BATHROOM EXHAUST FANS REMOVE MOISTURE
Most people think their bathroom exhaust fans are installed to remove odor and of course, they do that very well. However, that is not the most important job of bathroom exhaust fans.
The primary function of bathroom exhaust fans and dryer exhaust ducts is to prevent moisture buildup in your bathroom and laundry room, respectively. A bathroom exhaust fan draws moist air out of the room so that moisture cannot condense on surfaces such as your vanity, walls, and other bathroom fixtures.
Your dryer releases heat and moisture extracted from the laundry as it dries. The moist air is then routed through a dryer duct. This prevents the moisture from building up in your laundry room.
WHERE DOES THE MOISTURE GO?
Ideally, your bathroom exhaust fan (and your dryer exhaust) are exhausted through the roof to the outside. Unfortunately, we find many homes where the bathroom and dryer exhaust are not properly connected to duct work. Instead, the moist air that is drawn from the fan is released into the attic space which can lead to big problems over time.
AVOID THIS BIG MISTAKE
When bath fans exhaust (or dryers exhaust) releases into the attic, the moisture that is released can condense and buildup on surfaces including insulation and critical wood structures. During winter months when doors and windows are kept closed, managing bathroom moisture is even more important.
ATTIC MOISTURE DAMAGE
Moisture buildup on wood surfaces can lead to the deterioration of wooden support structures and the sheathing of your roof. Moisture penetrates the wood and splits the stringy fibers of the wood, weaken the stability of the wood. If left unaddressed, the damage can lead to premature aging and expensive damage to your roof.
If you store personal items in the attic any cardboard, paper, and cloth items can be destroyed. Moisture will often lead to mildew and mold. If mold develops and is left unaddressed, mold colonies will expand rapidly throughout the entire attic. At that point, mold mitigation is required.
Lastly, moisture can damage insulation. Wet insulation cannot properly insulate. When insulation is not working properly, heating and cooling systems must run longer to achieve comfortable living areas, increasing utility costs until the wet insulation is replaced.
SIGNS OF MOISTURE
Moisture is often evident in winter or spring when surfaces are wet to the touch. Other signs of moisture include dark stains on wood surfaces, evidence of mold growth. If the wood is soft and flaking, it is already deteriorating from the moisture. At this stage, repairs are necessary.
If you don’t see problems but discover your bath fans, dryer exhaust or both are exhausting in your attic, have the exhaust re-routed outside.
AN AFFORDABLE SOLUTION
Making sure your bathroom exhaust fans and your dryer exhaust is properly Properly vented outside, both need to be firmly connected to an insulated duct that vents the moist air outdoors, typically through the roof. This is an affordable improvement that can save you thousands of dollars worth of damage in the future.
We are Attic Air, we provide and install bathroom exhaust fans and install proper venting both new and existing bathroom fans and dryer vents.
NOT SURE ABOUT YOUR EXHAUST?
Call Attic Air For a Free Attic Assessment today! 630-830-3870