Stepping out of a warm shower into a cold bathroom is an unpleasant experience no one enjoys. Similarly, dealing with lingering steam and humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth, damaging your space. The solution is a bathroom exhaust fan with a built-in heater, a versatile appliance that tackles both comfort and air quality in one sleek unit.
These combination fans do more than just clear the air; they provide targeted warmth, making your bathroom a cozy retreat during colder months. From basic models to feature-packed units with advanced lighting and smart controls, there is an option for every need and budget. This roundup will help you find the perfect fan to create a more comfortable and healthier bathroom environment.
Our Top Picks for Bathroom Exhaust Fans with Heaters
- Broan-NuTone Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Heater Quiet 1.5 Sones
- Delta Breez Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light, Heater & Thermostat
- sykart 4 in 1 Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light and Heater
- Panasonic WhisperWarm Ceiling Mount Bathroom Exhaust Fan
- GROWNEER Bathroom Fan with Bluetooth Speaker, 110/160 CFM
- Broan-NuTone 655 Bathroom Exhaust Fan and Heater Combo
- Delta Breez RAD80L Radiant Heater and Exhaust Fan
- Broan-NuTone 9093WH Exhaust Fan with Heater and Light
Broan-NuTone Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Heater Quiet 1.5 Sones
This Broan-NuTone model is a comprehensive solution that combines an 80 CFM exhaust fan, a heater, and a dimmable LED light into one unit. Its primary benefit is providing superior comfort by allowing you to use each function independently or together, ensuring your bathroom stays warm and free of excess moisture. The quiet 1.5 sones operation means it works effectively without being disruptive.
The integrated lighting is a standout feature, offering three color temperature options—Warm White, Bright White, and Daylight—to match your mood or task. This flexibility, combined with its modern white grille design, allows it to complement virtually any bathroom decor while serving as a reliable fixture for years to come.
Delta Breez Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light, Heater & Thermostat
The Delta Breez Radiance model focuses on efficiency and safety. Its brushless DC motor is built for longevity, capable of running for up to 70,000 hours while using energy effectively. The fan operates at a quiet 1.5 sones, providing consistent and peaceful ventilation for your bathroom, laundry room, or other household spaces.
A key feature is the built-in 1300-watt heating element, which provides instant warmth. For added safety and control, it includes a thermal cutoff fuse and a thermostat to maintain a safe operating temperature. This makes it a dependable choice for those seeking a durable and secure heating and ventilation solution.
sykart 4 in 1 Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light and Heater
For those needing powerful performance, the sykart 4-in-1 unit is a compelling option. It boasts a high 190 CFM airflow and a robust 1800W heating element, making it capable of quickly clearing large bathrooms of steam and providing substantial warmth. Despite its power, it operates at a low 1.0 sone, ensuring quiet operation.
This model consolidates an exhaust fan, heater, LED light, and ventilation fan into a single device. It includes a convenient wall remote control for easy mode switching, allowing you to optimize the bathroom environment for any season. The combination of high power and multi-functionality makes it suitable for homes, hotels, and larger restrooms.
Panasonic WhisperWarm Ceiling Mount Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Panasonic is renowned for quiet, high-quality fans, and the WhisperWarm is no exception. This Energy Star-certified model features a powerful 1600W PTC heater and a versatile DC motor. Its Pick-A-Flow technology lets you select the perfect airflow setting—50, 80, or 110 CFM—to match your room size and specific needs.
Installation is simplified with the Flex-Z Fast bracket, which allows for easy positioning without a trip to the attic. This fan delivers healthy air and instant warmth with the reliability and quiet performance that Panasonic is known for, making it a top-tier choice for discerning homeowners.
GROWNEER Bathroom Fan with Bluetooth Speaker
The GROWNEER model is for those who want a feature-rich, modern bathroom experience. Beyond its effective 110/160 CFM ventilation and heater, it includes a Bluetooth speaker and dynamic lighting. You can stream music directly from your device and choose from 9 RGB lighting modes to set the perfect ambiance.
It also offers a practical Smart Shower Mode, which provides 60 minutes of heating followed by 15 minutes of automatic ventilation to dry out the room. With a 1.0 sone noise level, three adjustable color temperatures for the main light, and a separate nightlight, this unit combines entertainment, comfort, and functionality.
Broan-NuTone 655 Bathroom Exhaust Fan and Heater Combo
A classic and reliable choice, the Broan-NuTone 655 is designed for straightforward performance. It effectively removes moisture and odors from your bathroom while its built-in heater provides comforting warmth. This model is known for its durability and is a trusted solution for basic bathroom climate control.
Its simple design ensures it integrates well with most bathroom styles without drawing unnecessary attention. If you are looking for a no-frills, effective exhaust fan and heater from a reputable brand, the Broan-NuTone 655 is a solid contender that focuses on core functionality.
