TOP 12 Best Exhaust Fans

Every room needs forced ventilation for the comfort of the people living inside, especially the kitchen and bathroom. Many users do not know in what cases exhaust fans can be installed and what power they should be. Manufacturers of such equipment sometimes offer an exhaust fan with a check valve to solve all the problems that arise due to the specific nuances of the use of these rooms.

Exhaust fan manufacturers

To make life comfortable, different companies produce modern technology, instruments, and devices. And for many buyers, the company’s face, its reputation and recognition are the decisive selection criteria. Others do not want to overpay on brands, but are looking for reliable suppliers. The best exhaust fans in 2021 presented:

Ballu is a trademark owned by the multinational company Ballu Industrial Group. It specializes in climate control engineering technology, with which it has entered the world market since 1990. The main office is located in Hong Kong, production plants in Japan, Korea, Russia, China, Lithuania, Poland. The equipment began to arrive on the Russian market in 2003, its representative office is Rusklimat.
Auramax is a Russian brand of products for ventilation systems, these include household fans, grilles, inspection hatches, etc. The main difference is the combination of affordability with quality workmanship, modern design. The materials are characterized by a long service life and high wear resistance due to protection against overheating.
Erre is an Italian company producing high-tech climate control equipment. Experience in this area has exceeded 70 years. In 1995, the ISO 9001 quality certificate was awarded. The official dealer is the Vencon company. The last decade of activity has been aimed at popularizing the Italian approach to business and design.
Vortice is an Italian climate control company that has been supplying reliable, high-quality ventilation equipment for over 60 years. The emphasis is on aesthetics. Representative offices have been opened in different countries to expand borders.
Vents is a large Russian company of climate control equipment, selling an assortment of millions of units. In production, international quality standards are taken into account. Thanks to this, the brand is a member of the association of climate industry experts. Founded in the 90s of the last century, since then 16 large workshops have been opened.
ERA is a large domestic company producing climate control equipment, which began its activities in 1997. At first, production was aimed at producing modular ventilation systems; the company was called Ecovent LLC. Today the range includes about 1,300 items, and sales volume reaches 30 million units.
Cata is a Spanish company producing kitchen hoods and industrial ventilation systems. It began its activities back in 1947. In a short time, it has become famous throughout the world for its air purification technology. Full company name – CataElectrodomesticos SL
Diciti is a brand of high quality commercial/industrial fans owned by ERA. The company was founded in 1997. A series of products is created according to unique designs by leading designers. In addition to aesthetics, the manufacturer focuses on innovation.
Soler & Palau is a well-known Spanish manufacturer of fans. Blagovest is the representative in Russia. Factories are dispersed in other countries - the USA, China, Europe, India. Founded in 1951. Since 1987, products have been certified according to ISO-9001 standards, since 1989 - ISO-9001/2000.
Electrolux is a Swedish company of household and professional appliances founded in 1919. Initially engaged in the production of kerosene lamps, then quickly became a leader, retraining in another industry. The annual production volume is more than 60 million units. All products are sold to 150 countries around the world. The main slogan is “Made wisely.”
Blauberg is a popular manufacturer of ventilation equipment from Germany. There are 7 factories located in different parts of Europe. The volume of produced equipment exceeded 100 million units. The brand successfully balances between the aesthetic, quality, and functional characteristics of its models.

Device design

The check valve for all similar devices for home use is made of plastic. The specific design of the check valve is widely used in various exhaust systems for various rooms and kitchen hoods. It is based on the principle of operation of butterfly wings: during flight they are straightened, and the rest of the time they are folded. Two equal halves reliably shut off the air supply inside the room after the fan stops working using special springs - they are opened by the blown mass of air.

This design, along with obvious advantages, has some disadvantages:

opening the valve flaps consumes engine energy, so the fan efficiency decreases slightly;
The valve flaps do not have sufficient tightness.

But in everyday life, such a fan copes with all duties perfectly.

