How To Wire A Bathroom Exhaust Fan With Light

How to Wire a Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light

Maintaining proper ventilation in your bathroom is essential for preventing moisture buildup, mold growth, and unpleasant odors. An exhaust fan with light is a practical solution that offers both ventilation and illumination. Here's a detailed guide on how to wire one yourself:

Materials Required:

Exhaust fan with light fixture
Electrical wires (14-gauge for power, 18-gauge for fixture)
Wire connectors
Electrical tape
Phillips-head screwdriver
Stud finder
Caulk gun and bathroom caulk

Step 1: Safety First

Before starting any electrical work, it's crucial to turn off the circuit breaker or fuse that controls your bathroom. This will ensure your safety by preventing electric shock.

Step 2: Choose a Suitable Location

Determine the ideal location for your exhaust fan. It should be positioned near the shower or other areas where moisture is likely to accumulate. Use a stud finder to locate a suitable joist for mounting the fan.

Step 3: Install the Mounting Bracket

Affix the mounting bracket included with the exhaust fan to the chosen stud. Use the provided screws and ensure it's securely attached. This bracket will support the weight of the fan and light fixture.

Step 4: Run the Electrical Wires

From your electrical panel, run a 14-gauge electrical wire to the bathroom ceiling electrical box. Connect this wire to the "Line" or "Power" terminals in the electrical box. Also, run an 18-gauge electrical wire from the ceiling electrical box to the location of the exhaust fan.

Step 5: Connect the Power Wires

Use wire connectors to connect the black wire from the 14-gauge electrical wire (coming from the panel) to the black wire of the exhaust fan. Similarly, connect the white wires together and the copper or green ground wires together.

Step 6: Connect the Fixture Wires

Connect the black wire from the 18-gauge electrical wire (going to the light fixture) to the black wire of the exhaust fan light. Connect the white wires and ground wires in the same manner as before.

Step 7: Secure the Wiring

Carefully tuck all electrical wires into the electrical box and secure them using electrical tape. Ensure that no bare wires are exposed.

Step 8: Mount the Exhaust Fan

Hang the exhaust fan onto the mounting bracket and secure it firmly with the provided screws. Be cautious not to overtighten.

Step 9: Seal Around the Fan

Apply a generous bead of bathroom caulk around the edges of the exhaust fan to seal any gaps and prevent moisture from entering the ceiling. Allow the caulk to cure thoroughly before turning on the fan.

Step 10: Turn on the Power

Once the caulk is dry, turn on the circuit breaker or fuse that you turned off earlier. Your bathroom exhaust fan with light should now be operational.