Do bathroom exhaust fans need to be cleaned?

How Often Should You Clean Your Bathroom Exhaust Vent Fan?

There’s nothing worse than stepping into a steamy shower and being greeted by a musty smell. Or worse, finding mold or mildew growing in the grout. If you’re someone who struggles with keeping your bathroom clean and fresh-smelling, you might not be cleaning your bathroom exhaust vent fan as often as you should be. 

Bathroom exhaust fans play an important role in removing excess moisture from the air and keeping mold and mildew at bay. That’s why it’s critical to have an exhaust fan that is vented to the outside in every bathroom in your home and to run it for 15-20 minutes after showering or bathing.

If the fan isn’t correctly vented, the wet air will just cycle throughout the room, adding to the problem. Furthermore, the fan’s filter should be cleaned periodically and changed as needed. By following these easy procedures, you can help keep your bathroom clean and dry, preventing mold and mildew growth.

How Often Should You Clean Your Bathroom Exhaust Vent Fan?

Ideally, you should clean your bathroom exhaust vent fan once a year. However, if you live in an area with high humidity or have pets that shed a lot, you may need to clean it more frequently. To clean your bathroom exhaust vent fan, start by turning off the power to the unit at the circuit breaker. Next, remove the cover of the unit and wash it in soapy water. Once the cover is clean, vacuum any dirt or debris from around the motor housing. Finally, replace the cover and turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. 

It’s also a good idea to inspect and clean the ductwork that runs from the fan to the outside of your home at least once a year. If there is any mold or mildew growing inside the ductwork, use a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove it. If necessary, you can also use a mixture of bleach and water to clean mold and mildew from the ductwork. Just be sure to open a window or door when using bleach to ensure proper ventilation.

By following these simple tips for cleaning your bathroom exhaust vent fan, you can help keep your bathroom smelling fresh and prevent mold and mildew growth. Just remember to turn off the power before beginning any work on the unit, and be sure to vacuum or brush away any dirt or debris from around the motor housing. It’s also a good idea to inspect and clean ductwork at least once a year. By taking these precautions, you can help keep your bathroom looking and smelling its best.