Before You Begin
Can you use a replacement kit instead of replacing the entire fan?
For improved performance, you may need to purchase a fullbathroom vent fan.
Permits and Codes
A permit may not be required to replace a bathroom exhaust fan.
Sadeugra / Getty Images
Check with your local permitting office.
The new fan and installation must comply withexhaust fan codesset forth in theInternational Residential Code.
Motor/blower replacements are less expensive and save on the hassle and mess of replacing the fan housing.
Remove the Fan Grille
Remove the grille on the exhaust fan.
Many exhaust fans have spring clips that disengage by pulling the grille away from the fan body.
Unplug the Motor/Blower
Unplug the fan motor/blower unit within the fan housing.
This is a short two-wire double-prong plug.
Unplug this wire and leave it hanging.
In some cases, you may need to push tabs to disengage the motor plate.
Look at the edge of the housing with a flashlight.
Often, there is an inscription that tells you how to remove the motor plate.
Remove the Motor/Blower Unit
Tilt or pivot the motor plate downward and remove it from the housing.
implement the New Motor/Blower Unit
First, vacuum out the housing to remove dust and cobwebs.
Then, insert the new motor/blower unit.
Plug In the Motor/Blower Unit
Plug the motor blower unit in again.
Turn on the circuit breaker and test the fan.
Replace the Grille
Squeeze the two wire clips together and fit them into the fan housing.
Press the grill up until it locks into place against the ceiling.
Turn off the power to the bathroom fan at thecircuit breaker panel.
Gently lower the fan housing and its attached blower/motor unit.
Have an assistant hold the fan housing while you remove the duct and the electrical wire from the fan.
Cut it as close to the fan as possible.
Strip the ends of each coated wire.
Add a cable clamp to the bathroom fan.
spin up the wire through the cable clamp, then screw the clamp tightly down.
Secure the duct with clamps or duct tape.
Screw it into place against the joists from below.
Drive the screws through the lip on the bottom of the housing, up into the joists.
Some models may require the screws to be driven in through the side of the housing.
Test the Bathroom Fan
Flip on the circuit breaker.
Turn on the bathroom fan at the wall switch.
Confirm that the fan is working.
Squeeze the two wire clips on the grille together.
Fit the clips into the receiving slots on the fan housing.
Continue to push until the grille locks firmly into place against the ceiling.
Fans that require attic access are similarly difficult to install.
Call a professional in either situation.
Since a previous bathroom fan was in place, the wire should be transferrable to the new bathroom fan.
Wiring is usually a straightforward one-for-one match from the old fan to the new fan.
It costs from $50 to $150 to replace a bathroom exhaust fan.
Beyond the cost of the fan, there are few other costs, if any.
International Residential Code (IRC) Section M1507.4
International Residential Code (IRC) Section M1507.2
