We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Broan-NuTone 678 Ventilation Fan and Light Combo for Bathroom and Home, 100 Watts, 50 CFM,White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,113
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Additional Features

Most important from
10081 reviews

Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Works like a charm, though a bigger size might be better for very steamy showers.
Noise Level (Sones)
Bright, quieter than most, and powerful.
Additional Features
Bright, quieter than most, and powerful.
Installation Type
The installation was a breeze, with concise and helpful instructions.

The Broan-NuTone 678 Ventilation Fan and Light Combo is designed for small to medium-sized bathrooms up to 45 square feet. With an airflow capacity of 50 CFM, it effectively ventilates smaller rooms but may not be sufficient for larger spaces. At 2.5 sones, the noise level is moderate, meaning it isn't the quietest option available but should be tolerable for most users.

The fan includes a bright 100-watt light (bulb not included), which can help brighten your bathroom, and the shatter-resistant light diffusing lens adds durability. However, it uses incandescent lighting, which is less energy-efficient compared to modern LED options. Installation is made easier for DIY enthusiasts with included polymeric duct connectors and a plug-in motor, but professional installation might still be preferred by some users.

The unit has a simple, white polymeric grille that blends with most bathroom decors, but some may find it lacks the aesthetic appeal of more modern designs. This product is best suited for users looking for a reliable, moderately quiet ventilation fan and light combo for a small bathroom or similar space.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,113
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Additional Features

Most important from
10081 reviews

Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Works like a charm, though a bigger size might be better for very steamy showers.
Noise Level (Sones)
Bright, quieter than most, and powerful.
Additional Features
Bright, quieter than most, and powerful.
Installation Type
The installation was a breeze, with concise and helpful instructions.
#2

Panasonic FV-0511VF1 WhisperFit DC Fan 50-80-110 CFM Retrofit Bathroom Exhaust Fan - Quiet Energy Star-Certified Energy-Saving Bathroom Ceiling Fan

Rating
10.0
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
1210 reviews

Airflow Capacity (CFM)
The adjustable CFM settings allow for customization to suit different bathroom sizes, ensuring excellent ventilation without moisture buildup.
Noise Level (Sones)
This fan operates incredibly quietly, even at its highest setting, making it a perfect choice for those who value a peaceful bathroom environment.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a notable feature, with the DC motor contributing to lower energy costs over time.
Additional Features
The build quality is top-notch, giving the impression of a durable product that will last for years.
Installation Type
The Panasonic FV-0511VF1 WhisperFit DC Fan excels in ease of installation, quiet operation, and effective ventilation, even in challenging setups like sloped ceilings.

The Panasonic FV-0511VF1 WhisperFit DC Fan is a solid choice for anyone looking to improve ventilation in their bathroom. One of its standout features is the adjustable airflow selector that lets you choose between 50, 80, or 110 CFM, making it versatile enough for various bathroom sizes. With a noise level of just 25 dB, it operates quietly, which is a significant advantage if you prefer a peaceful environment.

Energy efficiency is another strong point, as this fan is Energy Star-certified, helping you save on electricity costs while maintaining effective ventilation. Its compact design with a depth of only 5.6 inches means it can fit in smaller spaces, and the installation is straightforward thanks to the Flex-Z Fast bracket that simplifies the mounting process.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. While the manual control for airflow is functional, some users may prefer a more automated system. The absence of additional features like built-in lighting might also be a drawback for those looking for a fan that serves multiple purposes. Additionally, it comes with a corded electric setup, which means it needs to be connected to an outlet, limiting placement options.

Rating
10.0
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
1210 reviews

Airflow Capacity (CFM)
The adjustable CFM settings allow for customization to suit different bathroom sizes, ensuring excellent ventilation without moisture buildup.
Noise Level (Sones)
This fan operates incredibly quietly, even at its highest setting, making it a perfect choice for those who value a peaceful bathroom environment.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a notable feature, with the DC motor contributing to lower energy costs over time.
Additional Features
The build quality is top-notch, giving the impression of a durable product that will last for years.
Installation Type
The Panasonic FV-0511VF1 WhisperFit DC Fan excels in ease of installation, quiet operation, and effective ventilation, even in challenging setups like sloped ceilings.
#3

Broan-NuTone® BE8 Bathroom Exhaust Fan, 80 CFM, ENERGY STAR® Exhaust Fan, 1.5 Sones

Rating
9.9
Noise Level (Sones)
Energy Efficiency
Installation Type

Most important from
9844 reviews

Noise Level (Sones)
Super easy to install and operates so quietly you hardly notice it's on.
Energy Efficiency
Highly energy-efficient while maintaining effective air extraction.
Installation Type
Installation was a breeze, even fitting into the existing housing from a 25-year-old model.

