How long do bathroom exhaust fans last?
Most bathroom exhaust fans last 8 to 15 years. Exhaust fans are commonly given about 8 to 15 years; the motor bearings are what wear.
A bathroom fan that does not move air lets moisture linger, which feeds mold. It is cheap to clean and cheap to replace, and it is one of the least-noticed parts of a house.
Typical lifespan: 8 to 15 years
Exhaust fans are commonly given about 8 to 15 years; the motor bearings are what wear.
Bathroom exhaust fan maintenance checklist by season
Spring
Remove the cover, wash it and vacuum dust from the fan and housing. Test the airflow by holding a square of toilet tissue to the grille; it should hold.
Summer
Run the fan during and for about 20 minutes after showers, or as the manual advises, in humid weather. Check that the outdoor vent flap opens and has no nest.
Fall
Check the duct for kinks and the connection for gaps in the attic, where a disconnected duct leaves moist air in the attic. Check that it is insulated in cold climates.
Winter
Look for condensation or frost around the vent and ceiling. A fan that blows weakly in cold weather may have a stuck damper.
Signs your bathroom exhaust fan needs replacing
- The fan is noisy, rattles or grinds even after cleaning.
- The mirror stays fogged long after a shower, or you see mold on the ceiling.
- The tissue test fails, meaning weak airflow.
- The damper does not close and cold air drops in, or the vent is disconnected.
Typical bathroom exhaust fan warranty
A limited warranty is often one to three years on parts, and some premium or ENERGY STAR models carry five years or more. Terms vary.
An appliance warranty tracker keeps your bathroom exhaust fan's coverage dates and receipt in one place.
What to keep for a bathroom exhaust fan
- The receipt and electrician invoice
- Model number, often on a label inside the housing behind the grille
- The airflow rating in cubic feet per minute
- The duct size
Common questions
How long do bathroom exhaust fans last?
Most bathroom exhaust fans last 8 to 15 years. Exhaust fans are commonly given about 8 to 15 years; the motor bearings are what wear.
How long should I run the bathroom fan after a shower?
A common guideline is about 20 minutes, or as the fan's manual says. The goal is to remove moisture so the EPA's target of low indoor humidity is met.
Does an exhaust fan need to vent outside?
Yes. Venting into an attic or ceiling space moves moisture where it can cause mold and damage. It should go through a duct to the outdoors.
How do I maintain a bathroom exhaust fan?
Follow your manual first. Each season: spring, remove the cover, wash it and vacuum dust from the fan and housing. Test the airflow by holding a square of toilet tissue to the grille; it should hold. Fall, check the duct for kinks and the connection for gaps in the attic, where a disconnected duct leaves moist air in the attic. Check that it is insulated in cold climates.