Exhaust Fan Rating

Properly designed and installed ventilation equipment guarantees clean air, absence of humidity, condensation and the ensuing consequences. The overhead type is distinguished not only by shape and size, but also by quality and functional characteristics. Experts assessed each nominee on a group of criteria:

Productivity – air exchange rate;
Dimensions – compliance with the geometric dimensions of the ventilation shaft area;
Diameter – from 80 to 200 mm;
Safety – protection from moisture, shock, overheating, power surges;
Noise level – recommended no higher than 35-55 dB;
Additional options – humidity sensor, motion sensor, timer;
Installation method: surface-mounted, built-in, ceiling;
Type of design – axial, radial, centrifugal;
Materials – quality, resistance to external influences, wear;
Design – classic, modern innovative models;
Control method – electronic, remote, automatic start/shutdown.

Only the most popular models that meet the needs of customers were included in the review. After analyzing the reviews, the magazine's editors determined the advantages and disadvantages of each nominee and compared the stated characteristics with the real ones. This helped to weed out products with inflated promises and short service life.

The best thermostats

TOP 10 best offers

It is important to buy a good fan that is ideal in terms of technical characteristics and design for your bathroom. You can install and connect the device yourself.

Therefore, we offer you the best ten silent models on the market. The rating list includes the best-selling and popular devices from Russian and foreign manufacturers with a check valve. Over the past year, these are the models most often purchased from online stores and offline supermarkets specializing in the sale of home appliances.

Place #1 – ERA FAVORITE 4C-01 16 W

The exhaust device of the domestic brand is equipped with a durable ABS plastic body with good resistance to ultraviolet radiation. An aerodynamically shaped impeller provides a high level of performance and reduced background noise.

The unit is equipped with a spring-loaded check valve with two flaps. This element prevents reverse draft from the main ventilation duct and prevents extraneous unpleasant odors from entering the room.

Technical specifications:

type of mechanism - axial
at what speed does air exchange take place – 95 m3/hour
power characteristics – 16 W
control option - mechanics
number of speed modes – 1
useful extras – with power cable and switch
background sound – 35 dB
weight – 0.55 kg

Despite the high base power and the ability to quickly remove unpleasant odors, smoke and strong aromas from the room, the unit is moderately noisy and consumes a minimal amount of electrical energy.

Stable and high-quality operation is ensured by a modern ball-bearing motor with a progressive overheating protection system during operation.

Rubber gaskets reliably protect the interior of the case and electronic components from moisture, direct splashes and drops. Installation is carried out in an overhead manner. The block is inserted into the air outlet channel and fixed on top with screws.

Users have no complaints about the model. The unit behaves most effectively in small bathrooms, showers and other small sanitary and hygienic premises.

Place #2 – HELIOS M1/100

An elegant and stylish exhaust fan from a famous German brand belongs to the premium segment of household appliances. It has an attractive and stylish appearance, saves energy and is quiet during operation.

Effectively removes excess moisture, unpleasant odors, smoke and intrusive aromas from the room. It has two speed modes: standard and enhanced. When the second one is activated, it changes the musty air into something fresher and more pleasant to breathe in 3-5 minutes.

Technical specifications:

type of working mechanism – axial
air exchange rate – 90 m3/hour
power – 9 W
control principle – mechanical
speed limit – 2
important additions - moisture-proof housing, UltraSilence technology, which ensures silent operation even with accelerated rotation of the fan blades
noise level – 30 dB
weight – 0.8 kg

The exquisitely laconic design of the external panel is one of the main advantages of the unit. Thanks to this, the exhaust fan fits harmoniously into any interior design of a bathroom, shower room or toilet. Users also note the almost silent operation of the fan and reasonable energy consumption with high air exchange efficiency.

I really like the ability to change the speed mode from standard to turbo for faster removal of intrusive aromas and unpleasant odors.

As a minus, customers highlight only the high cost of the product, which significantly exceeds the prices for similar domestic products.

