Indoor air stays fresh and clean with an interior ventilation system. Installing an exhaust fan in a workshop, kitchen, or bathroom is an easy way to accomplish this. This simple project takes just a few hours and costs no more than $50. After adding an exhaust fan to one of these rooms, you will find it even easier to install one in the others.
You will need:
• Screwdriver
• Screws
• ¼-inch drill bit
• Exhaust fan
• Drill
• Tape measure
• Ductwork
• Hole saw
• Drywall knife
• Drywall compound
• Drywall sandpaper
• Pencil
• Paint
• Paintbrush
Step 1: Determine the installation location in the desired area. The duct run should be short and straight because each elbow in ductwork reduces the flow of exhaust. The area should be free of obstructions and adequately sized to support the fan and ductwork. Purchase a fan designed for the room conditions. Hire a licensed electrician to run the electrical wiring and install a wall switch for the fan.
Step 2: Insert the fan housing between two ceiling joists. Use the screws to temporarily secure the housing. Measure the length of your duct run to the point where it leaves the home. Mark the exit spot with a pencil.
Step 3: Remove the housing from the exhaust fan. Drill the exit hole for the ductwork by creating a pilot hole with the ¼-inch drill bit. Drill this hole through your wall to the exit spot marked in Step 2. Re-drill this hole with the hole saw.
Step 4: Reinstall the housing on the exhaust fan, securing it permanently into place. Connect the ductwork to the housing exit port. Run this ductwork to the exit hole and then through it. Allow at least two inches of duct to extend past the siding of the home.
Step 5: Install the fan motor in the housing, securing it with the included hardware. Make the electrical connections according to the product directions.
Step 6: Attach the exterior termination cap to the duct outside the house. Secure this cap with the provided hardware.
Step 7: Turn the wall switch to the on position to verify that the fan is operating properly. Use the drywall knife, compound, and sandpaper to finish the wall around the fan. Paint the wall the proper color and allow the paint to dry.
Step 8: Insert the grill cover onto the fan.
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