Bathroom Ventilation: Tips for a Mould-Free Space

Bathrooms in the UK require a window or a mechanical ventilation system with at least 15 l/s extraction. Bathroom ventilation is needed as mould and mildew can cause serious harm and damage to your space. However, most homeowners do not know how or what to choose to improve the bathroom’s air quality. This will be a complete guide to help you understand types of ventilation, its benefits, and its maintenance.

Bathroom Ventilation Benefits:

No Property Damage:

The lack of ventilating a bathroom can cause mould spores to build up. If not taken care of, mould can penetrate the grout and the walls causing damage to the tiles, sink, or shower. Usually, it is possible to get rid of mould. However, if the problem keeps reappearing, it is the cause of poor ventilation in your bathroom. Effective bathroom ventilation minimizes property damage risk, reducing or eliminating the need for costly repairs and cleaning.

 mould on surfaces

Bathroom Ventilation and Health

Since poor ventilation causes humidity buildup and mould, some individuals can be allergic or even sensitive to this prevailing issue. Bathroom ventilation improves air quality, making the bathroom comfortable to use. In addition to creating a fresher and healthier environment, while protecting from mould poisoning and respiratory issues.

Value for Cost:

Installing a bathroom air vent will enhance the property’s appeal to future buyers. Also, when complying with building regulations, the home’s longevity increases. The quality of the construction aligns with preventing moisture damage in the building structure, ensuring that insulations, ceilings, and walls remain protected over the years.

the increase of the house property with bathroom ventilation

Bathroom Ventilation Types:

In the UK, you have access to various ventilation types:

Natural Ventilation:

Windows:

Natural ventilation occurs when multiple windows in the house are opened daily, allowing airflow to remove bathroom humidity. Although it is impossible to install a window where a bathroom does not have an external wall.

Trickle Vents:

These discreet window vents facilitate continuous airflow in and out of the bathroom, operating without the need for electricity or mechanical components.

natural ventilation by opening a window

Bathroom Ventilation Fans (mechanical):

Axial Extractor Fans:

These are usually easy to install and designed to vent directly outside the wall. Axial extractor fans are commonly used in small bathrooms.

Inline extractor fan:

Designed to be mounted in the ceiling above the bathroom and installed with ductwork. These are ideal for larger bathrooms, as their bigger size and powerful motor give the best possible extraction. However, you need to have ceiling and loft space to install the ductwork.

Centrifugal Extractor Fans:

They can be wall or ceiling-mounted and are designed to duct over more distances since they generate bigger pressure. Centrifugal extractor fans are great for bathrooms with no external walls making it possible to have a much longer ductwork and still be effective. 

Ceiling-mounted extractor fan:

Ceiling extractor fans are recessed inside a ceiling void, and exhausted through ductwork outside the house. They are ideal for when mounting on the wall is not feasible.

Wall-mounted Fans:

They are the most common extractor fans, easy to equip, and are attached directly to an exterior wall. They might not eject moisture as well as Axial and other extractor fans. However, they can be effective in small or medium-sized bathrooms.

Decorative Extractor fans:

They often come in sleek, covered, and aesthetically pleasing designs. They can be bathroom ventilation fans with light fixtures, LED lights, motion sensors, or Bluetooth speakers built in to play music. (some versions of the mentioned extractor fans can have some innovative or decorative options as well)

Eco-friendly ventilation:

Eco-friendly air ventilation options increased with the expansion of technology. Solar-powered ventilation fans are a great option for homeowners seeking to use solar panels to save energy. Other energy-efficient fans are heat-recovery ventilation fans. They are systems that extract the air in the bathroom and recover the heat before venting outside. Moreover, extractor fans equipped with humidity sensors only turn on when humidity levels reach a certain number and automatically turn off, saving energy.

How to Choose a Bathroom Ventilation System

Before you pay for your bathroom ventilation fan, consider checking these factors:

  • Bathroom Size: before installing a ventilation fan, it is important to check a fan recommended for the amount of space in your bathroom, the humidity levels of the area you live in, and whether there are exterior walls or a loft.
  • Noise Levels: the noise level of fans is measured by decibels (Db). ensure that the noise levels of your extractor fan correlate with your preferences.
  • Energy Efficiency: pick the proper ventilation system and save on electricity bills. Choose the fans operated with timers, humidity, light, or infrared sensors. Moreover, ensure the fan’s extraction rate is adequate and prevents cold air from entering the bathroom. In the case of wanting to manually control fans, install a fan isolator.
an extractor decorative LED fan by AV Modern Bathrooms

How to Clean a Bathroom Extractor Fan:


Clean bathroom fans at least every six months to prevent dust and mildew from accumulating in the ducting, which can cause mold and reduce ventilation efficiency. First, turn off the power of your fan/bathroom. If your fan has a cover, gently remove it then wash it in the sink with warm soapy water and a scrub. After cleaning, place the fan on a microfiber cloth to dry. Disconnect the fan (based on its installation method) and use a brush or vacuum to remove any excess dust. Do not forget to dust your ducting, a vacuum cleaner is the easiest way. You can apply silicone spray over the duct and the fan’s blades to prevent dust build-up. Finally, fasten it back in its housing. It is easier to clean the ducting area if you install ventilation trims around your air vents.

old unclean bathroom extractor fan

FAQs

How do you wire a bathroom extractor fan?

According to UK building regulations, to wire a bathroom extractor fan you need to hire an electrician. Installing electrical wiring across bathroom zones can be very dangerous. verify with a professional or a renovator, not only for safety, but to ensure the quality of the work.

How do you fit an extractor fan in a bathroom?

Depending on the bathroom’s size determining the size and type of bathroom fan, make sure to drill a hole (if it is direct) the size of the ducting and the extractor air vent. For ducting work in your loft or installing a more powerful version, it is advisable to hire a professional renovator. Our fitters at AV Modern Bathrooms value your time,  privacy, and budget. We offer tailored ventilation system installations suited to your home, as well as comprehensive modern bathroom renovations starting from £3600. Request a free quote today to secure the best renovation value on the market!

Ready To Start With AV Modern Bathroom?

Are you ready to transform your bathroom into a stunning, functional sanctuary? At AV Modern Bathroom, we specialize in creating beautiful, high-quality bathroom renovations tailored to your unique needs and style.