Are you looking for the best bathroom exhaust fan with a humidity sensor? If yes, then you’ve come to the right place. This article contains some useful tips that will help you find a remedy to curb moisture in your bathroom.
Whether you’re looking to maintain your bathroom interior, save energy bills, or safeguard your health against germs, we’ve provided a list of humidity sensing fans to fit the bill. And with the aid of the pros and cons that we’ve profiled on each of them, there is no doubt that you’ll find the right fan for your needs.
Enjoy!
What Is A Bathroom Exhaust Fan With Humidity Sensor?
A bathroom exhaust fan with a humidity sensor will automatically monitor and reduce high levels of moisture in the bathroom. It features a sensor that triggers when humidity rises above a certain level and then turns off after the humidity is curtailed.
Short on time? Here is my short list of the top bathroom exhaust fan with humidity sensors
1. Panasonic WhisperSense Ventilation Fan — Top Pick
2. Broan-Nutone Humidity-Sensing Ventilation Fan — Best With Automatic Sensor
3. Kaze Bathroom Exhaust Fan — Best Quiet Humidity Sensor Fan
4. Delta BreezIntegrity Humidity Sensing Fan — Best Budget Friendly
5. Aero Pure — Best with Led Light and Humidity Sensor
6. Delta BreezSignature Exhaust Bath Fan — Best For Larger Bathrooms
7. Hampton Bay Humidity Sensing Bath Fan — Best For Compact Bathrooms
How Does Humidity Sensors Work?
Humidity sensors are devices that work with less human supervision. They are mostly used in an environment with high chances of humidity and come with a thermometer to give accurate reading of temperature conditions.
In bathrooms, the thermometer is set between 25% to 75%, while the timer is programmed to work at a specific interval. Using this timer is dependent on how much time the moisture would take to get sucked out of the bathroom.
What Are The Benefits Of Installing A Humidity Sensing Bathroom Fan?
When installed, a humidity sensing bathroom fan will achieve the following in your home.
Fight against diseases
Like a watchman, humidity sensing fans keep a close eye on moisture. They work round the clock ensuring that germs, molds, and other bacteria don’t find a breathing ground in your bathroom. As a result, an absence of these bacteria will reduce the chances of you getting ill.
Eliminates Odors
Bathrooms are notorious for harboring odors. Sometimes the smell that oozes out might be embarrassing, to not just you but your visitors. But the good news is that these bad odors can be dispelled simply by installing a humidity sensing fan.
Maintains Bathroom Furniture
When the bathroom becomes moist; paints, furniture, and other wall decoration suffer. While everyone may not be keen to replace their furniture, we should maintain them. Therefore, to save cost accruing from the expenses in renovating your home, make sure you install a bathroom fan
Saves Utility Bill
With the built-in humidity and motion sensors, you can rest assured of a reduced utility bill. Rather than working non-stop like a typical fan, the sensors in these models helps save energy by timing the unit to work only when you use the bathroom.
Automatic Control
If you are the forgetful type or have kids who don’t bother turning on the exhaust fan, this unit is perfect for your home. The fan sensor is designed to work automatically, turning on by itself, and making sure that the bathroom is ventilated at all times.
6 Things To Consider When Selecting The Best Bathroom Fan With A Humidity Sensor?
When choosing the best bathroom fan with a humidity sensor, there are five things you should consider before making a decision, which includes:
1. Bathroom Size
This is the first thing you must put into consideration when it involves choosing a fan. For most bathrooms, ventilation rates based on eight air changes per hour are the general rule. This translates to one CFM per square foot of the bathroom area. In this instance, a 5′ x 10′ sized bathroom would need a 50 CFM. The same applies to a 10′ x 10′ sq. ft. which will require a 100 CFM. On the other hand, if your bathroom is 80 sq. ft., the recommended rating would become 80 CFM.
2. Airflow Needs
Airflow relates to how much air the fan can exhaust. This is one of the yardsticks used in measuring the strength of your fan. A weak and undersized fan might be devastating for your bathroom. Not only does it double your expenses, but it will also produce poor performance, and still keep the bathroom underventilated. The same applies to a strong fan for a small bathroom as it can drain your energy bills. This is why you must ensure that each fan you purchase fits the size of the space it is intended for.
