Have you ever stepped out of a hot shower only to find your bathroom mirror completely fogged up and the walls dripping with moisture? That lingering humidity isn’t just annoying; it is a silent threat to your home that can lead to stubborn mold and peeling paint. A high-quality exhaust fan is the ultimate shield against these bathroom woes, and Broan is the gold standard for getting the job done right.
However, walking into a hardware store or browsing online for a Broan fan can feel overwhelming. With so many different models, noise levels, and power ratings to choose from, it is easy to feel stuck. Should you prioritize a whisper-quiet motor, or do you need extra power for a large master bathroom? Picking the wrong unit can leave you with a loud, ineffective fan that fails to clear the air.
In this guide, we will clear the air—literally. We will break down the features that matter most and help you match the perfect Broan fan to your specific bathroom needs. You will learn how to read the specs, understand the importance of airflow, and select a model that fits your budget and your space perfectly. By the time you finish reading, you will have the confidence to stop the steam for good. Let’s dive into the details so you can finally enjoy a fresh, dry bathroom every single day.
Top Broan Bathroom Exhaust Fan Recommendations
- 50 CFM BATHROOM EXHAUST FAN: 50 CFM is sufficient ventilation to remove, moisture, odor and pollutants from your smaller powder room or bathroom up to 45 sq. ft.
- EFFICIENT BATHROOM EXHAUST FAN: Energy Star Certified, operates at 2.0 Sones for peaceful and effective ventilation.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Compact housing with foldable mounting brackets for NO CUT and versatile installation with no attic access needed. Housing Dimensions 7-1/4 " x 7-1/2" x 3-5/8". Cover dimensions. 8-5/8"x8-3/8". 3 " diameter duct.
- UPDATED MODERN GRILLE: Brighter white grilles blend in to match most common ceiling paint. Broan 688. This fan features foldable mounting ears and easy to remove grill cover with springs.
- BROAN NUTONE: This new innovative product from Broan NuTone, the leaders in indoor air quality, is proudly MADE IN THE USA at our Hartford, WI headquarters
- HIGH-QUALITY FAN: Quiet, ENERGY STAR certified exhaust fan operates with 110 CFM and 1.0 Sones to help control air quality is powerful enough for rooms (including bathroom) up to 105 sq. ft.; Duct Diameter 4"
- EFFICIENT: Powerful ventilation reduces to quickly eliminate fogged mirrors at 110 CFM, so your vision will always be clear and your surroundings will always be comfortable
- EASY INSTALLATION: Easy to install new/replace existing product with retrofit installations that can be done entirely from the room-side – no attic access required. Our instillation guide is located above the reviews on this page.
- RELIABLE PERFORMANCE: With our TrueSeal Damper Technology, InVent fans reduce air leakage by up to 50% compared to competitive models, resulting in better home performance via blower door tests and reducing cold and warm air backdrafts
- GREAT FOR BATHROOM: UL Listed for use over tubs and showers with a GFCI circuit so you can capture the steam before it spreads throughout the room by placing your fan exactly where you need it the most
- ENERGY STAR CERTIFIED EXHAUST FAN WITH LIGHT (LED): 80 CFM bathroom exhaust fan reduces energy consumption by about 50% compared to standard bath fans. Durable LED Light: Long-lasting, integrated LED light is rated for 50,000 hours of life at a 3500K color temperature. This versatile bath fan helps reduce moisture and odors in your bathroom while providing enough light for your space.
- QUIET PERFORMANCE: This bath fan is as quiet as a whisper (1.5 sones) with efficient ventilation for rooms up to 75 sq. ft. This is just enough to know the fan is on, but quite enough to maintain a peaceful setting. Your fan will remove excess moisture from the room to reduce foggy mirrors with efficiency.
- FASTEST INSTALLATION: No cut roomside installation makes it possible to retrofit to spaces with no attic access, without having to cut drywall - saving time and reducing complexity. Housing DImensions: 7.5"D x 7.25"W x 5.75"H. Cover Dimensions 9.5" x 9.5".
- SEAMLESS DESIGN: Simple design with the modern CleanCover grille provides a floating appearance that blends into the ceiling. Our patent pending Slideclip allows for springless attachment that allows for fast installation of the grille/cover and easy cleaning.
