Exhaust Fan Facts

Ceiling mounted exhaust fans are a cheap and effective way to remove steam from bathrooms or cooking odours from a kitchen, provided they are done properly.

Without a working exhaust fan in place bathrooms quickly become mouldy and full of condensation and kitchens build up a greasy film on cupboards and surfaces near the hotplates.

The most common problem with exhaust fan installations is a lack of roof space above the fan to disperse the steam. You need somewhere for the steam to go to. It’s no good trying to pump hundreds of litres of steamy air into a space where the roof is just a couple of inches above the exhaust fan.

When there is not enough air space or the ceiling is very low above the fan the steam that is extracted condenses on the underside of the roof and drips back down through the fan.

The usual problem areas are flat roofs and lower floors in a multi storey building.

In these cases it may be possible to vent the fan out to the eaves or an outside wall. This is usually much easier in a new building than an already constructed building.

Regulations now require exhaust fans, Tastics and rangehoods to be vented to outside when installed in a newly constructed building.

If you are simply replacing an existing fitting that is not vented then the replacement usually doesn’t need to be vented.

Venting your exhaust fan is a good idea if it can be done, however some brands of vented fans are quite restricted in their airflow and don’t seem to perform as well as an unvented fan.

The other option is to cut a vent into the roof directly above the fan to direct the steam outside. These are typically a short tube with a “Chinaman’s Hat” style cap on top. These vents work well, but there is always a risk of future problems with water leaks whenever you cut a hole in your roof.

In some cases the only option may be a wall or window fan. Wall and window fans come with their own set of challenges. Click here to read our article and find out more about the benefits and problems of wall and window mounted exhaust fans.

Frequently asked questions

Can lightning damage my home even without a direct strike?

Yes. Your home can still be damaged even if lightning does not strike the building directly. A nearby strike can send energy through electrical wiring, plumbing, power lines, or the ground, which may damage your switchboard, appliances, and internal electrical systems.

How does lightning enter a house?

Lightning can enter a house through several pathways, including electrical wiring, switchboards, plumbing, phone and data lines, antenna cables, and ground current. This is why homes can be affected by nearby strikes as well as direct ones.

What happens when lightning strikes near your home?

When lightning strikes nearby, it can create dangerous power surges, trip circuits, damage appliances, affect your switchboard, and in some cases start electrical fires. Some damage is immediate, while other faults may remain hidden until later.

Can lightning really damage my computer, TV or appliances even if it doesn’t strike my house directly?

Yes, an indirect lightning strike, for example to nearby power lines, ground, or trees, can send powerful surges through wiring, data lines, or plumbing into your home and damage electronics. If a storm is approaching or thunder is heard, unplug non-essential devices immediately.

Is it safe to shower, wash dishes or use water during a thunderstorm?

No, plumbing and water conduct electricity, so using water during a storm is risky. Avoid showers, baths, sinks, washing machines, or other plumbing-connected appliances whenever there is thunder or lightning.

Are surge protectors enough to protect my home and devices from lightning?

Not necessarily. Surge protectors help with ordinary surges, but they are typically insufficient against the massive energy of a nearby or direct lightning strike. For better protection, consider grounding, whole-home surge arresters, or a full lightning protection system.

If lightning strikes nearby, but not my house, could my home still be at risk?

Yes. Ground current, soil conduction, or nearby strikes can transmit dangerous current through plumbing, wiring, or foundations, even when your home was not directly hit. Treat any thunderstorm seriously, unplug devices and avoid water or conductive contact until the storm passes.

Is it safe to use cordless or mobile phones during a thunderstorm?

Yes, as long as the phone is not plugged in or wired to the home’s electrical or phone system. Avoid using corded landline phones during storms.

How far away can lightning still be dangerous?

Lightning can still be dangerous even when the storm does not seem directly overhead. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be at risk and should move to proper shelter immediately.

Can lightning cause a house fire?

Yes. Lightning can overload wiring, damage switchboards, and ignite building materials, especially in homes with older electrical systems or inadequate surge protection.

Do I need lightning protection for my home?

Not every home needs a full lightning rod system, but many homes benefit from proper grounding, whole-home surge protection, and an up-to-date switchboard. A licensed electrician can assess your level of risk and recommend the most suitable protection.