What are the Different Types of Extractor Fans in London?

What Do Extractor Fans Do?

Extractor fans are a must-have for homes and businesses. They do more than just clear the air. They remove moisture from bathrooms and kitchens, stopping condensation that can lead to mould and mildew. Plus, variants like cooker extractor fans can get rid of cooking smells, smoke, and pollutants, making your space healthier and fresher.

Think about it, mould isn’t just gross. It can cause health issues like asthma and allergies (the NHS even warns about this). A good extractor fan keeps your home well-ventilated, protecting your health and your family's.

It’s not just about health, though. Extractor fans also help keep your property in great shape. By getting rid of damp air, they prevent damage to paint, wallpaper, and materials. That means fewer repairs and more money saved.

If you’re based in London? Count on us for reliable extractor fan replacement services.

Types of Extractor Fans Based on Installation Location

Wall-Mounted Extractor Fans

Wall-mounted extractor fans are a popular choice for London homes. They’re installed directly onto external walls, so any stale air gets pushed straight outside. These are especially common in Victorian terraces and modern flats since they often have easy access to external walls.

The installation is pretty simple, making them a cost-effective option for both new setups and replacements. If you’re looking for reliable performance, models like the Vent Axia extractor fan series are a great pick for most bathrooms and kitchens.

Wall-Mounted Extractor Fans

If your property doesn’t have an external wall suitable for a fan, don’t worry, window-mounted extractor fans can save the day. These are designed to fit directly into window frames, making them perfect for older London homes with sash windows or for spaces where wall mounting just isn’t an option.

The Manrose extractor fan range has plenty of window-mounted options, offering effective ventilation without the need for major structural changes.

Ceiling-Mounted Extractor Fans

Ceiling integrated extractor fans are a sleek solution that blends into your space. These are installed in the ceiling and typically connect to ducting that vents outside through the roof. They’re a great choice for modern London apartments or properties with suspended ceilings.

If you want great air circulation for your bath, bathroom ceiling extractor fans are hard to beat. They can be positioned exactly where you need them for the best coverage and maximum efficiency.

Inline/Ducted Extractor Fans

Inline extractor fans are installed within ducting, usually hidden away in loft spaces or ceiling voids. This setup is perfect for larger London homes or even commercial properties where you need to run longer ducting.

These integrated extractor fans are powerful enough to maintain good air extraction rates even over extended distances, making them an ideal choice for more complex ventilation setups and for larger spaces that need good ventilation.

Read our blog: A Complete Guide to Kitchen Ventilation for Small Flats in London
Discover practical tips and solutions to keep your kitchen fresh and well-ventilated, even in compact London spaces.

Types of Extractor Fans Based on Mechanism

Axial Fans

Axial extractor fans are a great choice if you’re looking for something simple and cost-effective. These fans move air straight along their axis, which makes them perfect for short duct runs of up to 1.5–2 metres.

That’s why you’ll often find them in small bathrooms and kitchens in London flats. They’re easy to install and get the job done. Keep in mind, though, they’re not the best fit for longer duct systems or situations where you need to handle high pressure.

Centrifugal Fans

Need something more powerful? Centrifugal extractor fans are designed for longer duct runs (over 3 metres) and high-pressure systems. They use centrifugal force to push air out, making them ideal for larger homes or commercial kitchens where strong extraction is a must.

If you’re after performance, the Vent Axia extractor fan centrifugal models are hard to beat. Just remember. They’re a bit noisier and pricier compared to axial fans, but they’re worth it for more demanding setups.

Mixed Flow Fans

Mixed flow extractor fans are like the best of both worlds. They combine features from axial and centrifugal designs, using hybrid blades to move a lot of air over longer distances. These fans are super efficient and are becoming a popular choice for modern installations.

If you want something versatile and reliable, mixed flow fans are definitely worth considering.

Types of Extractor Fans Based on Operation

Standard Extractor Fans

Standard extractor fans are as simple as they get. They turn on and off with a wall switch or pull cord. They’re a go-to choice for budget-friendly London renovations where you just need basic, reliable ventilation.

Timer Extractor Fans

Timer extractor fans keep running for a set time after you’ve switched them off, making sure all the moisture and odours are gone. They’re especially handy for London homes looking to meet Building Regulations Part F, ensuring bathrooms stay fresh and well-ventilated.

Humidistat Extractor Fans

Humidistat extractor fans are a bit smarter. They kick in automatically when the humidity gets too high. Perfect for damp-prone London properties like basement flats or spaces with limited natural ventilation. These fans help prevent mould by keeping humidity in check, and the best part is that there's no need to fiddle with switches!

Motion-Sensing Extractor Fans

Motion-sensing extractor fans are super convenient. They turn on automatically when they detect movement. Ideal for commercial restrooms or spaces that don’t get used often, where someone might forget to turn the fan on.

Continuous Running Extractor Fans (DMEV and CMEV)

DMEV fans provide constant, low-level ventilation with a boost option when extra airflow is needed, while CMEV systems handle whole-house ventilation from a central unit. These are becoming more popular in new London builds since they help meet energy efficiency standards and Building Regulations.