3. Fan Speed
The fan speed is rated by its CFM (Cubic feet per minute of air). As a rule, bathroom fans accelerate based on how you set them. For instance, If you choose a 120 CFM in a fan capacity of 130, you’ll discover an increase in the speed, but if you tune it down to 80 CFM, the fan acceleration will reduce. Fans also come with a fixed or adjustable speed. Some fans might have both with a low and high setting, which helps to increase or reduce the speed setting.
4. Sensor Type
Fan sensors work in two ways. The first is the humidity sensor that tracks and acts decisively on moisture increase. The other one is the motion sensor mainly focused on human movement in the bathroom. Importantly, most fans are equipped with each of these sensors, while some come with only a humidity sensor.
Yet, one thing to note about the sensors is that they work automatically. But, in situations where your wall switch is single — comprising both the fan and sensor wiring — you might want to consider using the humidity mode. This means that with just one switch you can click the sensor to run freely, and by double-clicking the switch again, you command the fan to run manually.
5. Fan Housing
For a perfect installation, your ceiling joist should determine what size of fan you should purchase. If your vent is wall ducted, go for a fan with a small housing size. As small-sized fans fit well for walls, large size fans are the mainstay for ceilings.
The same applies if you have an old ceiling duct. Rather than buy an oversized fan that will hardly fit your old vent, try a direct replacement fan. When we talk about the housing size, we mean the plastic or metal covering of the exhaust fan. And this bulk must be screwed into the ceiling joist. Otherwise, you might be forced to start cutting off the joist if the fan is too small, or adding boards to hold it from falling off if the fan is undersized. More reason why you must measure your housing size before buying an exhaust fan.
6. Noise Level
The noise level of a bathroom fan is calculated in sones. Admittedly, the sone rating determines the level of loudness that the fan emits during ventilation. A bathroom fan should have below 1.5 sones to be considered quiet. Anything above 2.5 sones is considered noisy. Therefore, if you want a fan devoid of disturbances, go for models with low sone ratings.
Top 7 Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan With Humidity Sensor
1. Broan-Nutone Humidity-Sensing Ventilation Fan — Best With Automatic Sensor
- VERSATILE FAN: Ventilation fan helps eliminate , tobacco smoke, and cooking odors in a near-silent performance in rooms up to 105 sq. ft. to keep your house smelling fresh and clean
- EFFICIENT: Operates at 110 CFM and 0.7 Sones and is motor engineered for continuous operation to provide the best performance
- EASY INSTALLATION: Includes 6" ducting for high-quality performance and hanger bars to provide a fast installation in 2" x 8" construction spaces
- SENSOR: Automatically powers on once it detects a rise in and features an auto on/off switch programmable from 5-60 minutes
- SAFE: This ENERGY STAR* qualified fan is HIV certified and UL listed for use over bathtub or shower when installed with a GFCI protected branch circuit
Last update on 2023-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
With Broan, you can create a healthy bathroom for you and your family. Choose this unit if you want an automatic sensing fan that neutralizes humidity.
When turned on, the Broan can run consistently for about 10 hours, working tough to eliminate moisture and shutting off when not in use. It boasts an adjustable auto-switch that provides more runtime to complete an unfinished bathroom ventilation.
For a silent operation, however, you can trust the Broan to run noiselessly. At 0.7 sones, this exhaust fan won’t disturb your peace. While at 110 CFM, it will eliminate humidity for bathrooms sizes of up to 105 sq. ft.
Regardless of performance, installing the Broan requires a much wider duct to fit in. Since its 6-inch housing is too large for old homes, it only fits newly constructed ceilings. Therefore, when installing, ensure you cut a bigger duct that would be big enough to size the unit. You might also want to redo your drywall if duct size remains difficult to cut through.
In all, the Broan-Nutone is a great unit that is fairly priced. Also included in this package is a hanger bar system for easy installation and a 6-inch duct connector for efficient retrofitting. If you dislike the over-sensitivity of the auto-switch, make use of the manual switch. This alternative switch allows you to turn the unit on and off at any point in time.
