Replacing an existing fan is a relatively simple process, and hiring a professional to do the work for you will cost just $200 on average. You could pay as little as $150 if you choose a budget-friendly fan or as much as $500 if you choose a high-end one with added features.
A new bathroom fan installation costs considerably more than a simple replacement. If you just need an old one replaced, expect to pay for the fan cost and $100 to $400 in labor. For brand new fans, you'll need to account for the fan cost and $200 to $800 in labor.
While the total cost of a bathroom fan installation is fully dependent on the work required, average quotes usually sit between the price range of $520 to $645 plus GST for basic replacements.
It's particularly important to rely on professional electricians when installing a bathroom exhaust fan because the high moisture levels in bathrooms require precise wiring to avoid short circuits and water intrusion. Plus, in many cities, bathroom exhaust fan installations need to meet local building codes.
Even if you have fans already set up, it's important to keep in mind that they won't last forever. Typically, bathroom exhaust fans have a lifespan of about 10 years, provided they receive proper care and maintenance.
You might be surprised to learn that installing or replacing a bathroom exhaust fan is a moderately easy DIY project. All you need are the right tools, basic electrical and carpentry skills, and a little patience.
It really depends on your skills and experience, but typically, replacing a bathroom fan is a long process. It requires electrical knowledge and some general DIY-know-how, so be sure not to underestimate the task. Generally, it will take about two hours to remove the fan and another two or three to replace it.
All bath fan installation Local Pros are licensed electricians who can handle any electrical work required for your bathroom fan replacement, installation or repair job.
Plumbers. Although rare, some plumbers will replace existing bathroom vent fans. However, they usually do not handle bathroom fan installation. If you have an existing fan and are already making other upgrades to your bath, ask your plumber if they can replace it.
A handyperson or general contractor may be able to replace a bathroom exhaust fan, but they'll need to be proficient with HVAC and electrical wiring. This job may seem simple, but any project that requires the handling of electrical wiring or ductwork should be completed by someone familiar with both.
It typically takes 1-2 hours to install a new fan in a standard room height if one needs to be removed first. Higher ceilings require more time.
– An average small bathroom fan, when running continuously for 24 hours, typically consumes around 5 to 10 watts of electricity. – To put this in perspective, a standard incandescent light bulb (60 watts) consumes roughly 5 times more energy per hour than a small bathroom fan.
Labor costs for replacements range from $150 up to $250, while labor for an installation ranges from $250 to $500. Your labor cost will vary for new installations based on how complicated the job is.
Can you replace a bathroom fan without an electrician? Most homeowners adept at replacing ceiling lights or outlets should be able to replace a bathroom fan without an electrician. Wiring is usually a straightforward one-for-one match from the old fan to the new fan.
A bathroom exhaust fan has a ten-year lifespan on average. It's a good idea to buy a new one if you can't recall when it was last replaced or you're unsure of its age.
Bathroom fan installation requires outside ventilation. If the bathroom exhaust fan or venting fan isn't accessible through an attic, you'll need to vent through a sidewall of your house. If you're venting a bathroom fan through an external sidewall, then you'll need a wall mounted bathroom exhaust fan.
The bathroom exhaust fan can be dangerous if you use it excessively. If the air is not properly ventilated, it can lead to an explosion. The fumes from the combustion process can be explosive, so proper ventilation is necessary. Bathroom exhaust fans should be used only when needed.
Like any appliance, your bathroom exhaust fan requires regular care and maintenance for a long life. Routine cleaning is simple and should be performed at least once a year.
Replacing a fan with proper wiring or ductwork can take less than an hour, while wiring and duct upgrades may take a few hours depending on their complexity and accessibility. A completely new installation may take an entire day or longer.