As a manufacturer of ventilation products, you might expect us to automatically say “yes” to a bathroom exhaust fan upgrade. But before we jump to conclusions, let’s explore why upgrading your bathroom exhaust fan could be a smart move—and when it might not be necessary.
Why Consider Upgrading Your Bathroom Exhaust Fan?
There are typically two main reasons to upgrade:
1. Your current exhaust fan has stopped working.
2. Your current fan is underperforming—too loud, too weak, or just outdated.
Let’s take a closer look at both scenarios.
Your Exhaust Fan No Longer Works
If your existing fan is no longer operational, this is a great opportunity to decide whether a simple replacement is enough—or if it’s time to upgrade.
Here are some questions to ask:
Did the old fan meet your needs?
If so, a one-to-one replacement might do the trick.Is an upgrade worth the cost?
Sometimes, for just a bit more, you can get a fan that’s quieter, more energy efficient, or has additional features.Will installation require changes?
Upgrading might mean enlarging or reducing the size of the opening in the ceiling or wall. Consider whether you're comfortable with DIY or if hiring a professional makes more sense. Labor for replacing a fan typically runs between $250–$400, depending on complexity—not including the cost of the fan itself.Your Fan Isn't Performing Like It Should
Maybe your fan is technically working, but it’s not working well. Here’s how to diagnose and decide:
Noise Level
If your fan sounds like a jet engine, it may be time for a quieter model. Fan noise is measured in sones:0.5 sone or lower – Nearly silent
1.0–2.0 sones – Quiet operation
3.0–4.0 sones – Noticeable, like a conversation
4.0+ sones – Loud and potentially disruptive
Ventilation Power
If your mirror constantly fogs up or you're seeing mold or mildew, chances are your current fan isn’t providing enough airflow. Fan strength is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). A general rule of thumb is 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space. So, a 10' x 10' bathroom needs at least a 100 CFM fan. But that’s just a starting point. You may need more power (up to 20% more) depending on:• How frequently the shower is used (how many people utilize it)
• Water temperature (more steam = more ventilation needed)
• Local humidity levels
A good solution to ensure proper ventilation is a humidity-sensing fan, which turns on and off automatically based on the room’s humidity.
Energy Efficiency
Most bathroom fans don’t consume a lot of power, so energy savings alone may not justify an upgrade. But if you're replacing the fan anyway, it’s smart to look for ENERGY STAR®-certified models, which offer efficient performance with lower long-term energy use.So, Is a Bathroom Exhaust Fan Upgrade Worth It?
In many cases, yes. Whether your current fan has stopped operating, is too loud, or is just not cutting it in terms of ventilation, an upgrading can provide:
• A quieter, more comfortable bathroom
• Better protection against mold and mildew
• Smarter energy use and potentially lower bills
• A more automated and convenient user experience
Now that you have all the information, it might be the perfect time to go beyond a basic replacement. To learn more about Air King exhaust fans, visit airkinglimited.com. Also read through our other blog posts on CFM and sones.