Pros
- Adjustable auto-switch
- Robust hanger bars for easy installation
- Easily detects a rapid rise in humidity
- Energy-saving sensor
- Great suction power
Cons
- Fit for only wider duct size
- Sensor easily gets triggered in dry climate
2. Panasonic WhisperSense Ventilation Fan With Motion and Humidity Sensors — Top Pick
- Installation: Features a 4 or 6-inch duct adaptor ideal for renovations, assisted living and dorms
- Precision Spot Ventilation: Quiet and powerful ventilation while removing moisture and pollution
- Dual Sensor Technology: Provides built-in redundancy for automatic moisture and odor control
- Flexible Installation: Comes with Flex-Z Fast bracket for easy, fast and trouble-free installation
- Energy Star Rated: Delivers powerful airflow without wasting energy
Last update on 2023-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you want a bathroom fan with complete features, consider the Whi
sperSense from Panasonic. Aside from topping the highest rating on Amazon, this unit is our top pick for the best bathroom exhaust fan with a humidity sensor.
Unlike the Broan, WhisperSense is replete with amazing customer-friendly combos. First, is the motion sensor which turns on when someone enters the bathroom. Then, you have the energy-saving humidity sensors designed to shut-off the unit after use. Both of these options work automatically and are ideal for people who forget to switch on the fan when in the bathroom.
For lightning, however, the WhisperSense comes with a Led light. You can use this light to brighten dark areas, walking in and out of your bathroom without hurting your foot. Since the LED offers an attractive option, you might want to consider also another selling point — the sones. The fan operates at 0.3 sones which ensures a much quiet operation. And except you aren’t told, you would barely know that it’s on.
There’s also a Pick-A-Flow switch used to select fan speed. As a norm, this allows you to choose the most comfortable airflow of your choice. You can switch between 50 CFM if your bathroom size is small, or to a larger 110 CFM. Thus, gaining the flexibility to customize your airflow speed.
Pros
- Whisper-quiet fan
- Auto shut humidity sensors
- Flexible fan speed selector
- Bright led light
- Programmable motion sensor
Cons
- Advanced settings makes it difficult to install
- Poor customer service
3. Kaze Appliance Bathroom Exhaust Fan With Humidity Sensor — Best Quiet Humidity Sensor Fan
- CEILING OPENING SIZE - Please note the ceiling opening requirement is 11 3/8 x 10 1/2 inch, resizing your ceiling opening will be needed if existing fan size is different.
- SUPER QUIET - Sound level of 0.3-Sones at 120-CFM. Suitable for bathroom size up to 120 square feet.
- HUMIDITY SENSING - Automatically switch on/off the fan unit to maintain desirable humidity level and hands free operation.
- INSTALLATION - Attic access required. Sliding hanger bars allow fan housing to be positioned accurately anywhere between the framing. The bars span up to 24 inch and can be used on all types of framing.
- DUCTING - Removable 6 inch duct with back draft prevention damper. Includes 6 to 4 inch duct reducer.
Last update on 2023-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re looking for a fan that turns on when it perceives a rise in bathroom humidity, choose this unit. The Kaze Appliance may not be as popular as the Panasonic, but when it comes to offering quiet ventilation it works as advertised.
Like the WhisperSense, Kaze Appliance runs silently. It offers a noise level of 0.3 sones, which makes it the best quietest bathroom exhaust fan you would find. It also comes with a delay timer that adds more run time for proper bathroom ventilation. This means that even with a low drop in humidity, the fan will keep working for an extended time of 5 to 30 minutes before it automatically shuts down.
Installing the Kaze is much simpler as well. The unit is equipped with a wiring diagram, which allows you to easily connect to the electrical switch. However, note that the humidity sensor would require a different wiring source so that it can run independently of the fan switch.
Overall, the fan works great. Aside from its galvanized steel that ensures it remains rust-resistant, it’s also fairly priced, featuring an outstanding grille that will complement the aesthetic of your bathroom.
Pros
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Stylish grille to complement bathroom aesthetic
- Active delay timer
- Built-in 6 inch duct adapter
- Adjustable triple point bracket for universal installation
Cons
- Delay timer makes fan wait for about a minute before it starts working
- The wiring diagram is printed wrongly
4. Delta BreezIntegrity Humidity Sensing Fan — Best Budget Friendly
- Energy Star qualified for efficient cost-saving operation
- Hvi, UL, and CUL certified, and can be used to comply with ASHRAE 62.2, UL and CUL listed for tub/shower enclosure when used with gfci-protected branch circuit
- Peace of mind quality, performance and reliability from the world's largest DC brushless Fan manufac
- Built in soft start function to increase bearings life
Last update on 2023-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
For an affordable bathroom sensing fan, try the BreezeIntegrity from Delta. This unit has a modest design that is ideal for shoppers on a low budget.
