Bathroom fans are an essential part of any bathroom, providing ventilation and reducing moisture levels to prevent mold and mildew growth. When it comes to choosing a bathroom fan, one of the most important factors to consider is the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating. CFM measures the amount of air a fan can move in a minute, with higher CFM ratings indicating more powerful and efficient fans. Two common CFM ratings for bathroom fans are 80 CFM and 110 CFM, but which one should you choose?
Understanding 80 CFM and 110 CFM
Before we dive into the differences between 80 CFM vs 110 CFM, let’s take a quick look at what they are.
80 CFM
80 CFM bathroom fans are suitable for small to medium-sized bathrooms, typically up to 80 square feet. They are generally less powerful and more affordable than higher CFM bathroom fans, but still offer adequate ventilation for most bathrooms.
110 CFM
110 CFM bathroom fans are suitable for larger bathrooms, typically over 80 square feet. They are more powerful and efficient than 80 CFM bathroom fans, and can effectively reduce moisture levels and prevent mold and mildew growth.
Differences between 80 CFM and 110 CFM
Now that we know what 80 CFM and 110 CFM are, let’s explore their differences.
Ventilation Power
The most noticeable difference between 80 CFM vs 110 CFM is their ventilation power. 110 CFM bathroom fans are more powerful and can move more air than 80 CFM bathroom fans, making them more efficient at reducing moisture levels and preventing mold and mildew growth.
Noise Level
Another significant difference between 80 CFM vs 110 CFM is the noise level. 110 CFM bathroom fans tend to be louder than 80 CFM bathroom fans due to their higher ventilation power. If noise level is a concern, it’s recommended to look for bathroom fans with lower sone ratings, which measure the loudness of the fan.
Price
When it comes to price, 80 CFM bathroom fans tend to be more affordable than 110 CFM bathroom fans. However, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of a more powerful bathroom fan in preventing moisture damage and promoting air quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 80 CFM vs 110 CFM offer different ventilation power and noise levels, with 110 CFM being more powerful and louder than 80 CFM. Choosing between them depends on the size of your bathroom, noise level preferences, and budget. If you have a small to medium-sized bathroom and noise level is a concern, an 80 CFM bathroom fan may be suitable for your needs. If you have a larger bathroom and want more efficient ventilation, a 110 CFM bathroom fan may be a better option.
FAQs
Can you use an 80 CFM bathroom fan in a large bathroom?
It’s not recommended to use an 80 CFM bathroom fan in a large bathroom, as it may not provide adequate ventilation and could lead to moisture damage.
Are 110 CFM bathroom fans more expensive than 80 CFM bathroom fans?
Yes, 110 CFM bathroom fans tend to be more expensive than 80 CFM bathroom fans, due to their higher ventilation power and efficiency.
Do noise levels vary between different brands of bathroom fans?
Yes, noise levels can vary between different brands and models of bathroom fans. It’s recommended to check the sone rating and customer reviews before purchasing a bathroom fan.
How do you calculate the required CFM for your bathroom?
To calculate the required CFM for your bathroom, you can use the following formula:
Calculate the volume of your bathroom by multiplying the length, width, and height in feet.
Divide the volume by 7.5 to get the required CFM. For example, a bathroom with a volume of 150 cubic feet would require a fan with a CFM of at least 20 (150/7.5=20).
Can a bathroom fan with a higher CFM rating save energy?
Yes, a bathroom fan with a higher CFM rating can actually save energy by efficiently removing moisture and reducing the workload on your air conditioning and heating systems. However, it’s important to choose a bathroom fan with an appropriate CFM rating for your bathroom size to avoid over-ventilating and wasting energy.
Overall, choosing between 80 CFM vs 110 CFM for your bathroom fan depends on the size of your bathroom, noise level preferences, and budget. Consider the long-term benefits of a more powerful bathroom fan in preventing moisture damage and promoting air quality, and calculate the required CFM for your bathroom before making a purchase.
