Why is my bathroom fan so loud?

Dust buildup on the blades causes imbalance and noise. Cleaning often restores quiet operation.

How do I know if my exhaust fan is working?

Hold a tissue near the fan while it's running. If it's sucked toward the fan, it's working. If it falls or blows away, there's a problem.

Yes. A clogged fan doesn't remove humidity, creating the damp conditions mold needs to grow.

Clean first. If it's still noisy or weak after cleaning, the motor may be failing. Fans typically last 10-15 years.

Bathroom

Your bathroom exhaust fan is one of the most-used surfaces in your home. Here's how to get it spotless and keep it that way.

1
Turn off the fan
Switch off the fan and flip the circuit breaker for safety. Never clean an active electrical component.
2
Remove the cover
Most covers pull down and unclip. Some may require a screwdriver. Take the cover to the sink.
3
Wash the cover
Soak the cover in warm water with Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner. Scrub with a cloth to remove dust and grime. Let dry completely.
4
Clean the fan and housing
Use the vacuum brush attachment to clean dust from the fan blades and housing. Wipe accessible surfaces with a damp cloth.
5
Reassemble
Once the cover is dry, reattach it and restore power. Turn on the fan to verify it works properly.

TIPA clogged exhaust fan doesn't ventilate properly, which means your bathroom stays humid and mold-prone after showers.
TIPClean the exhaust fan every 6 months. Set a calendar reminder -- it's easy to forget.
TIPWhile the cover is off, check that the duct is still connected to the fan housing. Disconnected ducts vent moisture into the attic.

XCleaning while the fan is powered on, which is a safety hazard and can damage the fan motor.
XNever cleaning the fan, which reduces airflow and allows mold to grow in the humid bathroom.
XPutting a wet cover back on, which drips into the electrical housing.

Every 6 months. More often if you notice reduced airflow or the fan is noisier than usual.