Ceiling Exhaust Fans

Before installing a ceiling exhaust fan, you’ll need to consider the airflow capacity required to adequately ventilate your room. You’ll also need to consider the hole size you’ll need to be cut into your ceiling, and whether it needs to connect to existing duct work.

Once you’ve sorted these out, it’s time to install:

1. Mark the ceiling position – ensure the fan will fit in the roof cavity of your selected position.
2. Cut out the ceiling – drill a 10mm hole in the marked area and cut around the outline with a hacksaw blade.
3. Install a powerpoint – you’ll need a qualified electrician to install a powerpoint in your ceiling cavity near the fan’s position.
4. Fit the fan into the ceiling cavity – plug the fan in first, then slowly push the fan into place so the spring clips on the side lock it into place.

Your fan will need to comply with Australian Standards and have a sufficient flow rate for your room. If this seems like more work than you’re cut out for, Metropolitan Electrical Contractors can do the entire installation process for you.

Generally speaking, installing a ceiling fan on a wall is not recommended. The bearings are not designed for vertical alignment and will likely wear out faster than if it was mounted horizontally on the ceiling.

Wearing out the bearings means your exhaust fan will become noisier, much faster. Some ceiling fans might even rub against the plastic body if gravity is not holding the fan in the correct position. These fans will be noisy right from the get go.

That said, there are many dual exhaust fans on the market now that are designed to be mounted on both the ceiling and the wall.

Your exhaust fan should be cleaned at least once every 6 months. Regular cleaning ensures your exhaust fan is in good working order and effectively removes moisture from the air. When it isn’t working properly, moisture can build up and your bathroom becomes susceptible to mould!

Before you attempt cleaning your fan, you’ll want to turn it off at the circuit breaker. Firstly, you’ll want to remove the vent cover and clean this with soapy water and leave it to air dry.

Next get rid of the dust on the exhaust fan with a vacuum – keep a light touch so you don’t break any fan components!

Your fan will likely still be dirty after you’ve vacuumed it. Go in with a damp cloth to remove the remaining grime. You could even disassemble the fan to get into all the components. With everything clean, all that’s left is to reassemble the fan and turn it back on!

Not necessarily. Most ceiling exhaust fans are ducted to the outside, but if your roof space is well ventilated you can just have the air directed there. Some states in Australia require your exhaust fans to be ducted to the external environment as well.

If you are unsure about whether your exhaust fan needs to be ducted, contact Metropolitan Electrical Contractors and we can discuss the best options for your home.