Specialised Types of Extractor Fans

Types of Extractor Fans Kitchen

Kitchen extractor fans are mainly built to handle the heat. Designed for high temperatures, grease, and strong cooking odours, these extractor fan kitchens are essential for busy London restaurants or larger homes.

A standard bathroom fan just won’t cut it here.

Heat Recovery Fans (MVHR Units)

Heat Recovery Ventilation units are clever systems that pull out stale air while recovering heat to warm up the fresh air coming in. They’re super energy-efficient and are becoming a go-to choice for eco-conscious Londoners and Passivhaus projects. Plus, they can cut down on heating costs while keeping your indoor air quality top-notch, perfect for those energy-efficient home upgrades.

Silent/Quiet Extractor Fans

Hate the noise that extractor fans make? Silent fans are here to save the day! They’re designed to run super quietly, making them a great choice for London apartments where keeping the peace with your neighbours matters.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Extractor Fan

Room Size and Ventilation

First, figure out your room’s size by multiplying the length, width, and height. Then, multiply that by 7-10 air changes per hour to get the extraction rate you need.

For bathrooms, Building Regulations say you’ll need 15 litres per second, while extractor fan kitchens typically require 30-60 litres per second, depending on how you use the space.

Noise Levels

No one wants a noisy fan, especially in densely packed areas like London. Look for fans with noise levels under 45dB for a quieter home.

Energy Efficiency

These days, extractor fans are way more energy-efficient. Some run on as little as 5-8 watts when on continuously. If you’re serious about long-term savings, heat recovery systems are the way to go.

Building Regulations

Make sure your fan ticks all the boxes for UK Building Regulations, like Part F covers ventilation, and Part L covers energy efficiency. For the best results (and peace of mind), it’s worth having a professional handle the installation.

Installation and Maintenance

To get the most out of the extractor fans that you install, it's important that you install them properly and maintain them when possible.

Who Installs Extractor Fans in Bathrooms?

If you need an extractor fan installed, a professional electrician is the way to go, especially for mains-powered units that need proper wiring.

If you’re in London, it’s important to hire qualified tradespeople who know the local building codes and safety rules.

At Serviceteam, our experienced electricians can handle your extractor fan installation, making sure everything is safe, compliant, and working perfectly.

How Much to Install Extractor Fan in Bathroom?

Costs depend on the type of fan and the complexity of the job. Replacing a simple wall-mounted fan usually costs around £100-200.

If it’s a new installation that requires extra ducting or electrical work, you’re looking at £200-500. Inline systems and MVHR units are more expensive but offer better performance.

How Much to Replace the Extractor Fan?

Replacement costs vary depending on what’s already in place.

Swapping out a similar unit is pretty affordable, costing around £50-150. If you’re upgrading and need new ducting or wiring, the cost can range from £150 to £400.

Need a quote for installing, repairing, or replacing an extractor fan? Reach out to Serviceteam. Our skilled technicians provide straightforward pricing and top-notch service across London!

Do Extractor Fans Need to Vent Outside?

Extractor fans don’t always have to vent outside, but it’s definitely the best way to get rid of moisture and odours. In London homes, where space is tight, recirculating fans with carbon filters are a common choice. That said, venting outside is usually better for keeping dampness at bay and improving air quality, especially in smaller spaces.

Transform Your Indoor Air Quality Today

Picking the right extractor fan is key to keeping your home fresh and comfortable. Whether it’s a high-powered bathroom fan or a sleek MVHR system, there’s something to suit every home and budget in London.

We’re proud to provide London homeowners and landlords with reliable, top-quality ventilation solutions that are tailored to your needs. Give us a shout- we’ll sort it!

FAQs

What extractor fan is best for bathroom?

For London homes, quiet and efficient options like the Vent-Axia Silent Fan are super popular, and they’re designed specifically for bathrooms.

What is the most powerful bathroom extractor fan UK?

If you’re after serious power, fans like the Xpelair extractor fan C4 Pro and Manrose extractor fan MF100T models are great picks. They’re perfect for tackling heavy condensation, especially in smaller London bathrooms that don’t get much airflow.

What size are extractor fans UK?

Bathroom extractor fans in the UK usually come in 4-inch or 6-inch sizes. Most London bathrooms stick with 4-inch fans, but if your bathroom is bigger, a 6-inch fan might do a better job. Make sure to measure your space first!

What is the best extractor fan for bathroom condensation?

Fans like the Manrose QF100T and EnviroVent Silent Fan are spot-on for getting rid of excess moisture. They’re ideal for London’s humid bathrooms and can help keep damp and mould at bay.

What are the most powerful bathroom extractor fans?

Looking for top-tier power? The Vent-Axia ACM100 and Airflow Icon 30 are designed to handle high moisture levels. They’re a great choice if you want to improve air circulation and avoid condensation problems in your London home.