Let’s be real; there are several things we should be doing that we seldom do. Using the bathroom fan appropriately is one of them. In addition, timely and correct drying of the shower and the bathroom glasses is crucial to prevent risks of mold, rusting, and similar complications.
But how often do you even step out of a shower and switch on the fan? Not much, right? Think about this – You step out of the shower, and the fan automatically switches on with rising humidity.
It sounds like a lucrative option, doesn’t it? Well, because it is. Buying a high-quality and tangible bathroom exhaust fan with a humidity sensor is a gamechanger. You won’t ever have to worry about doing things manually anymore.
This article will explore some of the best bathroom exhaust fans with a humidity sensor to help you pick the best one.
What Is a Humidity Sensing Bathroom Fan?
In an ideal world, you will switch on the bathroom fan when you shower. Then, you will leave it on for another 15 minutes after your shower.
But, do you even do it?
As humans, we either forget or don’t care enough to switch on our bathroom exhaust fans. Unfortunately, this slight negligence can later turn into a health hazard with the overgrowth of molds and dirt.
A humidity-sensing bathroom fan has an in-built humidistat in it. This humidity sensor analyzes the moisture level in the air and automatically switches on the fan to reduce the humidity.
Every such fan has its threshold level, after which the fan switches on. Typically, 55% humidity is the standard percentage.
How Does a Bathroom Exhaust Fan with A Humidity Sensor Work?
As we mentioned, a bathroom exhaust fan has a humidity sensor. When the humidity levels rise in the bathroom, especially in the shower, the sensor triggers the fan and automatically switches it on.
Every exhaust fan has a different humidity threshold. Some even come with adjustable settings to support your shower tendencies.
Once the sensor triggers the fan, it is automatically switched on, and it stays switched on for around 10-15 minutes until the humidity level comes down.
Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Humidity Sensor: Reviewed
Buying a humidity-sensing bathroom exhaust fan is a challenging task. First, you have to check the quality of the product, reviews, and even the brand’s reliability. To make the process easier for you, we have reviewed some of our top picks worth the price.
1. Homewerks 7136-02HW Bathroom Vent Fan with Automatic Humidity Sensor
Taking a morning shower is part of most people’s routine. However, everyone is ideally rushing around in the morning. So, it’s common to forget to switch on the bathroom fan. Homewerks understands the complication, and this their bathroom vent fan is a bestseller.
Besides the comfortable function and design, this Homewerks Humidity Sensing Exhaust fan is quiet, powerful, and features automatic settings depending on the moisture levels. Integrated with Moisture Detection Technology, the fan automatically switches on when humidity reaches 60%.
It comes with a full-mode speed and humidity sensing mode that works depending on the moisture level in the room. With an impressive 140CFM power, the vent fan works like a dream to push excess air out. It can manage the airflow in larger bathrooms as well.
The vent fan is paired with the Quiet One Sone function and doesn’t create a whirring noise when switched on. So you can calmly keep it switched on without worrying about the obnoxious noises it creates.
Improved with the smart functions, the sensors are highly reactive. The moment the moisture level in the room increases, the fan automatically switches on without external effort. The airflow clears the fog, prevents moisture accumulation, and keeps your bathroom dry and mold-free.
Key Specifications
- Programmed with Moisture detection technology
- It runs at 140 CFM power airflow
- Quiet and noise-free functions
- Intelligent and proactive humidity sensor
Pros
- Quick response to elevated moisture levels
- Energy-efficient functions
- It prevents risks of mold and rust
Cons
- It doesn’t have an LED as mentioned
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2. Broan-NuTone AER110SLW Roomside Humidity Sensing Exhaust
Broan NuTone is a brand that doesn’t require an introduction. This exhaust fan works like a dream combined with 110 CPM and 1.5 Sones noise function. However, the best part of this product is the design and appearance.
The humidity-sensing decorative exhaust elevates the look of your bathroom. But not just that, the integrated LED lights effectively illuminate the bathroom too. If you don’t like the appearance of a fan smack dab in the middle of the bathroom, this is your best pick.
Coming to the functions, the highly effective humidity sensing fan operates at 110CFM. The best part is the lack of unwanted noise when switched on. The fan dries the bathroom and maintains the air quality substantially well when switched on.
