Window Extractor Fans

Frequently asked questions

How is a window extractor fan fitted?

The fan mounts through a round hole cut in the glass, with an inner and outer section clamped together through the pane. In single glazing a glazier can cut the hole in the existing pane. In double glazing you cannot cut an existing sealed unit, so a glazier makes a new unit with the hole built in. The hole size is on each product page, and varies between manufacturers, so order the fan before the glass.

What size window fan do I need?

As a guide, a 6 inch (150mm) fan suits a toilet, bathroom or small domestic kitchen, a 7 inch (180mm) or 9 inch (230mm) fan suits a larger kitchen, café or small workroom, and a 12 inch (300mm) fan suits bigger commercial rooms. For a domestic kitchen, Approved Document F asks for 60 l/s of intermittent extract where the fan is not over the hob, and 15 l/s for a bathroom, so check the fan's extract rate against the room.

Window fan or wall fan?

A wall or ceiling fan is usually neater and quieter, and is the better choice wherever you can core drill an outside wall. A window fan makes sense where the wall is too thick, is shared, or cannot be drilled, such as in rented or listed buildings, or where the only outside face of the room is glazing. It is also usually the quicker install where the glass is being replaced anyway.

Pull cord or wall switch?

Pull cord models, such as the Xpelair GXC9, have the switch built in, so they need only a fused spur and no separate switch wiring, which suits a quick replacement. Wall switched models are controlled from a separate switch, which is more convenient in a commercial kitchen or anywhere the fan is out of reach. Some models also run in reverse to bring fresh air in.

Do window fans close when they are switched off?

Most window fans include an internal or external shutter that closes when the fan stops, which keeps out draughts, rain and insects. Check the product page for the shutter type, particularly on an exposed elevation.

Can I fit a window extractor fan in a bathroom?

Yes, a 6 inch window fan is a common choice for a bathroom or toilet with a window and no outside wall to drill. Check the fan's position against the bathroom zones: within reach of the bath or shower it needs a suitable IP rating. If condensation is the main problem, a continuous running dMEV fan is often a better long term answer.

Do you supply window extractor fans for trade?

Yes. We supply electricians, M&E contractors, facilities teams and catering installers, and hold stock across the main ranges for next working day delivery. Send us a schedule and we will price the lot. Call 0161 399 3825 or email hello@efans.co.uk.