Delta Breez RAD80L Radiant Heater and Exhaust Fan
The Delta Breez RAD80L offers a focused approach to bathroom comfort with its radiant heater and efficient 80 CFM exhaust. The radiant heating technology provides direct, comforting warmth, making it ideal for taking the chill out of the air on cold mornings.
Like other Delta Breez models, it is built with energy efficiency and quiet operation in mind. This unit is an excellent option for those who prioritize effective heating and reliable ventilation in a compact and efficient design, ensuring a more comfortable bathroom environment.
Broan-NuTone 9093WH Exhaust Fan with Heater and Light
The Broan-NuTone 9093WH is a versatile all-in-one unit that provides essential bathroom functions. It combines a capable exhaust fan with a built-in heater and an integrated light, addressing ventilation, comfort, and illumination in a single fixture.
This model is designed for user convenience, allowing you to manage the climate and lighting of your bathroom effortlessly. Its straightforward design and reliable performance from a leading brand make it a practical choice for many households seeking an integrated solution.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Heater
When I started looking for a bathroom exhaust fan with a heater, I quickly realized it wasn’t as simple as just picking the first one I saw. You’re combining two major functions—ventilation and heating—into one unit, so getting the right fit is crucial for both comfort and performance. Let me walk you through the key things I consider before making a purchase.
First up is airflow capacity, measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). This tells you how powerful the fan is at moving air. A general rule I use is to look for at least 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom area. So, for a 100-square-foot bathroom, you’d want a 100 CFM fan. If your bathroom has a high ceiling, a jetted tub, or a steam shower, you’ll want to go even higher. Pair this with a heater that has enough wattage to actually warm your space. I typically look for at least 1,500 watts for smaller bathrooms and 2,000 watts or more for larger ones to ensure it actually takes the chill off.
Noise level is a huge factor for me, measured in sones. The lower the sone rating, the quieter the fan. A rating of 1.0 sones or less is very quiet, almost like a whisper. If you plan on running the heater on a timer in the morning, a quiet fan won’t disturb others in the house. Speaking of operation, think about the controls. Do you want a simple wall switch, a built-in humidistat that turns on automatically when it senses moisture, or a timer that you can set and forget? I prefer a separate switch for the fan and the heater so I can use the ventilation without the heat on a warm day.
Installation is another big one. Are you replacing an old fan or starting from scratch? If it’s a replacement, you’ll need to check the size of the existing ceiling opening and the ductwork. New construction often offers more flexibility. Also, make sure the unit is rated for use over a bathtub or shower if that’s where you’re installing it; this requires a specific safety certification (UL Listing for Wet Locations). Finally, don’t forget about features like built-in lighting, which can save you from having to install a separate light fixture, and the design of the grille, which can make a big difference in how the unit looks on your ceiling.
FAQ
Can I install a bathroom exhaust fan with a heater myself?
If you have decent experience with home electrical work and feel comfortable working in your attic space, it’s possible. However, I always recommend considering a professional. You’re dealing with high-wattage heating elements, new wiring circuits, and potentially cutting into ceiling joists. A licensed electrician can ensure it’s done safely and up to code, which is super important for a device that combines water, electricity, and heat.
What size fan-heater combo do I need for my bathroom?
Sizing is everything. For the fan part, calculate your bathroom’s square footage and look for a CFM rating that matches or exceeds it. For the heater, the wattage determines its warming power. A small bathroom (under 50 sq. ft.) might be okay with 1,500 watts, but for a larger master bathroom, I’d look for 2,000 watts or more to feel a real difference. It’s better to have a slightly overpowered unit than one that struggles to do its job.
Are these units energy efficient?
They can be, but it depends on how you use them. The fan motor itself often uses very little electricity. The heater, on the other hand, is a power-hungry component because it uses resistive heating. The key to efficiency is to use the heater only when needed, ideally with a timer to prevent it from running for hours on end. Using the exhaust fan alone to clear out moisture quickly is a much more energy-efficient operation.
How do I maintain my bathroom fan with a heater?
Regular maintenance is simple but vital. I make a habit of vacuuming the grille and the interior housing every few months to remove dust buildup, which can be a fire hazard near the heating elements. For a deeper clean, the grille usually snaps off or is held by a few screws, allowing you to wash it with soapy water. Keeping it clean ensures optimal performance for your 8 best bathroom exhaust fans with heaters for comfort and ventilation and extends the life of the unit.
Can I use this fan as my primary heat source?
I wouldn’t recommend it. While these units are fantastic for taking the edge off a cold bathroom before or after a shower, they are not designed to be a whole-room primary heat source like a furnace or a dedicated wall heater. They are best for spot heating and providing quick, localized warmth. Relying on one to heat your entire bathroom in a cold climate would be very inefficient and expensive.