Place #3 – ERA COMFORT 4C 16 W

The unit with a check valve compares favorably with similar devices with its eye-catching design. The ventilation hole is located in the center of the facade, covered with a curved plastic grille. Despite such an unusual configuration, the device is not inferior in efficiency and performance to standard-style modules.

The exhaust fan is available in white. Therefore, a model is chosen when it is successfully combined with the existing decorative design.

The facade panel does not require complex and painstaking maintenance. It can be easily removed, washed under running water using a delicate plastic cleaner, dried and quickly put back in place.

Technical specifications:

type of mechanism - axial
at what speed does air exchange take place – 95 m3/hour
power characteristics – 16 W
control option – mechanical
number of speed modes – 1
useful additions - protection against overheating
background sound – 35 dB
weight – 0.5 kg

Endurance and high performance allow the device to be used for both periodic and continuous ventilation of bathrooms, toilets and showers.

The device is mounted in air exhaust shafts or ventilation lines. Demonstrates high performance and is ahead of many of his classmates in this parameter.

The company is positioning it as a premium option, but is sold at a reasonable price. Has a branded five-year warranty and is serviced in certified service centers.

Place #4 – ERA SLIM 4ET 14 W

The Slim exhaust fan differs from similar products in its record thin front panel. It looks elegant on the wall and adds modernity and style to the room. Suitable for both periodic and permanent maintenance of bathrooms, toilets and showers.

A spring-loaded check valve with two flaps made of ABS plastic prevents unpleasant odors from entering the room from the common ventilation shaft.

Technical specifications:

type of working mechanism – axial
air exchange rate – 90 m3/hour
power – 14 W
control principle – mechanics
speed limit – 1
important additions – timer, maximum operating temperature 40 °C
noise level – 39 dB
weight – 0.5 kg

The low background noise level allows the unit to be installed in small apartments and city studios, where the bathroom is adjacent to the bedroom and living room.

Despite its ultra-thin design, the exhaust fan works very efficiently and quickly removes all unpleasant odors from the room. The internal engine has good endurance and can easily withstand intense operating loads.

Modern ABS plastic is used to produce the housing, impeller and front panel of the fan. Thanks to its durability and specific physical characteristics, the device looks good and performs its functions clearly throughout the entire period of use.

Place #5 – Soler & Palau SILENT-100 CZ DESIGN

An elegant and stylish device from the famous Spanish manufacturer looks neat in the interior. The internal motor is attached to the body using rubber-metal bushings. They soften vibration and neutralize noise effects.

The single-phase electric motor is equipped with ball bearings, operates without interruption and does not require maintenance throughout the entire operating period.

The exhaust fan with a flat outer panel is convenient and practical. It is very easy to keep in order. If stains or dirt appear on the facade, they can be quickly removed with a microfiber cloth and a delicate detergent.

Technical specifications:

type of mechanism - axial
at what speed does air exchange take place – 85 m3/h
power characteristics – 8 W
control option - mechanics
number of speed modes – 1
useful additions - IP45 safety class, high-endurance ball-bearing motor, specially shaped protective grille that reduces noise effect
sound background – 26 dB
weight – 0.65 kg

Impeccable build quality, elegant appearance and high performance are the main advantages of the unit. It consumes a minimum of electricity and quickly changes the air in the room.

It functions normally at temperatures up to +40 °C, has a high waterproofing class and built-in thermal protection.

The model’s body is completely sealed and completely prevents water drops, splashes and moisture from getting inside. The check valve reliably protects the room from the penetration of unpleasant odors and aggressive aromas from the outside.

Place #6 – Vents 100 LD 14 W

The household unit with laconic lines and shapes is presented not only in the traditional white color, but also in black, red, blue, and green shades. This makes it possible to use the fan as a useful technique and a striking decorative element.

The housing, impeller and outer panel are made of advanced ABS plastic. It is resistant to the external environment, easily tolerates direct ultraviolet radiation and maintains a presentable appearance throughout its entire service life.

