Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans with Light and Heater- Buying Guide

The process of buying the best 3 in 1 unit with regards to the exhaust fan is somewhat tricky.

So, how do you select the right one? What features to look for?

Here are some factors that you should consider when you go about your search.

Air Flow Capacity (CFM)

Always make sure your selected exhaust fan has the required airflow capacity (called CFM) to remove the bathroom moisture effectively.

So, what is CFM?

CFM refers to how much air an exhaust fan can move at the rate. It’s the ability of a bath exhaust fan to circulate air in cubic feet per minute (CFM).

The higher the CFM rating of an exhaust fan, the more air it can move.

So, do I go for the exhaust fan with the highest CFM rating?

Not necessarily.

Low CFM exhaust fan is less powerful and ideal for smaller bathrooms. On the other hand, venting fan with higher CFMs can move more air, more powerful, and works better for larger bathroom areas. So, based on your bathroom space, select the exhaust fan with the right CFM that will work efficiently in your bath spaces.

For small bathrooms, a CFM rating of 50 to 60 is enough, while 110 or above will work fine for medium-sized bathrooms. If you have a larger bathroom, opt for an exhaust fan with 150 CFM rating or above.

Noise level (sones)

Bath exhaust fan noise level is rated in sones. A bathroom fan with a high sone rating generates much noise that no one would like to use it even though it gets the job done.

If you’re looking for a quiet bathroom exhaust fan with heater and light that will do its job without disrupting the peace in mind, go for a model with a noise level of 2 sones or under. 3 or 3.5 sones ratings generate more noise.

Models with a sone rating of 4 or more may produce a lot of noise. An exhaust fan with 0.5 to 1.2 sonesis exceptionally quiet even when it runs in full swing.

So make sure you’re satisfied with the sones rating of the fan you intend to buy.

Energy consumption/ Energy star rating

Energy efficiency is a top consideration when you shop for a toilet exhaust fan, heater and light combo. An energy-efficient model consumes 70% less power than conventional non-energy star models. It certainly contributes to low energy consumption and low electric bills.

Select a unit that carries the energy-star label to get the most bang for your money.

Lighting options

Pay attention to the type of lighting (Incandescent, LED, or fluorescent) that comes with the 3 in 1 combo. Obviously, LED bulbs are preferable as they are energy efficient. So, don’t forget to check what type of lighting the bath fan, heater and light combo takes. Additionally, having a nightlight option will offer you more flexibility with your lighting.

Controls

It’s convenient to have a separate switch for controlling all the three functions of 3 in 1 exhaust fan. This switch will allow you to use the functions separately or all-together.

Installation

Bath exhaust fan, heater, light combo can be wall- or ceiling mounted. Consider how easy it is to install.

It’s convenient if the unit comes with a well-detailed installation guide or video. If you plan to install the unit directly above the shower or bathtub, make sure the unit is rated for that installation. Otherwise, it may cause electrocution.