In rooms with high humidity, there is a high risk of condensation of steam on the ceilings and walls, as a result of which mold and fungus form, which extremely negatively affects human health. A properly equipped forced draft in the bathroom will avoid these problems. A high-quality design should ensure the supply of at least 25 cubic meters of fresh air per hour for a separate room and from 50 cubic meters for a combined bathroom.
Description
Modern forced hoods in the bathroom are divided into two varieties: simple and automatic. Between themselves, they differ structurally, the presence of additional functionality, price. Simple equipment consists of an electric fan (built-in or remote separately) and a plastic case.
The most popular activation method is with a switch that is responsible for lighting in the bathroom. This approach allows for air circulation at a time when the user is in the room. The automatic version is equipped with electronics, which effectively controls the operation of the unit.
Features
Forced hoods in the bathroom are equipped with such additional options:
- on / off timer;
- humidity indicators;
- multi-colored backlight.
The fan is activated if the humidity level exceeds the permissible value, bringing it to normal, and then turns off. Automatic modifications with an adjustable diffuser are suitable for use in private homes, where the ventilation system aggregates with atmospheric air. Some models are equipped with a check valve that allows air to flow in one direction. This design is relevant for residents of high-rise apartment buildings, allows you to protect yourself from the smells of the neighbors bathroom.
Typically, exhaust air from the bathroom is removed using special devices mechanically. For this purpose, an overhead or duct type fan is used. After switching on, it creates a draft, which helps to remove polluted air. Private dwellings are equipped with canals that divert the waste stream through the attic.
Model Overview
There are two types of equipment for forced extraction into the bathroom: axial and centrifugal (radial) fans. The design of the first device includes a shaft with a classic impeller mounted on it. The blades of the last element are made at a certain angle. Rotating, the shaft draws in a stream of air. Such a mechanism is appropriate if the created pressure is sufficient to ensure normal air exchange.
For centrifugal analogs, the flow enters the central part, after which it is supplied to the casing with the blades, where it is discharged, pushing against the edges of the housing, and then discharged through a special pipe into the outlet channel. Of the considered devices, the most popular are overhead modifications, the operation of which is more efficient and quieter than that of axial counterparts. Centrifugal devices with additional functionality can operate in automatic mode.
Security
The fan for forced exhaust in the bathroom should be maximally adapted to work in conditions of high humidity. The housing of the power tool must be sealed securely. The internal "filling" is necessarily protected from steam from all sides.
The devices in question must comply with special standards developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IP). This parameter consists of a pair of numbers, the first of which has a value from 0 to 6, indicates the level of protection against possible ingress of impurities. The second figure indicates the degree of moisture resistance. In our case, the indicator should be at least four.
Performance Requirements
The power and performance of forced draft in the bathroom are closely interconnected. The larger the first parameter, the higher the second characteristic. It is not difficult to calculate the required indicator: it is necessary to multiply the footage of the room by the number of people living. If the unit is equipped with various options, its power parameter should not exceed the calculated value by more than 10%. The most popular are economical and noiseless options, the consumption of which is 7-20 watts.
A greater indicator of power creates a draft, preventing the room from warming up properly. The second main parameter is the noise generated by the operation of the blades. It is significantly lower than the functioning of the cooker hood. Sound does not exceed 30 dB as a normal parameter, since a higher level is uncomfortable for a person’s hearing.
Optional equipment
Forced hood for the bathroom and toilet as standard is controlled mechanically or operates in constant mode at slow speeds. The built-in timer makes it possible to partially automate the process. Thanks to this option, after a person leaves the room, the fan works for a while, and then turns off independently.
Humidity sensor is very relevant for installation in the bathroom. The hygrometer allows you to set the humidity limits from 40 to 100%. Depending on the last parameter, the fan will automatically turn on or off. If this device is available, it is not practical to set a timer.
Arrangement of the ventilation system in a country house begins with measuring the holes in the bathroom to determine the diameter of the duct. In the standard version, the hood dimensions are 10-13 centimeters. To increase the nests, use a hammer drill.
The check valve is a small and simple in design device that prevents the arrival of unpleasant odors from adjacent neighboring bathrooms. Its operation is relevant in urban baths connected to a common ventilation duct.
How to choose a forced hood in the bathroom?
Equipping the ventilation system, you should determine the type of exhaust device. To begin with, it is necessary to take into account the capabilities of the unit, expressed in the amount of air driven. In many ways, this parameter depends on the diameter of the device. Manufacturers offer pipes with a cross section from 80 to 150 mm as standard.
Appearance is an equally important factor when choosing. Some manufacturers make modifications with a removable outer panel, others combine with different colors and shades. Alternatively, an original and beautiful element of ventilation can be made one of the accents of the overall interior of the room.
When choosing a forced exhaust in the bathroom with batteries or with an electrical connection, it must be borne in mind that the fan operates in conditions of high humidity. Therefore, all parts must be reliably protected from liquids and vapors, and also comply with accepted standards. The next factor is noise. As long-term operation of the fan is assumed, this parameter must be selected with the lowest possible value.
Workflow selection
Before installing a forced exhaust hood in the bathroom, you need to determine the connection diagram. Ways:
- The switch is located on the device. Activation and deactivation is carried out by key or string.
- Connecting the unit to an individual switch. In front of the room, a controller is mounted, in which one key turns on the light, the second button - ventilation.
- Automatic activation of the propeller from a motion or humidity indicator. The device starts to work when the permissible humidity value is exceeded or there is movement in the room.
- Connect the system to the light switch. This design can be equipped with a timer, activated and turned off simultaneously with the lighting.
The latter option is not very economical, since the system will turn on every time a person comes in to wash his hands or brush his teeth.
How to connect a forced range hood in the bathroom?
Before carrying out this operation, you must carefully study the instructions that came with the device. The standard installation process includes several stages:
- The front cover is removed, an adhesive composition (liquid nails or silicone) is applied to all points of contact with the wall surface. The specified means guarantee reliable fastening of a lightweight plastic product.
- The unit is placed in the prepared hole so that the working part and the motor are completely inside the wall. For a few minutes, the structure is pressed tightly and held.
- They install a mosquito net to protect the room from mosquitoes and other insects.
- The front cover is fixed on self-tapping screws, which are supplied as standard.
Connection to electrical power should not be made with bare parts of wires. They are placed in the recesses of the ventilation ducts, protected by a corrugated casing. Some consumers connect the fan through a contact pair to a lighting switch that is mounted on a phase. To facilitate the operation of the device, in the future it is allowed to install a separate key for the system.
In conclusion
Forced type hoods for bathtubs and toilets make it possible to eliminate the increased humidity in the bathroom, as well as to remove extraneous odors that penetrate the room. Well-known and emerging brands produce low-cost and effective equipment. Installation work does not require special skills and a lot of time, while the device will become an indispensable assistant in the struggle for a comfortable home microclimate. In addition, mold and harmful fungus do not form on the walls and in the corners of the room.