Technical specifications:

type of working mechanism – axial
air exchange rate – 88 m3/h
power – 14 W
control principle – mechanics
speed limit – 1
important additions - waterproof housing
noise level – 36 dB
weight – 0.6 kg

To ensure that the device stays firmly on the outlet of the air shaft and does not vibrate during operation, all joints and connections must be very carefully sealed with silicone. For additional reliability, you can use clamps and mounting tape.

During installation, the exhaust module can be connected to an individual external switch or the system can be configured so that the fan is activated simultaneously with the lighting in the bathroom, shower or toilet.

The equipment kit includes four screws. With their help it is very easy and convenient to attach the housing to the wall surface.

Place #7 – VENTS 100 QUIET-STYLE 7.5 W

The compact unit with a flat outer panel and a shortened pipe is suitable for installation in a ventilation shaft and allows connection to air exhaust communications.

In the output part of the device there are innovative air stream rectifiers. They reduce the level of turbulence, increase the overall air pressure and significantly reduce the noise effect that occurs during operation.

Technical specifications:

type of mechanism - axial
at what speed does air exchange take place – 90 m³/hour
power characteristics – 7.5 W
control option - mechanics
number of speed modes – 1
useful additions - multi-level cabinet moisture protection
background sound – 26 dB
weight – 0.66 kg

The household appliance has built-in effective moisture protection class IP 45. All electronic elements are carefully sealed and are not afraid of accidental contact with water drops, condensation or splashes.

Customers note the stylish appearance of the device, good moisture resistance and simplified installation as advantages. Opinions were divided regarding the noise level.

Some users say that the model sounds stronger during operation than previous versions. Other owners claim that you quickly get used to the sound and it stops irritating your ears.

Place #8 – Blauberg Sileo 100 7.5 W

The stylish, powerful and durable device fully complies with all international standards for household equipment. Quickly sucks out aggressive aromas from the room.

Thanks to the presence of a check valve, it prevents unpleasant, intrusive odors from getting inside.

Before hitting store shelves, household exhaust fans undergo mandatory testing. In this way, manufacturing defects are identified and the possibility of the client purchasing initially faulty products is negated.

Technical specifications:

type of working mechanism – axial
air exchange rate – 90 m³/hour
power – 7.5 W
control principle – mechanical
speed limit – 1
important additions - double class of insulation from external influences, compliance with IP45 standards
noise level – 25 dB
weight – 0.6 kg

A modern engine that ensures normal operation of the fan is mounted on special dampers. They absorb vibration without transmitting it to the device body. This helps to significantly reduce background noise.

For the manufacture of the housing and impeller, the manufacturer uses modern high-strength plastic. This material is not afraid of temperature changes, maintains the integrity of the structure, does not creak or turn yellow during operation.

Place #9 – MMOTORS MM 100

The Bulgarian company MMOTORS has large production facilities and produces household appliances using modern German equipment.

The brand's products are sold in Russia, the European Union and the Middle East. The combination of optimal price and excellent quality makes ventilation devices popular and in demand in the consumer market.

The model is equipped with a compact but powerful engine. Immediately after switching on, it systematically renews the air in the room and creates a comfortable atmosphere, not spoiled by strong odors.

Technical specifications:

type of mechanism - axial
at what speed does air exchange take place – 60 m3/h
power characteristics – 16 W
control option - mechanics
number of speed modes – 1
useful additions - electric motor from the Japanese concern NSK, encapsulated ball bearings
background sound – 27 dB
timer - no

This ultra-thin fan from a popular Bulgarian brand is unpretentious to environmental conditions and can operate at temperatures up to +100 °C. The design does not include a check valve.

The device is connected to a standard single-phase network. Has a European certificate of compliance with the established parameters.

Place #10 – AURA DiCiTi 4C MR

The low-noise, optimally powerful unit correctly serves the bathroom, shower or toilet. It operates in one speed mode, is not afraid of intense loads and does not require maintenance.

