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Are Extractor and Exhaust Fans the Same

Are Extractor and Exhaust Fans the Same

If you are in the process of finding a replacement fan for your bathroom or kitchen, you may see products which are labelled as either exhaust or extractor fans.  When similar products have different names, it can be confusing to know whether they are suitable for your needs.

What is an Extractor Fan

An extractor fan is quite simply a device which is used to improve the ventilation of a room.  Extractor fans are usually installed in kitchens and bathrooms and draw moisture laden air out of the room and vent it outdoors.  This reduces the level of humidity and removes cooking smells to stop them permeating around your home where they can cause condensation, damp, and mould.

An extractor fan is usually mounted on an exterior wall or ceiling opposite the door of a room so that air is drawn into the room.  This makes the fan more work more effectively at both removing moisture from the whole room and also preventing that moisture escaping into the rest of the home.

What is an Exhaust Fan

Although in some countries, the terms exhaust and extractor fans are typically used interchangeably, there is actually a difference between the two.  In the UK, exhaust fans are typically larger units which are designed for use in commercial or industrial settings.  Exhaust fans work in the same way as an extractor fan in that they draw air out of a space and vent it to the exterior, however large exhaust fans are not suitable for home use.

Choosing the right extractor fan

A wide variety of extractor fans are available and are designed to be used in a wide range of domestic settings.  Building regulations specify the correct air flow for rooms of different sizes, and it is important to ensure that the extractor fan that you choose is suitable for where it will be used.

There are also different designs of fans.  Some use a traditional fan to draw air through, whereas others use an impeller design which can be easier to clean.  Filterless fans require less maintenance and are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.  Some fans can be mounted on walls or ceilings.

Modern extractor fans such as the Cyclone 8 feature energy efficient designs that use less power and include features such as vapour sensors which intelligently control the power level of the fan to increase air flow when needed.  This means less chance for condensation to form.

Find out more

Our local ventilation specialists cover the whole of the UK and can provide you with help to find out about the right type of extractor fan for your needs.  Book your free home survey today, and your local specialist will visit your property, identify the key causes of condensation, and give you advice about how you can improve your indoor air quality and prevent condensation for good.

Simply enter your postcode in the form below to find help.

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  • check Assess any condensation, damp or mould problems in your property
  • check Take readings of the relative humidity levels
  • check Identify any underlying problems and make recommendations for a permanent solution

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