How To Clean A Bathroom Exhaust Fan Efficiently

Many homeowners forget to clean the exhaust fan during bathroom cleaning. In fact, most people have the habit of overlooking it until it starts to sound loud. But doing so is very important since bathroom exhaust fans are the unsung heroes, running consistently in the background. They help prevent mould and mildew growth by swiftly eliminating the excess moisture while also reducing unpleasant odours. Basically, the fan pulls air into the unit and pushes it out through the vent.

However, the dust and debris on the fan and inside the vent will reduce the fan’s efficiency. This is why professional bond cleaners Gold Coast recommend cleaning the bathroom exhaust fan once every six months to ensure it is working efficiently. It will allow you to achieve proper ventilation in your bathroom. But it is important to learn the right cleaning method. Here is how to clean a bathroom exhaust fan efficiently. Apply these steps to ensure your bathroom exhaust fan is free of dust and debris.

1. Make Sure the Electrical Breaker is Turned Off

Before doing anything, it is essential to ensure electrical safety. You would not want to deal with any accidental shocks, which is why it is important to turn off the fan’s power switch and ensure that the electrical breaker to the bathroom is also turned off. In case you cannot turn off the breaker, it is best to completely avoid doing this task and instead hire a professional.

2. Eliminate Dust from the Fan’s Exterior

Get on a stepladder and use a vacuum cleaner with a crevice attachment to eliminate the visible dust from the outside of the exhaust fan. Doing so will ensure that dust does not fall on the floor when you take out the cover. This is why experts who do the best bond cleaning Gold Coast recommend doing this before proceeding.

3. Remove the Fan Cover and Unplug the Fan

Removing the fan cover is very straightforward. You just have to gently pull it away from the wall or ceiling. In a few models, you might need to use a screwdriver on the sides to remove the cover. Once it is removed, you will be able to clearly see the blades and motors of the fan. Fans are typically plugged into an outlet. It is important to unplug it before cleaning.

4. Use a DIY All-Purpose Cleaner to Clean the Vent Cover

Cleaning the exhaust fan is a crucial part of bathroom cleaning, which is why you should use an appropriate cleaning solution. Add 1 gallon of warm water, 1 tablespoon of dish soap, and ½ cup of white vinegar to a bucket. This DIY all-purpose cleaner is a very good option for cleaning the vent cover. Once the solution is prepared, submerge the cover and allow it to soak.

This will help remove the dust and grime buildup while you focus on the rest of the unit. After about 15 minutes, wipe the cover clean using a microfibre cloth. Follow up by rinsing in warm water. Next, expert bond cleaners Gold Coast recommend placing the vent cover on an absorbent towel. Let it air dry completely.

5. Clean the Motor and Fan Blades

It is recommended to remove the fan unit from the housing if that is possible. You can do so in most models with just a few twists. Next, use water to lightly moisten a microfiber cloth. Use it to wipe the dust away from the motor and fan blades. Alternatively, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a crevice attachment to get rid of the dust. In case it is not possible to remove the fan unit from the housing, use a moist cloth to eliminate as much dust as you can.

6. Remove Dust and Debris From the Recessed Housing

It is true that the recessed housing and brackets that keep the fan in place can capture dust. It is best to use the vacuum’s crevice attachment to eliminate as much debris as possible. You also have the option of using a duster for the same job. Do not forget the corners as well.

7. Reassemble the Exhaust Fan

After you have completed all the cleaning work, it is time to reassemble the exhaust fan. Firstly, position the fan back into the housing. Depending on the model, you can do so by reconnecting it to the bracket or screwing it in. After that, use your fingers to turn the fan blades to check whether or not they are hitting any part of the housing. Snap or screw the vent cover back in place once it is completely dry.

8. Turn the Fan On

According to the professionals who do cheap bond cleaning Gold Coast, once you have cleaned and reassembled the exhaust fan, it is a must to do a test run. Firstly, ensure the bathroom’s electrical breaker and the exhaust fan switch are turned on. In case you can hear clicking, you might need to adjust the fan blades. Checking if the fan is working properly is highly important to reduce the chances of mould growth. In case, there is already black mould, you will need to deal with it immediately.

Best Method for Cleaning a Bathroom Exhaust Fan:

Wrapping Up

Cleaning the bathroom exhaust fan is quite straightforward if you use the right method. By following the steps mentioned in this article, you will ensure your bathroom exhaust fan is free of dust and debris and works efficiently.