The exhaust fan is equipped with a progressive timer. This useful option allows the user to schedule in advance the moment when the equipment is turned on to create a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere in the room.

Technical specifications:

type of working mechanism – axial
air exchange rate – 90 m3/hour
power – 8.4 W
control principle – mechanical
speed limit – 1
important additions - spring-loaded double-leaf check valve, modern motor with reduced sound effect, shortened flange, lead-free electronic components
noise level – 25 dB
weight – 0.7 kg

The device body is equipped with additional rubberized inserts. They absorb vibration, effectively dampen background sounds and seal the internal space, preventing accidental splashes or drops of water from entering there.

The Fusion Logic controller is a multi-mode timer and makes it possible to control the module according to an individually selected program.

Which exhaust fan is better?

To buy an exhaust fan for the kitchen, bath, shower and other rooms with insufficient oxygen circulation, you first need to find a reliable manufacturer. Next, compare the potential with the service area, the price with the approximate service life. Based on a comparative analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of each nominee, the experts summed up the following review results:

Ballu Green Energy GE-150 – a basic model with an optimal balance of characteristics;
Auramax Optima 5C is a universal compact device of domestic production;
Erre Cromo 12/5 – expanded functionality, automatic operation of the check valve;
Cata E-100 G – panel design, compliance with international standards;
Diciti AURA 4C – quiet due to the motor on ball bearings, light weight;
Soler & Palau Silent-200 CHZ Design 3C – powerful air exchange, reliable assembly;
Cata X-Mart 10 Inox H – stainless steel panel with LED lighting, hygrostat.

If you only need to perform the main task - filtration and purification of oxygen, you can look at an inexpensive device from the rating with a basic set of options. For connoisseurs of innovation, smart devices that can operate without owner intervention are suitable. It is important to familiarize yourself with the characteristics, pros and cons, and reviews of previous customers in advance.

Reasons for installation

Over time, natural ventilation can no longer cope with the tasks assigned to it, because no one cleans the shafts of old houses, they become clogged, and their efficiency leaves much to be desired. If many users install an exhaust system for the kitchen so that odors do not spread throughout the apartment while cooking, then why not install a bathroom fan with a check valve? After all, in the bathroom and toilet we often observe such negative nuances:

unpleasant odors leak from the ventilation system shaft;
there is no normal draft - as a result, the air stagnates;
there is no flow of fresh air due to a clogged ventilation shaft of the building;
Mold begins to appear in the corners - this is a clear reason for increased humidity due to poor ventilation.

If, after taking water treatments, condensation remains on the tiles in the bathroom, and the humid air remains for a long time, this is a signal that the ventilation urgently needs to be improved . To do this, you can install an ordinary exhaust fan, which will forcefully remove moist air from the room, but it will not solve the problems with the unpleasant smell from the mine - only fans with a check valve will help here.

Remember! Mold and mildew form quite quickly, but removing them is a very big problem, requiring investment of money and your efforts.

Treating all problem areas with chemical components is only half the battle; until you install a household fan for high-quality exhaust of stagnant air, you will not solve these problems. In addition, it is necessary to ensure a normal flow of fresh air for the toilet and bathroom, otherwise all efforts will be in vain. Therefore, you should not make the doors completely airtight - air must somehow flow into these rooms for better ventilation.

Why is forced ventilation needed?

High humidity distinguishes the bathroom from other rooms in the house and at the same time creates favorable conditions for the functioning and reproduction of pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms. Therefore, despite the abundance of cleaning products, only a well-chosen exhaust device can eliminate the main cause of rot and mold. It will also help to achieve optimal temperature and humidity in the room and get rid of the constant presence of unpleasant odors, which is especially typical for a combined bathroom with toilet. The bathroom hood performs the following tasks:

creating air exchange;
preventing the spread of microorganisms harmful to health;
maintaining an optimal microclimate.

