How To Install Bathroom Exhaust Fan In Old House

Installing a bathroom exhaust fan can help to improve air quality and reduce moisture levels, which can help to prevent mold and mildew growth. If your old house doesn't have an exhaust fan, or if the existing fan is not working properly, you can install a new one yourself with a few simple tools and materials.

Materials Needed:

Exhaust fan
Ductwork
Vent cap
Electrical wire
Screws
Caulk

Tools Needed:

Screwdriver
Drill
Saw
Caulk gun

Step 1: Choose a Location for the Fan

The best place to install an exhaust fan is in the ceiling, directly above the shower or bathtub. If you cannot install the fan in the ceiling, you can install it in the wall, but it will be less effective.

Step 2: Cut a Hole for the Fan

Once you have chosen a location for the fan, you need to cut a hole for it. The hole should be the same size as the fan housing. Use a saw to cut the hole, and be careful not to damage the surrounding drywall.

Step 3: Install the Ductwork

The ductwork will connect the fan to the vent cap. The ductwork should be made of metal or plastic, and it should be the same size as the fan outlet. Cut the ductwork to the desired length, and then connect it to the fan outlet and the vent cap.

Step 4: Wire the Fan

The fan must be wired to an electrical outlet. Turn off the power to the outlet before you begin wiring the fan. Connect the black wire from the fan to the black wire from the outlet, the white wire from the fan to the white wire from the outlet, and the green wire from the fan to the ground wire from the outlet.

Step 5: Install the Fan

Once the fan is wired, you can install it in the hole. Insert the fan into the hole, and then secure it with screws. Caulk around the edges of the fan to seal it.

Step 6: Install the Vent Cap

The vent cap will cover the end of the ductwork and protect it from the elements. Install the vent cap on the end of the ductwork, and then secure it with screws.

Step 7: Turn on the Fan

Once the fan is installed, you can turn it on. The fan should run smoothly and quietly. If the fan is not working properly, check the wiring and the ductwork to make sure that they are connected correctly.

Tips:

When choosing an exhaust fan, look for one that has a high CFM rating. CFM stands for cubic feet per minute, and it measures the amount of air that the fan can move.
Install the fan in a location where it will be able to exhaust air from the bathroom quickly and efficiently.
Make sure that the ductwork is the same size as the fan outlet and the vent cap.
Wire the fan to an electrical outlet that is protected by a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter).
Caulk around the edges of the fan to seal it and prevent air leaks.