Powerful ventilation with the exhaust fan reduces the mold and mildew growth in the bathroom. This ensures optimal health, especially if you already live in humid areas in the United States.
With a brand like Broan NuTone, you won’t have to complain about reliability. The installation procedure is automatic after the product’s delivery. In addition, it has a four-point mounting that ensures easy installation in no time at all.
Also, the low-profile integrated LED lights serve as a good alternative for your standard bathroom lights. The overall product is quite energy-efficient and is backed with a three-year warranty from the brand, which is quite promising.
Key Specifications
- Powered with 110CFM airflow
- Functions at 1.5 Sones noise
- Backed with a 3-years warranty
- Designed with low-profile LED lights
- Features humidity sensing ventilation
Pros
- Easy operation
- High-quality construction
- LED lights support illumination
Cons
- A little overpriced
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3. Delta Electronics BreezSignature Humidity Sensor Fan
Hands down one of the best and most affordable brands in the market, Delta Electronics brings you good products at reasonable pricing. The BreezSignature humidity sensor fan is virtually silent and saves you a lot on the power bills.
Besides the fan’s standard functions, it is integrated with an LED indicator light underneath the grille to illuminate the entire bathroom for efficient functioning. Also, like most the humidity sensor fans, even this one is backed with a 3-year warranty.
With 80CFM, the exhaust fan is ideal for smaller bathrooms for better efficiency in keeping them dry and clean after a shower session. But, the winning trait in the fan is the less than 2.0 Sones functionalities.
Backed with Energy Star certification, the fan qualifies for the best cost-saving operation. You won’t have to worry about being hit with a large power bill by the end of the month. The interior of this fan comes with a brushless DC motor for long-lasting functions like no other.
Key Specifications
- Powered by 80CFM airflow
- Integrated with a brushless DC motor
- The noise level is 2.0 Sones
- Easy functions toggling wall switch
Pros
- Powerful airflow
- Energy-efficient functions
- Extended reliability
Cons
- Not the best for larger bathroom space
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4. Homewerks 7145-80V-HS Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Automating Humidity Sensor
With Homewerks as a staple in the market for exhaust fans, the Homewerks 7145-80V-HS was a must mention in the list. This is one of the few dual-speed exhaust fans you can find on the market, all for the right reasons.
Paired with 80-110 CFM airflow, the exhaust fan operates at 1 Sones noise, which is comparably non-existent. If the humidity crosses 80%, the fan changes its operation to 1.5 Sones instead. Besides the dual-speed functions, the fan also stands out regarding its benefits.
Besides quick drying of the shower walls and glass, the exhaust fan cleans the bathroom too. It gets rid of the harsh odor and the fumes inside the shower. You will not have to worry about molds and mildew growth in the bathroom anymore.
Since it’s for a bathroom setting, the galvanized steel construction poses a lot of benefits. From making it corrosion resistant to efficient, the design contributes a lot. The highlight of this exhaust fan is the dual-setting automatic humidity sensor.
Featuring a no-cut design, the exhaust fan is very easy to install and fits into any space in the bathroom. In addition, you can contact the brand to sort out the installation process hassle-free.
Key Specifications
- Adjustable airflow between 80-110 CFM
- 1.0 to 1.5 Sones noise production
- Designed with galvanized steel material
- No-cut design for easy installation
Pros
- It gets rid of harsh fumes and odor
- It prevents the growth of molds
- Adjustable functions
- Easy to install
Cons
- Light execution of the sensors is subpar
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5. Hauslane Electric Bathroom Fan
Priced under $120, the Hauslane Electric Bathroom Fan is a bestselling option on Amazon. Besides the staple humidity sensor, the fan features an extra motion sensor function. The built-in sensors regulate your bathroom usage without any hassle.
This bathroom fan’s adjustable AC/DC power source is another versatile trait. The bathroom fan runs at 120CFM, which is quite promising when it comes to airflow and ventilation. Besides optimal airflow, the unique suction technology gets rid of bad odor from the bathroom.
Propelling at 1007 RPM, the exhaust fan doesn’t disturb the people in the house with its functions. You can comfortably switch it on and live a carefree life.
