Best Extractor Fan 2021 – Buyer’s Guide

Square fans are the norm, but if you’d rather opt for the best round model then this option is a good pick.

The design makes it unobtrusive and no squaring up is needed when installing, which should make it much easier. It is also slimline, so doesn’t take up much space at all.

A big standout is the Iris shutter design. When the fan is not in use, the air vent area completely closes, so no outside air will come into your room in the form of backdraughts. This saves having to purchase all those extras which block out the air.

The cover can be changed to better match the aesthetics of the room you are in, with a choice of Anthracite, Chrome, Sandstone and Silver available to purchase separately.

It isn’t silent, but is still on the quiet side. As there is the shutter design, you won’t find there is a lot of noise on windy nights or during storms, which is perfect if you want to replace your current model for these reasons.

An axial fan perfect for 4″ 100mm ducting, this model is one of the most powerful for its size.

It can be fitted to a ceiling, which is ideal if this is where your current gap is. It can also be hooked up to your light connection, so it comes on automatically when the main light is used and will remain on for a while after the light goes out so the room clears. Or, use a cord override to be able to control it a little more.

There is a handy timer option where 5, 20 or 30 minutes run-on time can be selected, or in automatic mode it self-calculates the time needed to clear the room. The shut off time can also be adjusted between 1 and 30 minutes, so whether you have a large room or a lot of steam is produced, you can pick the exact time needed.

Not only is it powerful, but it is also quiet when working. It was awarded the Quiet Mark in 2013, so the noise of the fan isn’t going to annoy you as you take your shower. To be more technical, the sound output is 26.5 dB at 3 metres, which is rated A.

When you need a wall-mounted extractor fan which can stay on for long enough to actually clear the room, then the MG100T is ideal.

You get a 20 minute timer option, so it will be on for long enough to get the job done without sending your bills skyrocketing.

It contains a high quality ball bearing motor. This not only makes the job of the extraction on the quiet side, but also prolongs the life of the unit. It could last twice as long as some other models without this, and can be mounted on both the wall or ceiling so will suit your needs.

It is made from high gloss ABS thermoplastics for strength, durability and ease of cleaning. Plus it looks the part too.

The latest model in Manrose’s long list of extraction fans to incorporate powerful suction with  quiet noise.

It is designed for wall and ceiling mounting, so while best for a bathroom, it can also be used in kitchens. The 75m3/hr extraction rate is sufficient enough to get rid of both steam from showers and baths or smoke and smells from your cooking.

The noise level is 27dB, which gives it an A rating, and can give you a 60% reduction in noise compared to some other 4” rivals. You will be able to hear it ever so slightly if in the same room of course, but once the door is closed you won’t even be able to tell it is on.

Manrose also state that it is the most environmentally friendly fan in their range, so you can keep it running without worrying about how much it is costing you and how much electricity it is using.

Thanks to a slim profile of only 17mm, this is one of the most unobtrusive extraction fans you can buy. It is great for both vertical and horizontal fitting, so whether it be a wall, ceiling or window you need it on, it will still do its job.

The Vent-Axia Silhouette 100T has a timer option, making it ideal for anyone who wants it to work its magic until the job is done. This can be set between 5 and 30 minutes, and it can remove up to 21 litres of moisture per second. There is also an indication light which lets you know when it is on.

There is a back draught shutter, so there is no chance of air getting into your home. Very much needed when Winter hits but the condensation and steam in your bathroom doesn’t stop.

Smaller bathrooms may struggle with wall space, especially when it comes to external walls. If this is the case for you and your fan needs to be installed inside a bath or shower area, then a shower kit could be ideal.

The ABS thermoplastic & PVC bathroom shower extractor fan kit is splash-resistant, so a bit of water will not harm the workings. There is a timer, meaning that for up to 20 minutes after the lights are switched off and you leave the bathroom, it can still run to ensure the room is completely cleared.

The external grille isn’t the prettiest, but when it is as functional as this, we would say it is an easy thing to put up with. You get a 3m long duct hose with the purchase which is great so you can get started.

A really clever little fan which will have your back when you need it the most, the Air Vent is perfect for kitchens.

The shutters behind the grille are thermally activated. They open slowly when the unit is turned on, then close slowly after being turned off. An inbuilt pull cord lets you control the power, which is essential in kitchen.

This also means that they won’t be open when the fan is not in use, so the risk of letting through cold air is minimal.

The actual cord is nice and long, so when you put the fan as high as it will go, you should still be able to reach to turn it on and off. The cable can also come in to the unit through the side, back or top, so you get a choice on how best to adapt it to your kitchen.

This is the kitchen-suitable version of Manrose’s Gold Bathroom fan. It is suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting, and a long lasting ball bearing motor means it should last for a good few years.

It is relatively easy to install, and the ABS thermoplastic material makes it simple to keep clean. Fans can often become discoloured with cooking fumes over the years, turning a slightly yellowish tint. Even when the fan is working in overdrive, some can still escape.

So this material makes it easy to give an occasional wipe clean and keep looking as good as new throughout its lifespan. It is also quiet when on and has a standard design so won’t look like an eyesore.

Overall, though, it does what it is meant to – the suction is hugely powerful, and you can really see the difference as it dispels smoke and steam in seconds.

Complete with a pull cord so you can flick it on and off as you wish, this kitchen-appropriate extractor fan is solid and reliable.

It is a standard model, so if you already have an extraction fan in place, there is a good chance this will be a nice clean swap for it. You can mount it either on your wall or window, depending on what is best for you and your kitchen layout.

Using a pre-oiled ball bearing motor, the longevity of the fan should be increased – up to 2x as much possibly. Many start to wear away after a few years with regular use and all the moisture they have to remove, but this one is designed to give you a good bit more use.

The noise it a bit on the upper side. This may be a bit of a pain if you like to have a nice peaceful meal time or cooking session, and is why it is best in the kitchen as opposed to the bathroom.

Able to operate in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 50°C, this fan can be installed anywhere from directly above an oven or cooker to the corner of the bathroom which is usually on the chillier side in Winter. You could also install it in rooms such as loft spaces or garages if they suffer from mould too.

One thing you don’t see often in extractor fans is the Mosquito net design which this OOPPEN has. This prevents insects or dust and small particles entering your home, and will also reduce the likelihood of draughts.

There is also an option to buy one with a pull cord, so you can use it on demand or if you don’t have the required three wire fitting space for an automatic model. There is a light to increase the level of lighting in your room too, which is a lovely touch.