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If you're starting to notice strange noises coming from your bathroom extractor fan or if it's not doing its job as efficiently as it used to, it may be time to consider replacing it, especially before winter arrives.  A properly functioning extractor fan plays a crucial role in maintaining good air quality in your bathroom, preventing the build-up of mould and mildew, and reducing excess humidity.
The Bathroom Showroom understands the importance of choosing a high-quality extractor fan to keep this space healthy and happy all year round. And with winter on the way, there's never been a better time to make sure your bathroom is well-equipped for the months ahead. Here we offer four potential signs that indicate it may be time to buy a new extractor fan. 

4 Signs Your Bathroom Extractor Fan May Need Replacing

A faulty or failing bathroom extractor fan can lead to long-term moisture and mould issues in your home. It's time to consider replacing your fan if you notice any of the following signs:

1. Poor or Ineffective Ventilation

This is the most critical sign that the fan is failing at its primary job to remove moisture and odours.
  • Excessive Condensation: After a shower, the bathroom mirror, walls, and windows remain heavily fogged for a long time (more than 10-15 minutes).
  • Lingering Humidity: The air in the bathroom feels thick, humid, or stuffy well after the fan has been running.
  • Stubborn Odours: Unpleasant smells linger in the room despite the fan being on.
  • The "Tissue Test" Fails: While the fan is running, hold a single square of toilet paper against the grille. A fan with good suction should be able to hold the paper firmly in place. If the paper flutters and falls, the suction is too weak.
  • Visible Signs of Damage: You start seeing mould or mildew growth on the walls, ceiling, or grout, or notice the paint or wallpaper beginning to peel.

2. Unusual or Excessive Noise

While all fans make some noise, a significant change in the sound usually indicates a failing motor or bearing.
  • Loud Grinding or Rumbling: This is often a sign of worn-out motor bearings, which creates friction and suggests the fan is nearing the end of its life.
  • High-Pitched Squealing or Screeching: Similar to grinding, this points to failing bearings and a motor that is under extreme stress.
  • Loud Rattling or Clattering: This can sometimes be fixed with a deep clean (to remove debris) or by tightening loose screws, but if the noise persists, it may mean a broken or unbalanced fan blade.

3. Operational Problems

The fan's function is sluggish or unreliable.
  • Fan Runs Slowly: The fan blade is visibly spinning much slower than it used to, or it takes a long time to get up to speed.
  • Fan Doesn't Turn On: The fan doesn't start at all, even when you flip the switch. (This could also be a simple issue like a tripped breaker or a faulty wall switch, but it often points to a burned-out motor.)
  • Smell of Burning: If you ever smell burning plastic or electrical components coming from the fan, turn it off immediately. This is a fire hazard and requires immediate professional inspection and likely replacement.

4. Age and Condition

  • Old Age: The average lifespan of a bathroom extractor fan is about 10 years. If your fan is significantly older than this, it is likely less energy-efficient and its performance is naturally degraded, making replacement a good preventative measure.
  • Visible Wear and Tear: You notice heavy rust or excessive dirt/mold buildup inside the fan housing that can't be cleaned easily, which suggests internal corrosion.
If the problem is just a buildup of dust and grime, a thorough cleaning might fix it. However, if the issue is noise or poor suction from a worn-out motor, the only effective solution is usually a full replacement. For any electrical work, always consult a qualified electrician.

Why Choose The Bathroom Showroom For Your Extractor Fan?

Choosing The Bathroom Showroom for all your ventilation requirements gives you access to a range of key advantages when creating your perfect space. Here are the main reasons to choose a specialist supplier like us for your bathroom ventilation:
Expert Knowledge: All our showrooms are knowledgeable about the specific ventilation requirements, particularly the UK's Building Regulations Document F, which dictates minimum extraction rates (e.g. 15 litres per second). This means our bathroom experts can help you select a fan that ensures your installation is legal and effective.
Room Sizing: We can guide you on calculating the correct fan size Litres per Second or Cubic Metres per Hour needed for your specific bathroom volume to effectively combat condensation.
Different Fan Types: We offer all the main types of fans to suit any bathroom layout:
- Axial Fans: For bathrooms with short duct runs (near an an external wall).
- Centrifugal Fans: More powerful, ideal for longer duct runs or rooms not on an external wall.
- In-Line/Loft Fans: Extremely quiet, installed in the ceiling void or loft for discreet operation and long duct runs.
Advanced Features: You get access to fans with specific, helpful features:
Humidistat: Automatically turns the fan on when moisture levels rise.
Timer/Run-On Timer: Keeps the fan running for a set period after the light switch is turned off.
Low Sone/Silent Fans: Essential for en-suite bathrooms where noise is a concern.
IP-Rated Fans: Fans specifically rated for installation directly over a shower or bath (zone 1 or Zone 2).
  • The Bathroom Showroom Focuses on Quality and Durability
Trade-Grade Products: Our showrooms often stock higher-quality, trade-grade ventilation units from leading manufacturers like Vent-Axia, Manrose, or Airflow, which are generally more durable and reliable than cheaper consumer models.
Full System Solutions: We don’t just sell the fan; we offer the entire ventilation system, including high-quality ducting, external grilles, and necessary accessories to ensure the system works efficiently.
  • The Bathroom Showroom Offers Professional Support and Advice
Technical Guidance: Our dedicated staff are experts in their field and highly trained to advise on complex technical issues, such as dealing with condensation in long duct runs or selecting the best solution for a room without an external wall.
Aesthetic Integration: All Bathroom Showroom staff can help you choose a fan that integrates cleanly with your bathroom design, offering various grille finishes (white, chrome, etc.).

Get Your Bathroom Sorted For Winter

Overall, choosing a professional company like The Bathroom Showroom means you’re buying a ventilation solution that is compliant, correctly sized, high-quality, and supported by expert advice, rather than just buying an electrical appliance. This significantly reduces the risk of long-term problems like dampness and mould, ensuring a healthier and happier space in the home for everyone to enjoy all year round. 
If you’re looking for further help with creating a healthy bathroom this season and beyond, book an appointment with The Bathroom Showroom. Experts in all things bathrooms, we can help turn your dream bathroom into a reality.