Problem: Moisture can build up in bathrooms and cause mildew.
Solution: Install an exhaust vent to prevent moisture from building up in the bathroom.
Materials list:
hammer
needle-nose pliers
wire strippers
crimping tool
side cutters (wire cutters)
drill, with Phillips driver bit
one or two screwdrivers
wire tester
tape measure
drywall saw
electrical cable
dust mask
safety goggles
- Turn off the power at the breaker box.
- Remove the existing light fixture.
- Disengage the wiring connections and test them to be sure the power is off.
- From the attic, remove the bathroom fixture junction box from the joist.
- Mark the location of the joist on the bathroom ceiling. Joists are usually on 24" centers, so you will probably have room to do this project. However, it's a good idea to check for any obstructions before you begin cutting the ceiling.
- Use the fan housing as a template to mark cutout lines on the ceiling, then cut along the lines with the drywall saw.
- Run a length of electrical cable into the junction box. Strip the sheeting and insulation. Crimp the ground wires and connect white wires to white wires and black wires to black wires. Secure the connections with wire nuts.
- Install a cover on the junction box.
- Run the other end of the wire to the fan housing and make the appropriate connections.
- Push the fan housing through the hole in the ceiling and set it in place.
- Make sure the bottom of the housing is flush with the ceiling and secure the housing to the joist.
- Connect the exhaust duct to the housing with clamping straps.
- Cut holes in the outside wall and insert the vent cap from outside the house.
- Connect the duct to the vent cap and fasten the vent cap to the wall.
- Insert the light kit into the grill assembly.
- Complete any remaining electrical connections.
- Secure the light kit and grill assembly to the housing.
- Install a light bulb and attach the lens cover.
- Turn on the breaker and test the exhaust vent.
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