A steamy mirror after a shower and lingering humidity are common bathroom frustrations. The right exhaust fan with a light combats these issues, providing essential ventilation and illumination in one efficient unit. These combo units are crucial for preventing mold and mildew, protecting your home’s air quality and structure, all while brightening your space.
Choosing the perfect model, however, can be a challenge. You need to balance power, noise level, light output, and ease of installation. This roundup simplifies your search by reviewing eight of the best bathroom exhaust fan light combinations on the market, helping you find the ideal fit for your home’s needs and your budget.
Our Top Picks for Bathroom Exhaust Fan Lights
- Fitop Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light, 110 CFM
- Broan-NuTone 678 Ventilation Fan and Light Combo
- Fitop 130 CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light
- OFANKU 2-in-1 Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light
- Heromind Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light, 110 CFM
- Broan-NuTone 744LED Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light
- Delta Breez Radiance Series RAD80L LED Exhaust Fan
- Panasonic FV-08VKS3 WhisperWarm Fan/Heater/Light
Fitop Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light, 110 CFM
This Fitop model is a strong contender for those seeking a quiet and versatile ventilation solution. Operating at a mere 1.0 sone, it removes moisture from rooms up to 110 square feet without being disruptive. The integrated 1200-lumen LED light provides ample illumination, making it a practical two-in-one unit for most standard bathrooms.
A key feature is its customizable lighting, which allows you to switch between 3000K, 4000K, and 5000K color temperatures with a simple flick of the wall switch. The unit automatically remembers your last setting. Its design prioritizes easy installation, requiring no cutting and fitting into a compact ceiling opening of 7.75 by 7.5 inches.
Broan-NuTone 678 Ventilation Fan and Light Combo
As a trusted name in home ventilation, the Broan-NuTone 678 offers a reliable and straightforward solution. This fan and light combo is designed to handle smaller bathrooms up to 45 square feet, effectively reducing humidity and odors. Its classic design includes a shatter-resistant light diffusing lens for a soft, even glow.
This unit is built for longevity, featuring a plug-in, permanently lubricated motor that simplifies any future maintenance. The installation process is DIY-friendly, making it a good option for replacing an old, inefficient fan. It includes polymeric duct connectors for a secure and positive connection to your ductwork.
Fitop 130 CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light
For bathrooms that require a bit more power, this Fitop model delivers 130 CFM of airflow, making it suitable for spaces up to 130 square feet. It maintains a quiet profile at 1.5 sones, efficiently clearing steam and humidity without creating a loud disturbance. The 1100-lumen LED light ensures your bathroom is well-lit.
Like its smaller sibling, this fan offers the same convenient three-color temperature lighting (3000K, 4000K, 5000K) that can be cycled through with your light switch. It is designed for a no-cut installation into a 9.25-inch by 9.25-inch ceiling opening, and its larger grille measures 14.28 inches for a more substantial look.
OFANKU 2-in-1 Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light
The OFANKU exhaust fan stands out with its efficient 2-in-1 design, combining a powerful 130 CFM motor with a bright 1200-lumen LED panel. It is rated for larger rooms up to 160 square feet, making it a capable choice for master bathrooms. Despite its power, it operates at a quiet 1.5 sones.
This unit is engineered for effective air circulation, helping to prevent fogged mirrors and excess moisture buildup. The installation process is simplified with quick-connect brackets, and it fits a standard 9.25-inch by 9.25-inch ceiling opening. The stylish design is suitable for various home styles.
Heromind Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light, 110 CFM
Heromind offers a model that emphasizes both efficiency and quiet operation. With a 110 CFM airflow and a low 1.0 sone noise rating, it is 50% quieter than many standard fans, making it ideal for bathrooms near bedrooms or for light sleepers. It is designed to clear a fogged mirror in just 3-5 minutes.
The 20W LED panel provides three adjustable color temperatures, and the manufacturer suggests specific uses for each: 4000K for makeup, 3000K for bathing, and 5000K for cleaning. This thoughtful approach to lighting allows you to customize the ambiance for different tasks.
Broan-NuTone 744LED Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light
The Broan-NuTone 744LED is an energy-efficient option that features a bright, integrated LED light designed for long-term use. This model provides effective ventilation while the built-in light eliminates the need for separate bulb purchases and replacements. It is designed to offer a clean, modern look that fits well in most bathroom decors.
As part of the Broan-NuTone lineup, this fan is built with quality components for reliable performance. It is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a reputable brand that combines effective moisture control with modern LED lighting technology in a single, cohesive unit.
Delta Breez Radiance Series RAD80L LED Exhaust Fan
The Delta Breez Radiance RAD80L is engineered for those who prioritize quiet operation and energy savings. This model is known for its low sone rating, providing powerful ventilation with minimal noise. The integrated LED light is both bright and efficient, contributing to lower electricity usage over time.
It features a sleek, low-profile design that sits flush with the ceiling for a discreet appearance. The RAD80L is an excellent option for en-suite bathrooms or any space where a quiet, efficient, and unobtrusive fan-light combo is desired.
