10 Best Bath Fans 2025 in the United States

The Broan-NuTone 678 Ventilation Fan and Light Combo is designed for small rooms, including bathrooms up to 45 square feet. With an airflow capacity of 50 CFM, it is suitable for ventilating smaller spaces effectively. The noise level is mildly noticeable at 2.5 sones, which is moderate but might be a bit loud for some users seeking quieter operation.

It boasts a shatter-resistant light diffusing lens for durability and quality lighting. Installation is made user-friendly with polymeric duct connectors and a plug-in, permanently lubricated motor, making it a good choice for DIY enthusiasts. The design is practical, featuring a white polymeric grille that blends well with most decors.

One notable feature is its dual functionality as both a light and exhaust fan, adding convenience but lacking advanced functions like humidity sensors or timers which are available in some higher-end models. It fits standard electrical plugs and does not require batteries, simplifying its setup and use. This product is ideal for users needing a basic, reliable fan and light combo for small bathrooms. It excels in ease of installation and practical design but may fall short in energy efficiency and quietness for some users.

The Panasonic FV-0511VFL1 WhisperFit DC Retrofit Ventilation Fan with Light offers a versatile and efficient solution for bathroom ventilation needs. One of its main strengths is the adjustable airflow capacity, providing options of 50, 80, or 110 cubic feet per minute (CFM). This flexibility is great for different room sizes and ventilation requirements. The fan operates quietly at a noise level of 1.5 sones, making it less intrusive during use, which is essential for a peaceful bathroom environment.

Energy efficiency is a highlight, as it is Energy Star certified and features a high-efficiency ECM motor with SmartFlow Technology, ensuring optimal performance while saving energy and reducing utility costs. The built-in dimmable LED light and nightlight add convenience and functionality, providing sufficient illumination and a gentle night light option for nighttime use.

Installation is simplified with the single-hinged Flex-Z Fast bracket, making it easier for homeowners to retrofit the fan into existing setups without much hassle. However, weighing 9.9 pounds and requiring a corded electric power source might be considered bulky and less flexible compared to some wireless alternatives. Its modern style and white finish are likely to blend well with most bathroom décors. This fan is particularly beneficial for users seeking a quiet, energy-efficient, and easy-to-install ventilation solution with added lighting features.

The Broan-NuTone® BE8 Bathroom Exhaust Fan is an efficient choice for ventilating small bathrooms. With an airflow capacity of 80 CFM, it's designed to effectively reduce moisture and odors in spaces up to 75 square feet. This fan stands out for its quiet operation, producing only 1.5 sones, which is just enough to tell it's working without disrupting the peace of your bathroom.

Additionally, it is ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it consumes about 50% less energy compared to standard models, making it a green and cost-effective option for homeowners looking to save on utility bills. The fan also features a no-cut roomside installation, allowing for easy retrofit installations without requiring attic access or cutting into drywall, and the SlideClip technology simplifies the attachment and cleaning of the grille/cover.

Its seamless design ensures it blends well with most bathroom decors due to its modern CleanCover grille. The fan might not be suitable for larger bathrooms due to its limited airflow capacity of 80 CFM. Additionally, some users might find the springless SlideClip attachment slightly tricky if they are not familiar with this type of installation. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Broan-NuTone® BE8 is an excellent choice for small bathrooms, combining quiet operation, energy efficiency, and straightforward installation.