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10 Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Panasonic WhisperFit Retrofit Ceiling Mount Bathroom Exhaust Fan, 50-80-110 CFM, FV-0511VF1

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,437
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
1350 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
Chosen by1,437
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
1350 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.
#2

Panasonic WhisperWarm Ceiling Mount Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Heater, 50-80-110 CFM, FV-0511VH1

Rating
10.0
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Additional Features

Most important from
335 reviews

Airflow Capacity (CFM)
The mirrors don't fog up even after a 30-minute hot shower.
Noise Level (Sones)
Truly quiet, even during normal conversation, you can't hear the fan running.
Additional Features
The heater makes the bathroom toasty warm within 5 minutes.

The Panasonic FV-0511VH1 WhisperWarm DC Bathroom Fan with Heater is a versatile choice for those seeking both ventilation and heating in their bathroom. One of its standout features is its Pick-A-Flow technology, which allows easy selection of airflow capacity from 50, 80, or 110 CFM. This means it can cater to different bathroom sizes and ventilation needs. Additionally, the fan operates with a high-performing ECM motor, ensuring reliable and efficient performance.

It is ENERGY STAR certified, which indicates good energy efficiency, potentially reducing electricity costs over time. The built-in 1600W positive temperature coefficient heater provides added warmth, making it an excellent solution for chilly spaces. Installation is made simple with the Flex-Z Fast bracket, allowing for quick and flexible setup.

While the fan includes a powerful heater, it may consume more power (1600 watts), impacting energy usage. Suitable for those looking for an all-in-one ventilation and heating solution, this Panasonic model is particularly beneficial for colder climates or bathrooms that require efficient ventilation.

Rating
10.0
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Additional Features

Most important from
335 reviews

Airflow Capacity (CFM)
The mirrors don't fog up even after a 30-minute hot shower.
Noise Level (Sones)
Truly quiet, even during normal conversation, you can't hear the fan running.
Additional Features
The heater makes the bathroom toasty warm within 5 minutes.
#3

Panasonic WhisperFit Ceiling Mount Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Dimmable LED Light, 50-80-110 CFM, FV-0511VFL1

Rating
9.4
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Additional Features

Most important from
810 reviews

Airflow Capacity (CFM)
The fan's three selectable ventilation speeds cater to diverse needs, enhancing its versatility and effectiveness in moisture control.
Noise Level (Sones)
Its exceptionally quiet operation ensures a peaceful bathroom environment, living up to the 'WhisperFit' name.
Additional Features
Pairing with a humidistat can effectively combat mold and mildew by automatically activating the fan when humidity levels rise.
Installation Type
Installation is streamlined and efficient, with a bracket system that simplifies the process even for single individuals.

The Panasonic FV-0511VFL1 WhisperFit DC Retrofit Ventilation Fan with Light stands out in the bathroom exhaust fan category due to its versatile airflow options, quiet operation, and energy efficiency. Offering three adjustable airflow settings at 50, 80, or 110 CFM, it caters to various room sizes and ventilation needs. The fan operates at a low noise level of 1.5 sones, which ensures a peaceful environment, especially in small spaces like bathrooms. Its Energy Star certification reflects its energy-saving capability, making it a cost-effective choice for long-term use.

The fan comes with a dimmable LED light and nightlight, adding functionality in poorly lit areas. This feature is particularly useful in bathrooms that might lack natural light. Installation is made easier with the single-hinged Flex-Z Fast bracket, though it may still require some DIY experience or professional help for those unfamiliar with electrical installations.

One of the fan's notable advantages is its SmartFlow Technology and ECM motor, designed to maintain optimal airflow. This ensures consistent performance and efficiency, crucial for maintaining air quality and reducing moisture in bathrooms. A potential drawback is its reliance on a corded electric power source, which limits flexibility in placement and may necessitate additional wiring efforts during installation. The fan is also only suitable for indoor use, primarily in bathrooms, but can extend to other areas like laundry rooms or garages.

In short, the Panasonic WhisperFit DC fan is a sound choice for those seeking a reliable, quiet, and energy-efficient bathroom exhaust solution with additional lighting features. Those with specific needs for cordless options or an outdoor application may need to consider alternatives.

Rating
9.4
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Noise Level (Sones)
Additional Features

Most important from
810 reviews

Airflow Capacity (CFM)
The fan's three selectable ventilation speeds cater to diverse needs, enhancing its versatility and effectiveness in moisture control.
Noise Level (Sones)
Its exceptionally quiet operation ensures a peaceful bathroom environment, living up to the 'WhisperFit' name.
Additional Features
Pairing with a humidistat can effectively combat mold and mildew by automatically activating the fan when humidity levels rise.
Installation Type
Installation is streamlined and efficient, with a bracket system that simplifies the process even for single individuals.

Buying Guide for the Best Bathroom Exhaust Fans

Choosing the right bathroom exhaust fan is essential for keeping your bathroom fresh, preventing mold, and protecting fixtures from moisture damage. These fans help remove excess humidity and odors, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment. When selecting a bathroom exhaust fan, pay attention to a few important features that suit the size of your bathroom and your comfort needs.
Airflow (CFM)CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute and indicates how much air the exhaust fan can move. This is important because a fan that moves too little air won't properly vent the bathroom, leading to lingering odors and moisture. Small bathrooms generally need a fan rated at around 50-80 CFM, while medium to large bathrooms may require 100 CFM or more. To choose the right CFM, measure your bathroom’s square footage and look for recommendations—often about 1 CFM per square foot as a starting point for standard ceiling heights.
Noise Level (Sones)Noise level for bathroom fans is measured in sones. A lower sone rating means the fan is quieter, which is desirable for a peaceful bathroom experience. Fans typically range from about 0.5 sones (very quiet) up to 4 sones or more (noticeably noisy). If you prefer a tranquil bathroom, look for a model with sones under 2. If noise isn’t a concern, higher sone fans tend to be more affordable.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how much electricity the fan uses during operation. More efficient fans save energy and money over time, while still providing strong airflow. Look for models with energy-saving certifications if you want to reduce electricity use and environmental impact. If you run the fan often, prioritizing energy efficiency is wise.
Additional Features (Lights, Heaters, Sensors)Many bathroom exhaust fans come with extra features like built-in lights, heaters, or humidity/motion sensors. These additions can improve convenience or comfort. For example, built-in lights save space, heaters add warmth, and sensors can automatically control the fan, helping maintain the right conditions without manual effort. Choose features that match your preferences; for basic moisture removal, simpler models may suffice.
Installation RequirementsInstallation can range from easy to involved, depending on your bathroom’s setup and the fan’s design. Some fans fit into existing ceiling openings, while others may require wiring or ductwork adjustments. If you’re replacing an old fan, check the size and mounting type to ensure compatibility. For new installations, consider ease of installation if you plan to do it yourself, or be prepared to hire a professional for complex setups.

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