How to Vent a Basement Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Installing and venting a basement bathroom exhaust fan will be beneficial for your home and your health.
The primary purpose of having a bathroom exhaust fan is to remove unwanted moisture from your bathroom or basement. But did you know that these fans can also improve the quality of your air and your health? There are many benefits commonly associated with bathroom exhaust fans. First, since they are excellent sources of ventilation, they help to improve overall air quality. This results in a healthier environment for you and your family members. These types of fans also help to stave off the harmful effects of humidity such as mold and mildew. Bathroom exhaust fans are fantastic tools for odor control as well.
Installation
Installing the right type of basement bathroom exhaust fan is critical. This isn't a project for beginners since the process involves busting through a roof or exterior wall and removing drywall. The installation process starts with locating a suitable area to cut through the outside wall. Keep in mind that the best location is one that has the least amount of derivations from straight lines. Begin by drilling a small pilot hole through the wall and then cut the large hole from the outside based on the exit point of the pilot hole. You can then connect your fan to the ductwork.
Venting
When a bathroom exhaust fan is installed in the basement, finding a place to run a vent to is tricky. This is because most of your basement lies below grade. Getting into your attic is harder, too, since the ceiling of your basement is the first floor of your home. Thus, the best alternative is to run venting through the floor joist space to the exterior wall. This space is about 12-inches above grade and allows for a clean, easy exit.
Warning
Most of us clean our bathrooms with a host of toxic chemicals that can have negative effects on our health. Bathroom exhaust fans can help lessen the chances of you or your loved ones getting sick. This is an especially important factor to consider if there are small children or elderly people living in your home.
Pollutants and stale air can easily cause health issues. Some factors that create a bad air environment include mildew, mold, cleaning materials, dust and bacteria. Luckily, bathroom exhaust fans can help with all of this. From safety and health to odor control to humidity reduction, there are many reasons to install a bathroom exhaust fan. Be sure to contact an HVAC professional if you have further questions regarding your exhaust fan.
References
Tips
- If your basement has a drywall ceiling, you may need to remove part of the ceiling to install the pipe. Drop ceilings are preferred since the panels are easily removed and reinstalled.
Writer Bio
Justine Harrington is a writer and editor based in Austin, Texas by way of Oklahoma. Find out more at www.justineharrington.com
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