Natural exhaust

This type of ventilation works by removing stale air through a shaft. Typically, this system is designed during the construction of an apartment building. But for its effective functioning, a constant flow of air is required through special openings in the bathroom door.

Forced exhaust

Installed in cases where the natural air exchange mechanism is faulty or insufficiently effective. It is created through the use of special devices - built-in fans.

Forced exhaust is recommended for installation in the following cases:

when rust occurs on pipes or metal products;
if there is constant condensation on glass, objects and windows;
when black spots, rot or mold appear on surfaces.

Ventilation can not only significantly reduce humidity levels, but also have a beneficial effect on the service life of household appliances and the condition of ceilings and walls after repairs.

Installation of ventilation in the bathroom ceiling

The process of installing a ceiling fan takes a minimal amount of time if you have the right preparation and knowledge. Before installation, you need to carefully consider how to connect the fan and, if necessary, lay the power cable. All wiring must be hidden in a corrugated pipe and located under the cladding. To connect the device, three-core cables of the VVG type are usually used - they allow you to supply zero, ground and phase from the switch to the device. Only after laying the cable can you begin to install the fan. Let's consider the order of work.

Air duct assembly

The first step before installing a suspended or suspended ceiling is to assemble an additional ventilation duct, which is inserted at one end into the ventilation shaft, and the other is brought to the level with the future ceiling and connected to the fan. If a rigid PVC air duct is used, it is attached to the ceiling using special plastic holders. It is not necessary to secure the soft corrugated pipe; it is enough to simply stretch it from the ventilation shaft to the installation site of the fan.

Types of valves

There are several types of check valve:

The membrane-type device has a damper made of lightweight flexible material, which begins to deflect under the pressure of incoming air. At the same time, with back air pressure, the membrane is pressed tightly against the grille, preventing air from penetrating into the room.
The butterfly check valve has an axial rod on which metal flaps are placed. When contaminated air is drawn in, the wings open; in the absence of air flow and under the influence of back pressure, they close.
The petal valve works on the same principle as previous designs. The difference is the presence of several separate rods for each petal.

All models of check valve for fans can be divided into several types depending on certain characteristics:

According to the material of manufacture. The return valve can be plastic, silicone or steel. Household appliances most often have valves made of plastic and silicone.

These materials are more resistant to the negative effects of moisture, do not require special care and do not have a big impact on the cost of the entire structure. In addition, plastic elements do not create strong noise and vibration, unlike metal parts.

By type of section. All models are divided into rectangular and round. The first type works on the principle of blinds, where the movement of horizontal blades depends on the operation of the fan.

The round valve can be half or solid and is made of plastic and film. A fairly important point is the need to match the shape of the valve to the contours of the hole in the ventilation pipe.

According to the control method. The devices can be operated manually or automatically. The first option is more reliable and does not require electricity or special care.

But if any element of the system malfunctions, negative consequences can be observed. Automatic control ensures optimal functioning of the entire structure without outside intervention.

By throughput. It depends entirely on the size of the device: the larger the valve, the more air can pass through the fan.

Main characteristics

Each device is characterized by the presence of certain technical parameters and equipment features. According to the first, operating conditions are determined, according to the second, the reliability and durability of the equipment can be determined.

Specifications include the following:

Connection diameter. This parameter determines the minimum dimensions of the ventilation duct opening for installing the device.
Fan type. means a centrifugal or axial device.
By power you can determine the amount of electricity consumed in one hour.
Performance. An indicator that determines how much polluted air is taken in per hour.
Voltage. This characteristic must be known in order to determine the required voltage in the power supply network to connect the device.
Noisy. This indicator is used to determine the noise level from the operation of the device. Depends on the type of equipment used, quality characteristics, type of blades and reliability of fastening of body elements.
Device security. Any device must be reliably protected from mechanical damage and moisture penetration into the housing.

Equipment features include the type of installed electric motor and material of manufacture. Models from reliable, trusted manufacturers can operate for 30 years.