How to Replace a Bath Exhaust Fan

A well-functioning exhaust fan helps eliminate mold, mildew and humidity from your bathroom. When it’s time for a change, it’s easy to replace. Learn how to replace a bath exhaust fan in this video by The Home Depot:

Start by finding the perfect fan for your space. It’s a good idea to measure the dimensions of your existing vent fan and purchase a slightly larger model.

You will need the following tools and supplies for this DIY project: aluminum foil backed tape, 1″ drywall screws, Romex connector or wire sleeve bushing, small wire nuts, soft rag, mild all-purpose cleaner spray, side cutter pliers, flat head screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver, hammer, cordless drill with Phillips head bit, nail pry bar, tape measure, pencil, safety glasses, and ladder.

1. Turn power off: Turn off the power source by shutting off the breaker.

2. Remove cover and motor: Remove the grill cover by gently pulling down and squeezing both springs together. Then remove the fan motor housing with a Phillips screwdriver and unplug the unit from the inside receptacle to remover the motor.

3. Disconnect wiring: Open the electrical junction and disconnect all of the wiring.

4. Remove pipe and wires: Unscrew the rough-in box and push up into the ceiling, remove the tape from the vent pipe, and disconnect. Loosen the screws on the Romex connector and remove the wires from the box.

5. Remove rough-in box: Remove the old fan rough-in box from the ceiling.

6. Prepare new fan: Remove the fan and motor housing from the new vent fan. Install a new Romex connector or bushing sleeve into the 1/2-inch hole of the electrical junction area in the rough-in box. Next, attach the vent flapper, making sure it is positioned with the flapper in the down position.

7. Connect wires: Slide the house wiring into the connector or sleeve and tighten the screws of the connector. Twist together the green wire on the fan and the house ground wire and secure with a wire nut. Repeat the process with the two black wires and then the white wires. Next, replace the cover on the electrical junction box.

8. Attach vent pipe: Push the rough-in into the ceiling and place the flexible vent pipe over the flapper, pushing it on two inches. Then take a piece of foil back tape and wrap it around the pipe.

9. Secure new unit: Place the new unit back into the cut opening. Use 1″ drywall screws to secure the unit to the joists. Now, plug the fan into the receptacle of the unit. Put the motor housing into the rough-in box and secure with a screw. Install the new vent fan grill by pinching together the spring arms and sliding them into the slots on the fan, then push up to secure.