Bathrooms are not one standard size, depending on the size of your home can greatly affect the size of your bathroom. Additionally, this also applies to bathroom ventilation, as some units are more optimal for larger spaces than smaller spaces.
In this blog, we will share information regarding the best bathroom fans with built-in heaters.
To prevent mould, fresh air should always be introduced into your dwelling daily, as it helps to regulate temperature and reduce condensation. Introducing fresh air can be as simple as having a ventilation routine, or installing extractors or PIV systems.
Having an understanding of the uses and reasoning for ducting can be just the information you require in order to get the correct ducting to fit your needs. Knowing how their differences can save you any potential mistakes if you choose to set it up yourself.
I-Sells is here to provide the answers you require whilst also supplying you with all the information you need to combat mould and have a well-ventilated home.
How do I keep my bathroom dry without ventilation?
Even without ventilation, there are ways to minimize moisture and prevent mould in your bathroom. Here’s a combined approach:
Increase Airflow
Open windows and bathroom doors whenever you shower or bathe. Aim for at least 30 minutes of ventilation afterwards. If possible, create a cross breeze with another open window in your home.
Reduce Moisture Source
Take shorter, cooler showers to generate less steam. After showering, use a squeegee to remove water droplets from walls, curtains, and doors. Wipe down surfaces with a microfiber cloth to absorb lingering moisture. Hang wet towels outside the bathroom or in a well-ventilated area to dry quickly. Consider a drying rack for bath mats and towels.
Increase Drying Power
Invest in a small dehumidifier for your bathroom. Run it before, during, and after showering to remove excess moisture from the air. Remember to empty the water reservoir regularly.
As a last resort, use a small space heater cautiously after showering to dry surfaces faster. However, be extremely mindful of fire hazards and overheating the room. Only use this method with direct supervision of the heater.
Long-Term Strategies
Ensure bathroom cabinets have space below the doors for airflow. Choose mould-resistant materials like mildew-resistant paint and grout for easier maintenance. Maintain a regular cleaning routine, including scrubbing grout lines and disinfecting surfaces to prevent mould growth.
While these steps can help, they are not a substitute for proper ventilation. Without an extractor fan or window, mould growth is still a significant risk, especially in humid climates. If possible, consider installing a ventilation system for optimal bathroom health and safety.
Best bathroom ventilation fans for small spaces
![Best bathroom ventilation fans for small spaces](https://www.i-sells.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/shutterstock_2172927609.jpg)
For small bathrooms, the best ventilation fans are those that are efficient at moving air but quiet enough not to be disruptive. Here are some features to consider:
- Size: Look for a fan with a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating that is appropriate for the size of your bathroom. A good rule of thumb is to choose a fan that can move at least 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space. So, for a 50-square-foot bathroom, you would need a fan with a CFM rating of at least 50.
- Noise Level: Look for a fan with a sone rating of 0.5 to 1.0. Sones are a unit of loudness; lower sone ratings mean quieter fans.
- Humidity Sensor: A humidity sensor will automatically turn the fan on when the humidity level in the bathroom rises, and off when it falls. This can help to save energy and reduce noise.
- Light: Some fans have a built-in light that can be helpful in a small bathroom.
Does a small bathroom have to have a bathroom extractor fan?
In most cases, yes, even a small bathroom needs some form of ventilation, either by an extractor fan or a window. Building regulations often require this for proper air circulation and moisture control.
If your bathroom only has a toilet, a window might suffice for ventilation, depending on local building codes. If your bathroom has a shower or bath, an extractor fan is usually required in addition to a window, especially in new builds which tend to be more airtight.
Here are some reasons why good ventilation is important in all bathrooms, regardless of size:
- Reduces Condensation: Hot showers and baths create a lot of moisture. Without proper ventilation, this moisture condenses on walls, ceilings, and fixtures, which can lead to mould growth and mildew.
- Prevents Odours: Extractor fans help remove unpleasant bathroom smells.
- Improves Air Quality: They help remove airborne contaminants and pollutants.
So, even if your local building code allows a window as the sole source of ventilation in a small bathroom with a toilet, an extractor fan is still highly recommended for the reasons mentioned above.
Pros and cons between a bathroom extractor fan and an inline fan
![Pros and cons between a bathroom extractor fan and an inline fan](https://www.i-sells.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/shutterstock_2299267227.jpg)
Bathroom extractor fans and inline fans are both ventilation options for bathrooms, but they differ in their location and functionality:
Bathroom Extractor Fan:
- Location: Installed directly in the ceiling or wall inside the bathroom.
- Functionality: These fans have a built-in motor and fan blades that directly pull out moist air from the bathroom. The extracted air is then vented out through a duct in the wall or ceiling to the outside.
Pros:
- Simpler installation, especially for existing bathrooms with accessible crawl spaces or attics.
- Generally more affordable than inline fans.
Cons:
- Can be noisy due to the motor and fan being located within the bathroom.
- Less powerful than inline fans, especially for longer duct runs with bends.
Inline Fan:
- Location: Installed within the ductwork itself, typically in the loft space or ceiling void above the bathroom.
- Functionality: The fan unit sits remotely in the duct line, boosting the airflow created by the bathroom vent. This allows for more powerful extraction and handling of longer duct runs.
Pros:
- Significantly quieter than extractor fans because the motor is located outside the bathroom.
- More powerful and can handle longer duct runs with bends, ideal for larger bathrooms or those with complex duct layouts.
Cons:
- Requires more complex installation, involving accessing the ceiling void or loft space.
- Generally more expensive than extractor fans.
Is mould bad for your health?
Yes, mould can be harmful to your health. Exposure to mould spores, particularly for those with allergies or weakened immune systems, can trigger respiratory problems like coughing, wheezing, and stuffy nose. In severe cases, it can even lead to respiratory infections.
Mould can also irritate the skin and eyes, causing rashes and itchiness. While most people won’t experience serious health effects, long-term exposure can worsen chronic conditions. If you suspect mould growth in your home, address it promptly to prevent potential health risks.
If mould has already developed in your bathroom, it may require mould removal products. If this doesn’t work, you may require professional mould removal services.
Find the best bathroom ventilation today
![Find the best bathroom ventilation today](https://www.i-sells.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/shutterstock_1883571001.jpg)
We at I-Sells endeavour to make sure our customers have all the information they require before deciding to invest in our mould solutions. Be sure to visit our blog page to gain knowledge on the wide array of factors and issues surrounding ventilation, mould, condensation, and much more.
We hope to have given you relevant information regarding the best bathroom ventilation for small spaces.
We understand you may have more questions, do not hesitate to contact us for more information with regard to whatever you require our help with. If you’d like to email us, click here. For other contact options, see below:
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