The Broan-NuTone BE8 Bathroom Exhaust Fan is a solid choice for small bathrooms up to 75 square feet. It boasts an airflow capacity of 80 CFM, which effectively helps in reducing moisture and odors. With a noise level of 1.5 sones, it operates quietly, ensuring a peaceful bathroom environment without the distraction of a loud fan. This fan is also ENERGY STAR certified, indicating high energy efficiency and lower energy consumption—about 50% less than standard bath fans, making it environmentally friendly and cost-effective over time.

Installation is straightforward and can be achieved without cutting drywall, thanks to the no cut roomside installation feature. The innovative SlideClip technology allows for easy fitting and cleaning of the grille. The fan’s sleek and modern design with a floating CleanCover grille blends seamlessly with most bathroom ceilings, adding aesthetic appeal. Weighing in at 6.19 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to handle during installation.

However, for larger bathrooms, this fan may not suffice due to its limited coverage. Additionally, while the fan’s noise level is low, some users may still find it slightly audible. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Broan-NuTone BE8 is an excellent choice for those looking for a quiet, energy-efficient, and easy-to-install bathroom exhaust fan for smaller spaces.

Rating
9.9
Noise Level (Sones)
Energy Efficiency
Installation Type

Most important from
9844 reviews

Noise Level (Sones)
Super easy to install and operates so quietly you hardly notice it's on.
Energy Efficiency
Highly energy-efficient while maintaining effective air extraction.
Installation Type
Installation was a breeze, even fitting into the existing housing from a 25-year-old model.

Buying Guide for the Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans

Choosing the right bathroom exhaust fan is essential for maintaining good air quality and preventing moisture-related issues like mold and mildew. A well-chosen exhaust fan can help keep your bathroom fresh and comfortable. When selecting a bathroom exhaust fan, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
Airflow Capacity (CFM)Airflow capacity, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), indicates how much air the fan can move. This spec is crucial because it determines the fan's ability to ventilate the bathroom effectively. For small bathrooms (under 50 square feet), a fan with 50 CFM is usually sufficient. For larger bathrooms, you may need a fan with 100 CFM or more. To choose the right CFM, measure your bathroom's square footage and match it to the fan's capacity. A higher CFM is better for larger spaces or if you have a high moisture level due to frequent use of showers or baths.
Noise Level (Sones)The noise level of a bathroom exhaust fan is measured in sones. This spec is important because it affects the comfort of using the bathroom. A lower sone rating means a quieter fan. Fans with a rating of 1.5 sones or less are considered very quiet, while those with ratings above 4 sones can be quite loud. If you prefer a peaceful bathroom environment, opt for a fan with a lower sone rating. However, if noise is not a major concern, you can choose a fan with a higher sone rating.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency indicates how much electricity the fan uses. This spec is important for reducing energy costs and environmental impact. Look for fans with the ENERGY STAR label, as they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. An energy-efficient fan will use less power while providing the same level of performance, which is beneficial for both your wallet and the environment. If you are conscious about energy consumption, prioritize fans with higher energy efficiency ratings.
Additional FeaturesSome bathroom exhaust fans come with additional features like built-in lights, heaters, or humidity sensors. These features can enhance the functionality and convenience of the fan. For example, a fan with a built-in light can save space and provide extra illumination, while a humidity sensor can automatically turn the fan on and off based on the moisture level in the bathroom. Consider your specific needs and preferences when evaluating these features. If you want more convenience and multi-functionality, look for fans with these added features.
Installation TypeThe installation type refers to how the fan is mounted and connected. This spec is important for ensuring the fan fits your bathroom's layout and your DIY skills. Common installation types include ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, and inline fans. Ceiling-mounted fans are the most common and are suitable for most bathrooms. Wall-mounted fans are ideal for bathrooms without ceiling access, while inline fans are installed in the ductwork and are great for reducing noise. Choose the installation type that best matches your bathroom's design and your ability to install it.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now