Panasonic FV-08VKS3 WhisperWarm Fan/Heater/Light
For the ultimate in bathroom comfort, the Panasonic WhisperWarm is a premium three-in-one unit. It goes beyond simple ventilation and lighting by incorporating a quiet, efficient heater. This feature is perfect for taking the chill out of your bathroom on cold mornings, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Panasonic is renowned for its exceptionally quiet fan motors, and this model lives up to that reputation. The combination of a powerful exhaust fan, a bright light, and a built-in heater makes this a comprehensive solution for upgrading your bathroom’s comfort and functionality.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan Light
I know shopping for a new bathroom exhaust fan light can feel overwhelming. There are so many numbers, features, and brands to consider. Having installed a few myself and helped friends pick theirs out, I can tell you that focusing on a few key factors makes the decision much easier. Let’s break down what you really need to look for.
First, and this is the big one, you need to get the right fan power, measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). A fan that’s too weak won’t clear the steam from your shower, and one that’s too powerful is just a waste of energy. A good rule of thumb I use is to take your bathroom’s square footage and multiply it by 1.1. For example, a 60-square-foot bathroom needs at least a 66 CFM fan. For larger bathrooms or those with high ceilings, you might need to go higher. If you have a jetted tub, look for a fan rated specifically for that, as they need more power to handle the extra moisture.
Next, pay attention to the noise level, measured in sones. This is a huge quality-of-life factor. A lower sone rating means a quieter fan. Standard builders-grade models can be quite loud, around 4.0 sones or more, which is like a normal conversation. I always recommend aiming for 1.5 sones or less for a much more peaceful bathroom experience. You can find ultra-quiet models that run at 0.3 sones, which is barely a whisper.
Then, consider the lighting. What kind of light bulb does it use? Older models often use incandescent or CFL bulbs, but the best modern bathroom exhaust fan light units use integrated or standard LED panels. LEDs are fantastic because they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and provide bright, even light. Think about the color temperature as well—do you want a warm, soft white (around 2700K) or a brighter, daylight white (5000K+)? I prefer a neutral white around 4000K for a bathroom because it feels clean and alert.
Finally, don’t forget about the little extras. Features like a built-in night light are great for those middle-of-the-night trips without blinding yourself. Humidity sensors are a game-changer; the fan turns on automatically when it detects moisture and turns off when the air is dry. Motion sensing is another handy option. Also, make sure the unit’s housing will fit in your ceiling joists and that the duct size matches your existing setup. Taking a few minutes to think about these points will lead you to the perfect model for your needs.
FAQ
What size bathroom exhaust fan do I need?
This is probably the most common question I get. The size is determined by your bathroom’s volume and the fan’s CFM rating. As I mentioned in the guide, a simple calculation is to multiply your bathroom’s square footage by 1.1. So, for a standard 8×10 foot (80 sq ft) bathroom, you’d want a fan rated for at least 88 CFM. If your bathroom has a high ceiling (over 8 feet), you’ll need to account for that extra volume. It’s often better to go slightly over than under to ensure proper ventilation.
Can I install a bathroom exhaust fan light myself?
Maybe. If you’re replacing an old unit with a new one that fits the existing wiring and ductwork, and you’re comfortable with basic electrical work, it’s a manageable DIY project. However, if you’re installing a fan in a new location, it involves cutting a hole in your ceiling, running new electrical wire, and potentially dealing with ductwork through your attic. This can be complex and messy. For anything beyond a simple like-for-like swap, I usually recommend hiring a professional electrician to ensure it’s done safely and correctly.
Why is my new bathroom exhaust fan light so loud?
A loud fan is usually caused by one of a few things. First, check if the installation is secure. If the fan housing is vibrating against the ceiling joists, it will create a lot of noise—some insulation or securing the unit better can fix this. Second, check the ductwork. Sharp bends or a damper that’s stuck closed can cause whistling and rattling. Finally, the fan itself might just be a noisy model. If you bought a cheap, high-CFM fan, it’s often traded for a higher noise level. Upgrading to a low-sone model is the best fix for a consistently noisy unit.
How often should I clean my bathroom exhaust fan?
You should give your bathroom exhaust fan a basic cleaning at least once a year. Over time, dust and lint build up on the fan blades and the grill, which reduces its efficiency and can even become a fire hazard. To clean it, turn off the power at the circuit breaker, remove the cover, and vacuum out the interior housing and the blades. Wipe down the grill with a damp cloth. This simple maintenance keeps it running quietly and effectively, pulling moisture out of your bathroom as intended.
Are combination bathroom exhaust fan light units better than separate ones?
There are pros and cons to both. A combination unit is fantastic for saving space, especially in smaller bathrooms where you might not have room for a separate light fixture and fan. It also simplifies installation because you’re dealing with one electrical box. However, a separate fan and light give you more flexibility. You can choose the exact style of light fixture you want and potentially get a more powerful, dedicated fan. For most people, a good quality combination unit is a convenient and effective all-in-one solution for their bathroom ventilation and lighting needs.