A Guide To Extractor Fans
Do we have to install one?
The answer varies depending on your situation. As a rule, if you are building a new house or renovating, then you must comply with current building regulations and standards for ventilation. There are many types of home extractor fans available on the market today. We can assist with recommendations for your specific requirements.
What does an extractor fan do?
There are many different types of extractor fans, but they all pretty much work in the same way. Extractor fans work by using a motor to power an impeller that spins at high speed and blows air outwards, which creates a vacuum effect. This means that any particles or moisture will be pulled out of the air into the fan itself, so it can then be released outside through vents.
They’re usually located near kitchen appliances, bathrooms, washing machines, sinks, or other areas where there’s excess moisture due to steam from showering or cooking food etc. How they work depends on which fan you get and how it is installed or fitted.
Let the air in to minimise bathroom condensation! 
Bathrooms are one of the most humid rooms in your home and need a decent extractor fan to expel moisture. 3 important factors that need to be met in order for a bathroom fan to function at an optimum level:
- You must ensure that air can be drawn into your bathroom to replace the air being sucked out. You can do this by either cracking a window or door or, ideally, your bathroom door should have a minimum 10mm cut under to create enough of a gap to allow the air through.
- Ideally this moisture should be vented outside
- The airflow of the fresh air (measured in cubic feet per minute or CFM) must be correct
Do extractor fans need to vent outside?
Yes, it is always a good idea to have your extractor fan vent outside. Remember the purpose of an extractor is to remove moisture and humidity from the air. If you simply deposit it in another room or the roof space, you may be just moving the problem to another area. This could result in mould and damp building up.