For easy installation, the Hauslene supplies the product with the double hanger bar system for easy set-up. Also, the ventilation process is quite promising, thanks to the 4” vent connector. Each component in the product package fits right into each other for seamless installation.
Besides the exhaust fan and vents, you have 6W LED lights integrated into the fan too. This illuminates the bathroom comfortably while circulating the air inside. Also, the product is backed with a 2-years warranty, which is promising too.
Key Specifications
- Powerful air flow at 120CFM
- Features humidity and motion sensors
- Connected to 4” vent connector
- It comes with 6W LED lights
Pros
- Easy to install
- Efficient airflow
- Backed with a 2-years warranty
Cons
- LED light isn’t that responsive
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6. KAZE APPLIANCE Ultra Quiet Bathroom Exhaust Ventilation Fan
Ideal for larger and spacious bathrooms, the KAZE APPLIANCE Ultra Quiet Bathroom Exhaust Ventilation Fan is a public favorite, and for all the right reasons. Since the exhaust fan measures 11 3/8″ x 10 1/2″, we’d recommend buying it after measuring the available space.
The fan works optimally in bathrooms measuring 120 sq. ft. The best part is that it runs at 0.3 Sones. Besides the latest functions, the only downside to the exhaust fan is the design. The boxed design is very evident and can ruin the aesthetics in certain bathrooms.
With the unique humidity sensing technology, the exhaust fan detects the sudden change in the humidity levels and regulates it. Paired with hands-free operation, the exhaust fan works optimally without external efforts.
Integrated with sliding hanger bars, the installation process is seamless. The 24-inch bars in the exhaust fan are another benefit that supports seamless framing. In addition, the inside of the exhaust fan features a removable 6-inch metal duct with a draft prevention damper for easy removable of the damp air comfortably.
Above all, users get up to a 3-years warranty on the product to support optimal reliability like no other brand.
Key Specifications
- Ideal for 120 sq. ft bathroom space
- Functions at 0.3 Sones
- Powerful 120CFM airflow
- Integrated with metal ducts
Pros
- Hands-free operation
- Easy installation
- Backed with a 3-years warranty
Cons
- Not the best for smaller spaces
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7. Luvoni 80 CFM Bathroom Exhaust and Ventilation Fan
Although Luvoni isn’t the most popular brand in the market, its popularity has grown substantially. This particular exhaust and ventilation fan with 80CFM is efficient and compatible with almost every other bathroom setting.
The high-power oscillation of the ventilation fan ventilates the bathroom and removes bad odors and fumes. Particularly designed for smaller bathroom spaces, the fan operates hands-free, using its humidity sensor technology.
Besides the air vents, the perimeter is integrated with 600 Lumens 3000K LED lights for illuminating the bathroom hassle-free. Paired with the noise-free operation at 1.5 Sones, you can keep the fan switched on for a long.
Despite the efficient functions, the entire unit, including the fan and LED lights, consume 33 watts of energy, which is pretty great too. Furthermore, the 3-years warranty on the product ensures prolonged usage and independent control.
Key Specifications
- Designed with 4-inch compatible ducts
- Powerful 80CFM airflow
- Designed with 600 Lumens LED light
Pros
- Features automatic and direct humidity sensor
- Ventilates and cleans the bathroom
- Easy installation
Cons
- Not suitable for larger bathrooms
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What Are the Top Benefits of Humidity-Sensing Bath Fans?
When you move into a new place (owned or rented), the bathroom plays a crucial role in the decision. So, why don’t we pay equal attention to it after a hot shower?
Our bathrooms are subjected to the risks of molds very quickly, especially if you don’t have an exhaust fan fitted. The higher humidity and moisture level in the bath can also corrode the metal taps and the shower parts.
Most manual bathroom exhaust fans are sitting there fitted into the bathroom, serving no purpose. So often, we forget to even switch it on, and that’s common human nature.
Doing so for a prolonged period leads to substantial complications, especially with excess moisture accumulation and poor air quality. A good humidity-sensing bath fan can prevent mold accumulation on the caulking.
However, the best part of using an automatic exhaust fan is the energy-saving factor. The humidistat switch works based on the humidity levels. So, you won’t have to worry about wasting excess energy by accidentally keeping the fan switched on. An automatic switch-off function prevents risks of fire hazards in homes too.