- BROAN NUTONE: From the industry leader in residential indoor air quality Broan Nutone has exceptional performance, US based service to support you from start to finish and is located in Hartford, Wisconsin. This bath fan include a 3 year manufacturer warranty.
- HIGH-QUALITY BATH FAN, LIGHT, AND HEATER COMBO: Exhaust Fan, light, and heater function independently or together to provide superior comfort in your bathroom at 80 CFM and 1.5 sones. The 80 CFM bathroom exhaust fan will remove excess moisture and humidity while keeping the room warm and comfortable while in use.
- DECORATIVE DESIGN: White grille and modern design complement virtually any decor. This durable modern look will be a reliable bath fan for years to come. Keep your bathroom smelling and looking fresh with reduced moisture and clear mirrors.
- DIMMABLE LED LIGHTING: Integrated, dimmable LED light with CCT color control can be used as a convenient nightlight and allows you to choose between 3 color options. Warm white (2700K), Bright White (3500k) or Daylight (5000k) gives you a variety of practical options. You will be able to adjust the color tempurature to match the lighting.
- POWERFUL HEATER: Equipped with a powerful 1300-watt heater provides efficient heating throughout any room. This bathroom exhaust fan will quickly heat your space when you desire. Feel the hear, the instant you flip the switch. The heat will be delivered consistently and you will be able to enjoy your shower in a warm and peaceful environment!
- COMPACT SIZE: Fits 2" x 6" ceiling construction and features rugged galvanized steel housing. Please confirm the dimensions before install. Easy to install with straightforward directions.
- Product Specifications: 120V(with power plug), 50CFM, 0.6A, 3000Rpm , 60Hz. Precision-balanced 5/8 coil pack and aerodynamic blade keep noise below 1.5 sones, so quiet you'll forget it's running
- Product Size: bathroom fan motor shaft = 3/16" x 1 3/4", wire length = 6" with 2 plugs. Mounting stud 1 7/8" in center, 5/8 coil pack. Fan blades: 4 5/8" x 1 1/8"
- Wide Compatibility: Bathroom vent fan motor is compatible with replacement motors Nu-tone Br-oan, Up-pco, B-ay motors, Sears 569, Da-yton and more. Note: The above brands and any associated models are for compatibility demonstration purposes only
- Stable and Quiet Operation: This fan motor kit is designed for bathroom use and capable of continuous, reliable running. It provides the necessary airflow for your exhaust fan to effectively vent out steam and moist air
- Built for Bathroom Environments: Crafted with high-quality, moisture-resistant materials, this motor ensures stable performance and long-lasting durability. It is built to withstand the humidity of a bathroom, delivering consistent exhaust power to maintain proper ventilation
- 696N-R02 Perfect upgrade 696N-R02 B unit fan motor replacement for Nutone 696N-R02 B unit,Part Number S97012026 fan for Broan-Nutone replaces motor#97008322 97012026 S97008322.
- Compatible with Nutone 696N-R02 B (696N-R01 B) fan: The S97012026 fan for 696n-r02 b unit, and fit for bathroom exhaust fan 688-k for Broan 688 replacement motor, 663-G, 663-H, 663-J, 688-G, 688-H, 688-J, 688-K, 696N-R02 B unit 50CFM fan.
- Save Money&Time: The S97012026 bathroom fan motor assembly for Broan-Nutone S97012026 fan is without cutting/patching the ceiling or replacing the whole housing and vent--cheaper and easier than repair the whole S97012026 fan assembly for Broan Nutone.
- Fix noise issue for Broan 688-k replacement fan: The fan motor replacement for Broan 688 medel runs smoothly and quietly, and can be held more securely on the motor shaft to prevent it from sliding on the shaft, making 50 cfm bathroom fan S97012026 for Nutone 696N-R02 B unit less likely to make noise.
- Moves more air: Upgrade model 696N-R02 B Unit 50CFM Fan for Broan 688 exhaust fan with powerful air movement and doesn't let water vapor stay on walls/mirrors/etc in the bathroom when showering. Providing a clean and comfortable bathroom experience.
- ENERGY STAR CERTIFIED EXHAUST FAN: 80 CFM bathroom exhaust fan reduces energy consumption by about 50% compared to standard bath fans. This versatile bath fan helps reduce moisture and odors in your bathroom. This fan will remove moisture effectively while saving energy costs.
