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You’ve installed an extractor fan. Job done, right? Not quite. One of the most common bathroom renovation mistakes is assuming that any fan will do the trick. But without the right placement, size and performance, even a brand-new fan can fall short.
Jennifer Price, Strategic Brands Manager for Plumbing World, says it’s not just about having a fan, it’s about how you use it. Many people assume their fan is working properly, when in reality it’s not pulling out enough moisture or clearing the room fast enough. That leaves steam lingering, which leads to mould, water damage and a bathroom that never really feels dry.
The most effective fans are sized correctly for the space and placed where the steam is. If it’s too far from the shower or underpowered for the room, it won’t do much. Fans should also be vented to the outside, not just into the roof cavity, or you’ll simply be moving moisture from one problem area to another.
It’s also a good idea to leave the fan running for a few minutes after you’ve finished showering. Some models come with timers or humidity sensors to make this automatic. If yours doesn’t, just switch it on while you shower and leave it on while you get ready. That alone can help prevent build-up and reduce cleaning time.
Ventilation isn’t just a box to tick. Done properly, it protects your bathroom and keeps it looking fresh for years to come. If you’re not sure whether your fan is doing the job, ask a professional to check its rating and placement.
If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom, our Renovating Your Bathroom Guides are packed with practical advice, planning tips and expert insights to help you get it right. Whether you’re staying put in your home, buying or selling, Join MyTrends to unlock a full library of guides designed to support you at each stage of your property journey.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.
Search similar articles
You’ve installed an extractor fan. Job done, right? Not quite. One of the most common bathroom renovation mistakes is assuming that any fan will do the trick. But without the right placement, size and performance, even a brand-new fan can fall short.
Jennifer Price, Strategic Brands Manager for Plumbing World, says it’s not just about having a fan, it’s about how you use it. Many people assume their fan is working properly, when in reality it’s not pulling out enough moisture or clearing the room fast enough. That leaves steam lingering, which leads to mould, water damage and a bathroom that never really feels dry.
The most effective fans are sized correctly for the space and placed where the steam is. If it’s too far from the shower or underpowered for the room, it won’t do much. Fans should also be vented to the outside, not just into the roof cavity, or you’ll simply be moving moisture from one problem area to another.
It’s also a good idea to leave the fan running for a few minutes after you’ve finished showering. Some models come with timers or humidity sensors to make this automatic. If yours doesn’t, just switch it on while you shower and leave it on while you get ready. That alone can help prevent build-up and reduce cleaning time.
Ventilation isn’t just a box to tick. Done properly, it protects your bathroom and keeps it looking fresh for years to come. If you’re not sure whether your fan is doing the job, ask a professional to check its rating and placement.
If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom, our Renovating Your Bathroom Guides are packed with practical advice, planning tips and expert insights to help you get it right. Whether you’re staying put in your home, buying or selling, Join MyTrends to unlock a full library of guides designed to support you at each stage of your property journey.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.
Search similar articles
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Askö
Furniture designed for life. Ethically made dining and living furniture and accessories by international and New Zealand designers where refined elegance meets sleek, contemporary form. Explore our extensive range of designer furniture via our Christchurch showroom or browse online.
Plumbing World
Plumbing World is New Zealand’s most prominent 100% Kiwi-owned national plumbing merchant, operating over 50 branches from Kerikeri to Invercargill. Plumbing World offers a wide range of bathroom, kitchen, laundry, heating, and hot water products, catering to trade professionals and homeowners.
Landmark Homes
Founding directors Paul and Debbie Clarke established Landmark Homes in 1977. Their vision was to offer “something more exciting” than the average home: a home that made creative use of space but was also beautiful to live in.
Poggenpohl
Poggenpohl is a premium German kitchen brand known for its innovation, timeless design, and precision craftsmanship, offering bespoke kitchen solutions that blend luxury with functionality.
Mastercraft Kitchens
Mastercraft was the brainchild of Murray Belz, a Chief’s supporter with an eye for design, a tonne of ideas and a passion for excellence.
Kitchen Studio
At Kitchen Studio we are very proud of the fact that we are been voted the most trusted kitchen brand in New Zealand for the ninth year running, and there are good reasons why more Kiwis trust us to transform their kitchen than anyone else.
Kitchen Things
Kitchen Things is a 100% locally owned and operated family business that pioneered European cooking in 1986. We specialise in high quality, premium European cooking appliances and our cooking range is complemented with dishwashing, refrigeration, laundry, sinks, taps and small appliances.
Portfolios
View Industry Specialists
Askö
Furniture designed for life. Ethically made dining and living furniture and accessories by international and New Zealand designers where refined elegance meets sleek, contemporary form. Explore our extensive range of designer furniture via our Christchurch showroom or browse online.
Plumbing World
Plumbing World is New Zealand’s most prominent 100% Kiwi-owned national plumbing merchant, operating over 50 branches from Kerikeri to Invercargill. Plumbing World offers a wide range of bathroom, kitchen, laundry, heating, and hot water products, catering to trade professionals and homeowners.
Landmark Homes
Founding directors Paul and Debbie Clarke established Landmark Homes in 1977. Their vision was to offer “something more exciting” than the average home: a home that made creative use of space but was also beautiful to live in.
Poggenpohl
Poggenpohl is a premium German kitchen brand known for its innovation, timeless design, and precision craftsmanship, offering bespoke kitchen solutions that blend luxury with functionality.
Mastercraft Kitchens
Mastercraft was the brainchild of Murray Belz, a Chief’s supporter with an eye for design, a tonne of ideas and a passion for excellence.
Kitchen Studio
At Kitchen Studio we are very proud of the fact that we are been voted the most trusted kitchen brand in New Zealand for the ninth year running, and there are good reasons why more Kiwis trust us to transform their kitchen than anyone else.
Kitchen Things
Kitchen Things is a 100% locally owned and operated family business that pioneered European cooking in 1986. We specialise in high quality, premium European cooking appliances and our cooking range is complemented with dishwashing, refrigeration, laundry, sinks, taps and small appliances.