Exhaust Fans: Here's why you need them

Exhaust fans can be noisy and unsightly so it’s understandable that you may question the need to install them in your home.

But they play a huge role in keeping your home clean, safe and comfortable.

The basic function of an exhaust fan is to maintain air circulation and provide proper ventilation.

They work to remove excess moisture, odours and smoke from the air which is why they are generally installed in bathrooms and kitchens (rangehoods in kitchens are a type of exhaust fan).

They can also be beneficial in rooms such as the laundry and garage depending on usage.

But my exhaust fan is so noisy!

One of the most common reasons an exhaust fan is very loud is because it needs cleaning.

Over time, dirt and dust accumulate in the vents which can cause the vent to make loud or vibrating noises.

Turn off the fan and clean it out using a vacuum cleaner. Turn it back on to test whether the sound has diminished.

If the fan is still making a very loud noise it may be because the fan blade or blower wheel is hitting the housing. You will need to turn the fan off and adjust the fan blade with a flat screwdriver until it no longer hits the housing.

What could go wrong if you don’t have exhaust fans?

While people often relate exhaust fans to the air quality and comfort in a home, there are other, more important reasons they should be installed in your home:

1. MOULD/MILDEW PREVENTION

Without proper ventilation, moisture can build up and create issues with mould and mildew on walls and fabrics such as curtains.

Mould isn’t only unpleasant to look at but it can also negatively impact your health so it is important to reduce the risk wherever possible.

2. REDUCING FALSE FIRE ALARMS

Cooking is bound to create a little smoke every now and then.

Which is why it is so important to have an exhaust fan in the kitchen to suck that smoke out of the house and away from your smoke alarm.

Left to build up while you are cooking, this small amount of smoke can cause your smoke alarm to go off when there is no fire – hardly the soundtrack you want to accompany your evening meal.

3. PREVENT ODOUR BUILD UP

This one is more of an aesthetic concern but without proper ventilation, odours from cooking can build up in fabrics such as curtains and upholstered furniture.

Once a smell gets into fabric, it can be very difficult and time consuming to get out.

*Please keep in mind that all exhaust fans must be installed by a professional electrician.