BATHROOM FAN

[jb1468]

Apologies if this is not in the right forum. Feel free to move if appropriate.

I am planning to replace bathroom/update. Currently does not have an extractor fan. I have a window. I think I read that in England/Wales building regs insist on fitting one, even with a window in situ. I live in N Ireland. does anyone know if I am still obliged to fit one.

Just for curiosity what are the consequences if I don't (I would use the window to prevent damp etc)

If I am to fit one - is there any such unit that would avoid the need to extract to outside space (i.e say extract to some type of condensing unit situated in roofspace??) I imagine there is not - but just asking if such technology exists.

If not I will stay with conventional and extract through wall
Any advice re type appreciated. Why do most people tend to go for model (think its called timed) operated through light switch?

Also importantly the noise is what puts me off them. My girlfriend likes her quiet baths (maybe i should change her instead of the bathroom ) Recommended QUIET models much much appreciated

Many thanks once again.

 

[David937]

Bigger fans running at lower speeds are quieter, if you see the price for a 12" fan you will be put off.

I would recommended a Vent axia 6" inch silhouette fan.

 

[jb1468]

Bigger fans running at lower speeds are quieter, if you see the price for a 12" fan you will be put off.

I would recommended a Vent axia 6" inch silhouette fan.

Its a very small bathroom where my external wall is taken up mostly by the window. Would only have space for a standard size. What do you think of the model below then?. If i got this (electrician would be fitting when he here to do other work) what else do I need. I need some type of kit (dont think it comes with it) Is the one on the page ok?. Does this model operate through the light switch? thanks

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/92561...nt-Axia-Silhouette100T-Axial-13W-Bathroom-Fan

 

[breezer]

..... Does this model operate through the light switch? thanks

yes.


but do you really want one that has a timer?

 

[robertito]

It's usual to power these through the light switch, but you need an extra live supply to run the fan on time delay after the switch is turned off. Another thing you need to think about is whether the lintel above the window would be a problem as regards the hole through the wall.

 

[Taylortwocities]

Your fan will need a three pole isolation switch - mounted outside the bathroom.
This is used to isolate the fan when/if maintenance is required, it would also allow your girlfriend to have nice quiet baths.

See Building Regs Part F. This states that "extract ventilation to the outside is required in bathrooms......"
You would need to read section 3 as it applies to work on existing buildings..

 

[ban-all-sheds]

I am planning to replace bathroom/update. Currently does not have an extractor fan. I have a window. I think I read that in England/Wales building regs insist on fitting one, even with a window in situ.

No, they don't.

Just for curiosity what are the consequences if I don't (I would use the window to prevent damp etc)

Increased condensation and consequent mould growth. Opening the window isn't effective in winter, and your girlfriend enjoying her quiet bath will surely not relish getting her **** frozen off...

If I am to fit one - is there any such unit that would avoid the need to extract to outside space

Why are you so against venting to the outside?

Why do most people tend to go for model (think its called timed) operated through light switch?

Using the light switch means that you don't have to explicitly turn the fan on, but in a bathroom with natural light you might not use the lights all the time, and if you only go in to clean your teeth before bed you don't need it to come on. I'm not a big fan of the system.

Timed overrun means that the fan continues to run and finish the job of extraction after the occupants have departed the steamy bathroom - this is a good idea.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

See Building Regs Part F.

 

[jb1468]

It's usual to power these through the light switch, but you need an extra live supply to run the fan on time delay after the switch is turned off. Another thing you need to think about is whether the lintel above the window would be a problem as regards the hole through the wall.

thanks, lintel not an issue as small space to side of window.

 

[jb1468]

I am planning to replace bathroom/update. Currently does not have an extractor fan. I have a window. I think I read that in England/Wales building regs insist on fitting one, even with a window in situ.

No, they don't.

Just for curiosity what are the consequences if I don't (I would use the window to prevent damp etc)

Increased condensation and consequent mould growth. Opening the window isn't effective in winter, and your girlfriend enjoying her quiet bath will surely not relish getting her **** frozen off...

If I am to fit one - is there any such unit that would avoid the need to extract to outside space

Why are you so against venting to the outside?

Why do most people tend to go for model (think its called timed) operated through light switch?

Using the light switch means that you don't have to explicitly turn the fan on, but in a bathroom with natural light you might not use the lights all the time, and if you only go in to clean your teeth before bed you don't need it to come on. I'm not a big fan of the system.

Timed overrun means that the fan continues to run and finish the job of extraction after the occupants have departed the steamy bathroom - this is a good idea.

Thanks, I am not against venting, just would choose a less laboured option if it was available and effective - I take it there is not?

I get your point re the fan coming on when you only want light and having to use the light when u want a bath, even during the day when it is not required - you have me thinking, so if I dont do it that way what type do I need to be buying and how do they work - is it the pull cord option?

 

[jb1468]

Bigger fans running at lower speeds are quieter, if you see the price for a 12" fan you will be put off.

I would recommended a Vent axia 6" inch silhouette fan.

Its a very small bathroom where my external wall is taken up mostly by the window. Would only have space for a standard size. What do you think of the model below then?. If i got this (electrician would be fitting when he here to do other work) what else do I need. I need some type of kit (dont think it comes with it) Is the one on the page ok?. Does this model operate through the light switch? thanks

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/92561...Silhouette100T-Axial-13W-Bathroom-Fan[/QUOTE]

Thanks to all for your comments, at least my options and whats involved becoming a little clearer. If I do purchase the above model, what else do I need to complete (apart from the isolation switch, able etc - the spark can get that) I dont think the model from screfix is complete. I know its probably obvious, but I have never fitted or bought a fan before.

Do I need some type of kit - i.e. ducting and external grill - I dont think it comes with it?......or can you get standard ducting/external grill kits that would fit this model and can be bought at later date in any decent outlets

thanks a lot

 

[FourFootMedia]

Do I need some type of kit - i.e. ducting and external grill - I dont think it comes with it?......or can you get standard ducting/external grill kits that would fit this model and can be bought at later date in any decent outlets

thanks a lot

There's one right there on the screwfix page you linked to.

 

[jb1468]

Forget what I said about through wall......just had a closer look I have no space at all on the external wall, so if I'm to go ahead with this I would need to go through the roof space to the outside. This is going to be very difficult as there is probably not enough room in the roof space above the bathroom to work in.......unless you crawled on you belly

At a loss to consider how to proceed. If the hole was able to be drilled/cut out from outside and the ducting somehow managed to be connected up between the two points, would an electrician do all this???

I sure dont fancy this job at all.

Maybe I will just let my gf freeze her **** off

 

[breezer]

would an electrician do all this???

pay enough, then probably.

if it helps mine goes through the ceiling and out via the soffit

 

[flameport]

Via the roofspace and out through the soffit is probably the best option, and it will allow the use of an inline fan fixed in the roofspace, which will be quieter than a wall or ceiling mounted type.

probably not enough room in the roof space above the bathroom to work in.......unless you crawled on you belly

Just like most lofts then. If unwilling to crawl in there yourself, you will have to pay someone else to do it.