For what it’s worth, do not let the price tag fool you. Since it is lowly priced, the BreezeIntegrity has been tested by EnergyStar and found to be of high quality. Using this unit guarantees not only 8 years of consistent performance, but also 70,000 hours of satisfying operation.
With a 9.5 watt, this unit will not consume your electricity bill. Each watt has an energy efficiency rating of 8.5 CFM, good enough to vent bathrooms of 80 sq. ft. Besides venting small spaces, the unit also features a noise level of 1.3 sones, which may not be great if you desire a much quieter fan.
Regardless of size, the BreezeIntegrity is a great option for bathrooms. Use this unit if you want a great exhaust fan for tubs and showers. Also, make sure you connect to a gfci-protected branch circuit when in the bathroom as this will help reduce the risk of electric shock in wet areas.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Budget-friendly
- Low power consumption
- Built-in soft start to increase bearings life
- UL listed for use in tubs and showers
Cons
- Not great for bigger bathroom
- Wiring instructions are not clear
5. Aero Pure Bathroom Ceiling Ventilation Fan — Best with Led Light and Humidity Sensor
- Quiet ENERGY STAR qualified 0.9 Sones adjustable speed bathroom fan with 10W 3000K 850 Lumens LED light with 0.7W night light and Humidity Sensor engineered for continuous run
- Choice of three airflow settings- 50,80,110 CFM; set with adjustable switch located on fan body
- Quick mounting adjustable installation brackets and 4”, 5”, and 6” duct adaptor included
- Grille Dimensions- 13“x 13”; Housing Dimensions- 10.31”x 7.5”x 10.39”
- ETL listed for wet application, ENERGY STAR qualified, Title 24/JA8, and ASHRAE 62.2 compliant
Last update on 2023-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Trailing the Delta is the all-powerful Aero Pure ABF110DH. Despite its high price, this model is perfect for those who desire the best bathroom exhaust fan with led light and humidity sensor. To enjoy the benefits that come with a potent exhaust fan, make this unit your reliable option.
As with other superior exhaust fans, the Aero Pure is designed to last long. Therefore, buying this unit will guarantee you a full 6-year warranty policy, and importantly a quick replacement if the unit is damaged or faulty.
The adjustable humidity switch is also top-notch. It features three airflow settings that give you the option of choosing the CFM speed that is perfect for your bathroom. This means that you can toggle between a speed setting of 50 to 110 CFM with ease, and still not exceed the 0.9 sone noise level.
To have an improved brightness in the bathroom, the AeroPure is equipped with a dimmable LED light. This light includes a 3000K high-performance lumen that will help you illuminate an increased amount of lightning in your room. Additionally, you can also switch from its 10W lighting to a more serene 0.7W night light if you want to sleep better.
Pros
- Stylish in look and feel
- Led light and night light inclusive
- Full 6-year warranty
- Rust-resistant housing
- Adjustable installation bracket
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Not ideal for old duct
6. Delta BreezSignature Exhaust Bath Fan with Humidity Sensor — Best For Larger Bathrooms
- Noise level of 2.0 sones
- Precision engineered with DC brushless motor for extended reliability
- Easily switch in and out of humidity sensing mode by toggling wall switch
- ENERGY STAR qualified for efficient cost-saving operation
- Precision engineered with DC brushless motor for extended reliability, this fan will outlast many household appliances
Last update on 2023-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you want a fan designed for larger bathrooms, choose the Delta BreezeSignature. Rated 130 CFM, this unit is made for large-sized spaces, allowing you to vent rooms of up to 130sq. ft.
Its amazing design creates a stylish ambiance in the bathroom. The white grill will fit into any interior decor, while the led indicator beneath the grille makes it easier to identify if the unit is running or not.
The BreezeSignature fan is designed to last a lifetime thanks to its DC brushless motor. With this, you are assured an energy-saving operation for as low as 19.1 Watts, which will save on your utility bills.
However, despite the BreezeSignature value for your money, it might not be as silent in sones. The unit features a noise level of 2.0 sones, which might not be too silent when running.
