Who Installs Bathroom Exhaust Fans? Know Who to Call
Call on a pro or DIY to get your bathroom fan spinning again
When your bathroom fan goes out, it’s time to replace it and get air moving again. Now it’s just a matter of finding out who installs bathroom exhaust fans. Luckily, there are a lot of different pros out there who can handle the job, from electricians, roofers, plumbers, general contractors, or handy people. Learn what to consider before you start your search.
Who Can Install a New Bathroom Fan?
If you're at all inclined toward household projects, you might be able to learn how to install a bathroom fan. Straightforward bathroom fan replacements that don’t require any re-wiring, new ductwork, or dealing with rooftop vents—for example, just replacing the fan itself, not the entire system—are definitely possible to tackle DIY-style.
However, if replacing your bathroom fan requires electrical work, ductwork, or anything else that seems more complicated, you may want to consider calling a licensed electrician near you. What’s more, if you are installing a brand new bathroom exhaust fan or system, you should likely work with a plumber or HVAC tech near you to ensure that everything is properly set up and running smoothly.
Pros Who Install New Bathroom Fans
Several different types of pros are likely capable of replacing your bathroom fan—electricians, roofers, plumbers, and HVAC techs, as well as general contractors.
That said, the type of contractor you should call to install a bathroom fan depends on what else you need done and how the vents and other connections for the fan work. For instance, if you need new wiring for the exhaust fan in the bathroom, you will need an electrician to handle the job. Or, if you need new ductwork or fixes in that area, you should call an HVAC technician or plumber in your area to do the job.
If replacing your bathroom fan requires access to the attic, roof vents, or getting up into the ceilings in general, you might want to ask a nearby roofer for an estimate or a referral to the right kind of home repair pro.
Do Electricians or Plumbers Install Bathroom Fans?
Depending on the set-up in your bathroom and your DIY inclinations and capabilities, you may or may not need one or both of the above. Suppose you are installing or replacing an entire bathroom fan exhaust system. In that case, you will likely want to work with a contractor or multiple contractors with electrical expertise to handle things like the wiring.
Your plumber may also be able to install or repair a bathroom fan for you or recommend someone who can do the job. However, a simple fan installation is usually performed by an electrician.
Do Roofers or HVAC Techs Install Bathroom Fans?
If your bathroom exhaust fan vents to the roof or the repair or installation demands access to the attic or ceilings, then you may think you need a roofer if you want to install a new one. However, plumbers may also be able to perform the work if you need to deal with ductwork repairs or replacement as part of the bathroom fan install.
Can I Install a Bathroom Exhaust Fan Myself?
If you’re removing an existing fan and replacing it with a new fan, this can be a DIY job. Installing a bathroom exhaust fan where there wasn’t one before, however, is a bit more complicated. Bathroom exhaust fans need electricity to work, so if there isn’t existing wiring, you may need to hire an electrician.
Fans also need to vent to the outside of your home, so whether you’re installing a wall or ceiling exhaust fan, you’ll need to cut a hole through the exterior to complete the installation process. Any time you cut a hole in the exterior of the home, it’s important to make sure it’s sealed properly to prevent any leaks and eventual water damage.
If you’re handy and have tackled other DIY projects, you might be able to do the entire job on your own. But if there’s any step you’re uncomfortable with, it might be time to reach out to a pro.
Reasons to Replace a Bathroom Fan
You may need a new bathroom fan if your fan doesn’t seem to be working properly, if it is more than 10 years old, or if both factors apply. The lifespan of a bathroom exhaust fan depends on how often it is used, how well it is maintained, and the quality of the fan itself.
Some signs that you may need to replace your bathroom fan are obvious—if your bathroom stays damp for longer than usual after a shower or bath, or towels or bath mats take longer to dry, you may need a new bathroom fan. Lingering odors are another sign that your bathroom fan might be failing—or that it might be time to clean your bath fan.
Moreover, suppose a storm or other catastrophe damaged the roof vents or electrical wiring in your home. In that case, you may want to have your bathroom fan checked out and potentially replaced as well, since exhaust fans are often connected to these utilities.
Finally, replacing a bathroom exhaust fan is a budget-friendly project to add to your bathroom remodel cost estimate. This small upgrade can make a big difference, so don’t forget the small details when thinking of all the bathroom remodel ideas you’d like to bring to life.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Bathroom Fan?
The cost to replace your bathroom fan depends on the type of fan you need. You can get a new basic exhaust fan for $15 to $80, or one with a light for $35 to $420.
For additional features like a fan with a light and heater, the price goes up to $75 to $425. This extra cost can be worthwhile if you don’t like feeling cold when stepping out of the shower. Also, you might upgrade your fan with a motion sensor light, which costs an additional $20 to $120.
If you’re ready to get going on the project, hire an exhaust fan installer near you.
Requirements for Installing a New Bathroom Fan
Be aware of any local regulations, permit requirements, or anything else that might affect your project. Maintaining a working bathroom fan or fans is an important part of keeping your home up to code, and failure to do so could be a problem if you're planning on listing your property or already have it on the market.
Electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, and other contractors in your area should be aware of the requirements for keeping your bathroom exhaust system up to code and ready for potential home inspections—another reason to consider bringing in a professional for a bathroom fan installation project.
Mizuki Hisaka contributed to this piece.