How Much Does It Cost To Install Bathroom Fan?

If your bathroom does not already have an exhaust fan, you might want to consider installing one. These bathroom fans work to remove the moisture from the air, keeping your bathroom smelling nice and decreasing your chances of it growing nasty mold. However, if you are thinking about installing a bathroom fan, you might have a few questions about how must this would cost. Don't worry, we have done our research and are here to give you all of the information that you will need.

If you are replacing a bathroom fan, you can expect to spend an average of $375 in order to complete your project. If you are installing an entirely new fan system into a bathroom, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 - $4,000.

There are many factors involved in the cost of installing a new bathroom fan. We'll discuss those factors in more detail as well as address other common questions when it comes to the bathroom fan. So be sure to keep reading.

A handyman installing new bath vent fan, ventilation system in the house bathroom, How Much Does It Cost To Install Bathroom Fan?

The Cost Of Installing A Bathroom Fan

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Man's hands removing air duct cover from ceiling

The national average for the cost of a bathroom fan installation is $375, however, this cost depends on a number of things.

Quality

If you choose to purchase an extremely cheap fan, you will not end up spending quite that much money. A very simple fan will likely just include an exhaust to filter the air.

Click here to see this simple bathroom fan on Amazon.

If you choose to purchase an extremely expensive fan, you will likely end up spending more than $375. An expensive fan will include an exhaust, lights, and even energy efficiency add-ons. In addition to the cost of the fan, you will also have to consider the cost of the labor as well as a few other factors. 

Click here to see this bathroom fan on Amazon.

Professional Vs. DIY

Unless you are extremely handy, you will probably need to hire an electrician in order to install your bathroom fan. The price of labor for an electrician differs from city-to-city, however, the average electrician charges anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour. Typically, it takes two to four hours to install a new fan. This also depends on how intense the job is.

If you are just replacing an old fan and there is already wiring installed, the job will not take long at all. If you are adding a fan to a bathroom that previously did not have a fan, you will need to have new wiring installed, which can be a lengthy process and will cost you more money. 

Pre-Existing Location Vs. New Location

When you are installing a new fan to a bathroom that previously did not have a fan, you will have to expect to spend a much larger sum of money. In this situation, you will have to install ductwork. The cost of this will depend on the size of your home.

If you have a smaller home, you will probably only pay a couple of hundred dollars. If you have a larger home, you could pay over $4,000 to install ductwork. 

Placement

In addition, the placement of the installation also plays a role in how much it will cost. If you choose to install your new fan through the roof, it will cost $2 to $3 per foot. If you choose to install your fan through the wall, it will typically cost around $50. 

Now that you have a basic understanding of how much it might cost you to install your new bathroom fan, you might have a few additional questions. Keep reading to find out more information on the installation of a new bathroom fan. 

Can You Install A Bathroom Fan Yourself?

Handyman installing new bath vent fan

In short, theoretically, someone could install their own bathroom fan. However, if you do not have an understanding of electrical work and maintenance, you should hire someone to do it for you.

If you improperly install a bathroom fan, you run major risks of starting an electrical fire. Safety should always come first, so if you are planning to do this project and do not have an understanding of electricity, hire someone to help you out! 

Is It Difficult To Replace A Bathroom Fan?

If you are just planning to replace an old bathroom fan with a newer fan, the job will be much simpler than it would be if you were installing a totally new system to your bathroom. The electricity is already wired to the old fan. You will only need to remove the old fan and install the new one. A new project would require the installation of the electricity as well. Although this project may sound simple, you will still want to hire a professional for help. 

How Long Does A Bathroom Fan Last?

The average bathroom fan will last around 10 years, however, there are things that you can do in order to extend the life of it. Running your bathroom fan regularly can help to increase its lifespan. If you never turn it on, the motor will slow down sooner, and the fan will not last as long as it would if you run it regularly.

In addition, routine cleaning will help keep your fan in top-notch shape. To clean your fan, you should first wipe it down with a soft dust cloth to remove any loose dirt and dust. You should then take a damp wet cloth and wipe down the vent again. You should also take apart the fan and clean the inside. Be careful not to use any chemicals on this for cleaning. You should only use warm water, and for excessive grime, vinegar.

Click here to see these microfiber cleaning cloths on Amazon.

By removing the gunk and grime that grows on your bathroom fan, you are helping to increase the lifespan of it. You should clean your bathroom fan at least once a year. Clean it more if you notice an obvious amount of dirt or dust growing on it. 

How Do You Know When To Replace A Bathroom Fan?

Dusty built-in exhaust fan

There are a few different signs that may tell you it is time to replace your bathroom fan: 

Noise

Most fans make a bit of noise when you run them, however, if you notice that the noise of your fan has changed, it is probably time for a replacement. Your fan should not be overly loud. This is a sign that the motor is about to die. 

Foul Smells

If your bathroom fan does not filter pesky smells, then it probably is not working the way it should be. Your fan should help to filter the normal stinky smells of a bathroom. If these smells are persistent and constant, replace your bathroom fan. 

Mold

If your bathroom is growing mold at an unusually quick rate, it is probably because your bathroom fan is not working properly. Most people do not realize that bathroom fans are not only to keep to room smelling nice but also to decrease the moisture and humidity, ensuring that mold does not grow inside your bathroom. If you are noticing an increase in mold, it is time to replace your bathroom fan. 

Lifespan

As a rule of thumb, you should replace your bathroom fan every ten years. These models do age with time and the longer you own one, the less likely it is to be effective. 

In Closing

In the end, it is clear that there are many different components that go into replacing or installing a bathroom fan. Our biggest advice to you is to hire an electrician to ensure that you are doing the job safely. As mentioned, the cost of this job differs from situation-to-situation, so please take this information into consideration before you begin your job.

As always, be safe and we hope that this article gave you the guidance that you need to complete your bathroom fan installation project! 

If you want to know more about the cost of bathroom maintenance, we think you'll enjoy these articles:

How Much Does It Cost To Renovate A Bathroom?

How Much Does It Cost To Replace The Bathroom Sink?

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