- QUIET PERFORMANCE: This bath fan is as quiet as a whisper (1.5 sones) with efficient ventilation for rooms up to 75 sq. ft. This is just enough to know the fan is on, but quite enough to maintain a peaceful setting. Your fan will remove excess moisture from the room to reduce foggy mirrors with efficiency.
- FASTEST INSTALLATION: No cut roomside installation makes it possible to retrofit to spaces with no attic access, without having to cut drywall - saving time and reducing complexity.
- SLIDECLIP: Patent pending technology for a springless attachment that allows for fast installation of the grille/cover and easy cleaning.
- SEAMLESS DESIGN: Simple design with the modern CleanCover grille provides a floating appearance that blends into the ceiling.
- HIGH-QUALITY FAN: Quiet certified exhaust fan operates at 110 CFM and 3. 0 Sones to help control air quality is powerful enough for rooms (including bathroom) up to 105 sq. ft.
- EFFICIENT: Powerful ventilation reduces to quickly eliminate fogged mirrors at 110 CFM, so your vision will always be clear and your surroundings will always be comfortable
- EASY INSTALLATION: Easy to install new/replace existing product with EZ Duct connectors that can be installed entirely from the room-side – no attic access required
- RELIABLE PERFORMANCE: With our True Seal Damper Technology, Invent fans reduce air leakage by up to 50% compared to competitive models, resulting in better home performance via blower door tests and reducing cold and warm air backdrafts
- GREAT FOR BATHROOM: UL Listed for use over tubs and showers with a GFCI circuit so you can capture the steam before it spreads throughout the room by placing your fan exactly where you need it the most
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Broan Bathroom Exhaust Fan
A bathroom exhaust fan keeps your home fresh and dry. Broan is a leader in this field. They offer many models to fit any bathroom size. This guide will help you pick the right one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a Broan fan, look at the Sones and CFM ratings. Sones measure how loud the fan is. A lower number means a quieter fan. CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the fan moves. You want a higher CFM for a larger bathroom. Some fans also include LED lights or heaters. These extras add comfort to your daily routine.
2. Important Materials
Broan uses high-quality parts to ensure durability. Most housings are made of heavy-duty galvanized steel. This material resists rust and corrosion in damp bathrooms. The grilles are usually made of durable, white polymer. This plastic is easy to clean and stays white over time. High-quality motors are also a standard part of their design. These motors are built to run for many years without failing.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Proper installation improves the quality of your fan. If you seal the ductwork correctly, the fan works more efficiently. Using the wrong size duct can reduce airflow and increase noise. Quality also depends on regular maintenance. Dust buildup in the grille can block airflow. Cleaning the grille every few months keeps the fan running smoothly. Poor ventilation in the attic can also make a good fan struggle.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Broan fans are perfect for many situations. If you have a small guest bathroom, a compact, quiet model works best. For large master bathrooms, you might choose a model with a heater. Many users love the “Roomside” installation feature. This allows you to install the fan through the ceiling hole. You do not need to crawl into the attic. This makes the project much easier for homeowners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose the right CFM for my bathroom?
A: A simple rule is to have one CFM for every square foot of your bathroom. For example, a 50-square-foot bathroom needs at least a 50 CFM fan.
Q: Are Broan fans hard to install?
A: Many Broan models use the Roomside installation system. This makes the process much simpler and faster for beginners.
Q: What does a “Sone” rating mean?
A: Sones measure sound. One Sone is about as loud as a quiet refrigerator. Look for fans with 1.0 Sone or less for a quiet experience.
Q: Can I install a fan with a light if I don’t have existing wiring?
A: You will need to run new electrical wires to the ceiling. It is best to hire a professional electrician for this task.
Q: How often should I clean my exhaust fan?
A: You should clean the grille and vacuum the inside of the fan every six months. This prevents dust from clogging the motor.
Q: Do I need a heater in my fan?
A: A heater is great for cold climates. It keeps the room warm while you step out of a hot shower.
Q: Is the grille paintable?
A: Yes, most Broan white plastic grilles can be painted to match your ceiling color.
Q: What is the benefit of a humidity-sensing fan?
A: These fans turn on automatically when the air gets damp. They turn off when the room is dry, which saves energy.
Q: Can I use a regular light switch for a fan with a light?
A: You can, but you will need two switches if you want to control the fan and the light separately.
Q: How long do Broan fans typically last?
A: With proper cleaning and correct installation, a Broan fan can last for over 10 years.