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10 Best Thru Wall Vent Fans
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
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Buying Guide for the Best Thru Wall Vent Fans
Choosing the right thru-wall vent fan is all about finding a model that matches your space, airflow needs, and installation preferences. These fans are designed to move air from inside to outside, helping control humidity, odors, and improve overall air quality in spaces where attic or roof venting isn't practical. Before shopping, think about the size of your room, how often you'll use the fan, and if noise will be a concern. Having a good match means your area will stay fresh, and the unit will run efficiently for years.Airflow (CFM)CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute and measures how much air the fan can move. This is crucial because it tells you if a fan is powerful enough for your room. Small spaces like bathrooms or utility closets often need a lower CFM (around 50–80 CFM), whereas larger rooms or spaces with high humidity, like laundry rooms or kitchens, will need a higher CFM (above 100). To decide, consider the size of your space or look up a simple CFM calculator: generally, the bigger the room or the more moisture/odor you wish to remove, the higher the CFM should be.
Noise Level (Sones or dB)The noise level of the vent fan is measured in sones or decibels (dB). This tells you how loud the fan will be during operation. Lower values mean a quieter fan. For bedrooms, bathrooms, or offices, you’ll likely want a model under 2 sones (or below 50 dB), as louder units can be distracting. For workshop or utility areas, noise may not be as important, so a higher rating could be acceptable. Decide how much noise you can tolerate, especially if your fan will run often or in a quiet part of the house.
Fan SizeFan size refers to the diameter or dimensions of the vent opening and fan blades. This impacts both airflow and the ease of installation. Smaller fans are best for compact spaces and thin walls, while larger sizes can handle bigger rooms and thicker walls. Be sure to measure your wall and review manufacturer installation requirements to ensure a proper fit in your intended location.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency means how much electricity the fan uses to move air. An efficient fan will do its job without wasting power, saving you money on electricity in the long run. Some fans have special ratings or certifications for efficiency, like ENERGY STAR. If the fan will be used frequently, or you care about electricity consumption, opt for a model with good efficiency—check for such labels or lower wattage in technical details.
Backdraft DamperA backdraft damper is a flap or mechanism that prevents outside air, insects, or debris from entering your room when the fan is off. This is important for comfort and to maintain indoor air quality. Some fans come with this feature built-in, while others may require you to add it. If you live in an area with extreme weather or want to avoid drafts, choose a model with a well-rated backdraft damper.
Ease of InstallationEase of installation covers how simple it is to mount the fan into a wall and connect it to power. Some models are designed for do-it-yourself projects, with clear instructions and included kits, while others may need professional help, especially if electrical or venting modifications are required. Think about your comfort with installation and whether you want a straightforward fit or are willing to get help from a contractor.
Control OptionsControl options refer to how you turn the fan on or off. Fans can be operated by a wall switch, pull cord, timer, or sometimes even a humidity sensor. Simple on/off switches are fine for basic needs, while advanced controls like timers or humidity sensors are great if you want the fan to run only when needed, improving energy efficiency and convenience. Consider your daily habits and pick a control style that fits your lifestyle.