Bathroom Extractor Fans

Featuring the best extractor fans in New Zealand 

Bathroom extractor fans are important because they help to remove excess moisture and unpleasant odours from the air, preventing mould growth and maintaining good indoor air quality. They also help to protect the integrity of walls and fixtures by reducing humidity levels, which can damage paint, wallpaper, and fixtures over time. ArchiPro features only the best extractor fans from trusted suppliers in New Zealand. They are an important part of a wider range of high-quality bathroom heating and ventilation solutions that you can consider as part of your bathroom renovation.  

Types of bathroom extractor fans

Window extractor fans

Window extraction fans are effective bathroom ventilation products that range from simple, traditional models to innovative reversible models equipped with remotes and thermostats. A reversible window fan is exceptionally convenient, as it allows switching from intake to exhaust when required. The downside of window fans is that they are susceptible to weather conditions.

Ceiling extractor fans

Ceiling-mount extractor fans are popular in New Zealand and typically connect to an exhaust duct running between floors. This type is ideal for bathrooms where window fans are not the best solution. However, if ventilation through the ceiling is also not an option, wall-mounting is another good alternative. It allows venting directly through the wall, requiring little or no ductwork. 

Silent bathroom extractor fans

Bathrooms are most relaxing when they are quiet, peaceful sanctuaries which make silent extractor fans very appealing. These models are designed to reduce noise and are equipped with motors to do so.

Inline extractor fans

Inline fans get their name from its installation method where the fan is mounted inline, either inside or connected to ducting. Instead of sitting directly on the ceiling or wall, an inline exhaust fan is typically mounted away from the bathroom, like inside the attic. Mounting the extractor fan away from the living area eliminates the noise issues, allowing for the use of very powerful models. It's particularly useful for homes in New Zealand with large bathrooms and sets that service multiple rooms.

Shower extractor fans

The advantage of shower extractor fans is their proximity to the source of moisture which greatly improves its ability to remove steam from the environment. They do need an adequate IP rating (Ingress Protection) to ensure water and moisture doesn’t get into the circuitry but most modern shower fans have that.

Things to consider when buying a bathroom extractor fan

Apart from the budget and style, essential factors to keep in mind before choosing a bathroom fan in New Zealand are its power and airflow capacity, noise level and any special features. The extractor fan should be powerful enough to fulfil its function and ventilate the bathroom properly yet energy efficient at the same time. The room size is the key determining factor to calculate the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of the fan — in other words, the volume of air the fan can put into motion. A fan with an insufficient CFM rating will not be efficient in removing odours. Additionally, it will have to work longer, which will cause its motor to wear out faster. The average estimation of the fan capacity ratio is 1CFM per 0.1 m2. Some models in New Zealand with a higher CFM require a larger exhaust duct diameter. Noise levels are displayed in the fan's sone rating with a higher rating indicating a louder fan. A sone rating of 1 or less equals the sound level made by a refrigerator and is considered quiet for a bathroom fan. By taking all these aspects into account you’ll ensure you pick a high-quality product that will give you confidence and peace of mind.

Other bathroom heating and ventilation products to consider

If you’re doing a full bathroom renovation there are some other bathroom and ventilation products that you should seriously consider. Bathroom heaters are one such example, especially for the winter seasons, when bathrooms can particularly cold. Heated towel rails are another, these days a must for any modern renovation. Last but not least, under tile heating is a luxurious addition to incorporate, providing a lovely warm feeling underfoot that will completely redefine your bathroom experience.