Moreover, moisture is your bathroom’s biggest enemy. So, your primary aim is to prevent its accumulation. Taking early precautions with a good exhaust fan can save you thousands of dollars in the future.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Bathroom Exhaust Fan?
Simply knowing the best bathroom exhaust fans isn’t enough. You need to know how you can pick the best ones. You need to understand the features you should emphasize. Also, you need to know which brands to rely on and which ones to brush aside.
Following are some of the predominant features you need to be mindful about:
Size of your Bathroom
There are exhaust fans particularly designed to accommodate smaller and larger bathrooms individually. Therefore, while buying a bathroom exhaust fan, your objective would be to ensure that you buy one according to the bathroom size.
If you have a smaller bathroom, a smaller and compact fan with 80CFM will suffice. But, if you have a larger shower space, you might need a larger fan with higher airflow for better results.
Adjustability
Despite the automatic humidity sensor technology, adjustable functions are crucial. For example, you don’t want to invest in an exhaust fan with highly sensitive sensors. This will often trigger the fan, resulting in longer power bills.
Brands like Delta offer adjustable functions between 50-and 80%. So, as a user, you can set the ideal moisture levels for the sensor. This ensures the fans operate only when needed.
Also, cross-check the default settings in the humidity sensor. What this does is ensure you have a standard functioning spectrum. Under this, the bathroom exhaust fan will only operate when the humidity rises above the trigger point.
Airflow power
The CFM or the airflow power of the exhaust fan matters too. If you have a huge shower with glass walls, the last thing you want is poorly managed air circulation. The airflow power is directly proportional to the bathroom’s size.
If the bathroom is spacious, you need a higher CFM exhaust fan. If the bathroom is small and compact, you can make do with a lower CFM fan. The ideal range is between 80-120 CFM for most standard home bathrooms and showers.
Noise levels
We can’t stress this enough, but no one wants a constant whirring noise coming from their bathroom. It is exhausting, but it also affects the bathroom’s interior. The vibration and loud noise can make things fall off the shelves, creating a mess.
Instead, invest in humidity-sensitive exhaust fans with low noise levels. Options operating at 1-2 Sones are pretty decent. We have sorted out a list of ultra-quiet and highly functional fans in the list above.
Duct size
Simply buying a bathroom exhaust fan isn’t the end of the road. First, you have to install it the correct way. For that, being mindful of the duct size is crucial, some of the fans also comes with ductless system. Many exhaust fans require larger ducts, between 4-and 6 inches.
But, if you have an older house, the available vents and ducts will likely measure 3 inches. So, plan your purchase accordingly. Even if you are getting a fan with a 4-inch duct size, you’d need to break it down a bit around. However, there are options with smaller duct sizes that you can look into.
Besides these basic features, cross-check the pricing before buying any product. The last thing you want to do is pay a huge amount for an exhaust fan that doesn’t live up to your expectations.
FAQs
What Should Humidity Sensor Be Set At?
For most bathrooms, the humidity sensor should be at a minimum of 50-60%. Anything less than that will trigger the fan to stay switched on throughout the day.
Does A Humidity Sensing Fan Need a Switch?
Despite the automatic functions, it is better to connect the humidity sensing fan to a switch. This allows the users to use it in the humidity and manual fan modes, as per requirements.
How To Wire Bathroom Fan with Humidity Sensor?
If your existing bathroom fan doesn’t have a humidity sensor, you can program it externally by connecting it to one. In addition, there are independent humidity sensors available in the market that can be wired to the external switch for similar results.
Conclusion
Buying a humidity sensor exhaust fan for the bathroom is an exciting experience. With a successful installation, you won’t have to worry about molds and damage anymore. However, with so many options, choosing can become challenging pretty quickly.
Our article explores the top seven picks with the hopes that you find your best choice. However, if we had to pick, the Homewerks 7136-02HW Bathroom Vent Fan with Automatic Humidity Sensor is our favorite.
We hope this article gives you all the details about the significance of a bathroom exhaust fan and which one to pick. If you have further questions, feel free to leave them for us in the comments.