Pros
- Perfect for larger bathrooms
- Value for money
- Energy-saving operation
- ETL listed for use in wet areas
- DC brushless motor for long-lasting use
- Features Led indicator on fan
Cons
- Too powerful for smaller bathrooms
- Makes loud noise at 2.0 sones
7. Hampton Bay Humidity Sensing Bath Fan — Best For Compact Bathrooms
- Humidity Sensing Bath Fan or manual wall switch control
- Humidity more than 60% will turn the fan on.
- White grille
Last update on 2023-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Unlike the BreezeSignature, Hampton Bay is perfect for small and medium-sized spaces. You might want to try this model if you need a sturdy, and energy-efficient fan for your compact bathroom,
The fan includes a stylish white grille that matches your home interior decor. Meaning that irrespective of your ceiling or wall paint, this unit will blend just fine.
Included also in this unit is an auto-mode for efficient control. This auto-mode is ideal for people who easily forget to switch on their fans when in the shower. In this case, the humidity sensor takes over the job even in your absence, as it tracks down increases in moisture levels in the bathroom.
For installation in old homes, this unit will fit well. It stands tall by being the only fan in this list that is mountable on the wall and ceiling. It’s also has a small size that allows it to fit anywhere, both in new and old constructions. While the unit may not fit bigger duct sizes, it complements a 2 to 4-inch duct, which is the standard size for most fans.
Pros
- Sturdy and compact design
- Ceiling or wall mountable
- Affordable price
- No cut ceiling installation
- Dual-mode humidity sensor
Cons
- Humidity switch is faulty
- Quite noisy
What Is The Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan With A Humidity Sensor?
The best bathroom exhaust fan with a humidity sensor should have certain features that distinguish it from the crowd. In this list, however, are three models that tick the right boxes.
For our top pick, the WhisperSense from Panasonic is the undisputed leader. That’s because it meets the standard requirements we expect in a bathroom sensing fan. At 0.3 sones, you would barely know that this fan is running, which makes it good for those who detest noise in their homes. While at 110 CFM, it allows you to switch between different fan speeds that fit your bathroom needs. Aside from the fan speed, LED’s are another bonus feature you’ll find in the WhisperSense, which helps illuminate light in the bathroom.
Second, on the standings is the Kaze appliance which earns its spot deservedly. Like the WhisperSense, it features a 0.3 sones, but with a much bigger 120 CFM. You might want to consider this unit if you want a bathroom sensing fan with a simple design. It’s sturdy, long-lasting, and great for bigger bathrooms.
The Broan-Nutone comes third, following the Kaze Appliance. This model nicks the top spot for the best bathroom fan with an automatic sensor. The fan is easy to install, featuring hangar bars that are perfect for all types of construction.
FAQ
Do bathroom exhaust fans reduce humidity?
Yes, bathroom exhaust fans are perfect at reducing humidity. They vent out moisture, bad odor, and other unwanted air outside, ushering in fresh oxygen inside the bathroom.
Can you install a bathroom exhaust fan above a shower?
Yes, you can install the fan directly above your shower or over the bathtub. Though, if you want the exhaust fan to impact both systems, placing it between the two objects would be the best. However, make sure you connect to a gfci-protected branch circuit because this will help foil the risk of electric shock in wet areas.
What is the best CFM for Bathroom fans?
The best CFM for your bathroom fan is dependent on your space needs. For bathroom spaces of 50 square feet or smaller, consider an exhaust fan of 50cfm. However, if your space is much larger in square feet go for a bigger CFM fan. Most fans in general are rated between 50 to 130 CFM. Therefore when buying an exhaust fan, ensure you go for models that fit your bathroom size.
Can I mount a bathroom exhaust fan on the wall?
Yes, you can mount a bathroom exhaust fan on the wall by following the installation guidelines in your package. Installing wall vent fans is less cumbersome than ceiling fans since you don’t need retrofitting when mounting. But note that not all fans are great for walls as some come with a large housing which might be perfect for only the ceiling.
Where should I vent my bathroom exhaust fan?
If you’re looking for where to vent your bathroom exhaust fan, try the exterior of your home. Make sure you don’t run the duct in a soffit or under a roof hanger, else the humidity coming out of the exhaust can get drawn into your attic.
Wrap Up
A bathroom with a clean and healthy outlook is a blessing to the home. And the best humidity sensing fan can be the catalyst to achieving that perfection.
You can check out our review of the best bathroom exhaust fans with light and heater to find the model that will do more than just remove excess moisture.
