system by turning the power back on at the circuit breaker and pressing the switch/button located either inside a room or outside, depending on the model purchased earlier; if all goes well, then congratulations – job done. If not, then refer to the troubleshooting tips section below for further assistance.
Following these steps will ensure you fit your bathroom extractor fan correctly and safely. If you’re still having trouble, read on for some troubleshooting tips.
Troubleshooting Tips
When fitting an extractor fan in a bathroom, there are some common issues that can arise. One of the most frequent is dampness or poor ventilation. To ensure your fan works properly and efficiently, here are some troubleshooting tips to help you out:
Check Your Ventilation
Checking your ventilation is key when installing an extractor fan in a bathroom. Make sure the air intake vents aren’t blocked by furniture or curtains and that they’re not too close to the ground, as this could lead to condensation forming on walls and windows. Additionally, check for any blockages around the exhaust vent – these should be kept clear so air can escape freely from your room.
Install a Humidity Sensor
Installing a humidity sensor is another great way to prevent dampness in bathrooms with extractor fans installed. This device will detect moisture levels in the air and automatically turn on your fan if it reaches a certain level – helping keep things dryer for longer.
Use an Anti-Mould Paint
Using anti-mould paint on surfaces such as walls and ceilings can also help reduce dampness caused by an extractor fan being used in a bathroom environment. This type of paint contains special additives which stop mould spores from growing, meaning you won’t have to worry about cleaning up after every shower.
Keep the Fan Clean And Maintained
Finally, make sure you keep your extractor fan clean and maintained on a regular basis. This will ensure it runs at its optimal performance all year round. Check for dust build-up inside the unit itself as well as around any filters or grilles; if necessary, replace them too.
Conclusion
With the right tools, some patience, and our step-by-step guide, you can fit a bathroom extractor fan with ease. If you find yourself stuck at any point during the process, don’t forget to refer back to our troubleshooting tips for help. After successfully fitting your new extractor fan, enjoy the fresh air it brings!
Paul is the type of person who never met a problem he couldn’t fix. He can always be found tinkering with something in his house, even if it isn’t broken! His tips and tricks are often shared on our site. He’s the one you call when something breaks because he has been known to improvise fixes for everything from leaky faucets to malfunctioning dryers.