Can I install a whole-house fan in my bathroom?

Question

I'm thinking about installing a whole-house fan, but I'm a bit worried about the back-draft leaks that I've read about (apparently air from the attic can leak back into the house when it's turned off). If I installed the fan in my bathroom, I could simply close the bathroom door during the day to stop draft problems rather than attaching a fan cover after each use. Could I install the fan here, or would I run into some kind of moisture problem? (the bathroom has a shower) I wouldn't be using the fan as a bathroom vent, since one already exists here.

Answer 1

I do not think installing the whole home fan in a bathroom is a great idea. The whole purpose of the fan is to circulate the air out of the house to keep it cooler. Having the fan in the center of the house is a wiser decision. The fans have greatly improved over the years, and you can get dampeners so that you do not have the loss of heat in the winter. Since you are asking this question, I doubt you should attempt this project on your own, call in a professional to do the job right in the first place, it will save you money in the long run.

Answer 2

Personally I would put it in the hallway if possible, when you turn it on and it starts to suck the hot air out of the house into the attic do you think it would have enough power to also make a stringy mess with your toilet paper etc.

Answer 3

We had one in our hallway between the bedrooms.
It had automatic louvers that closed it when not in use.
We never had a back draft when not in use.

Check with Home Depot or Lowe's to see if they still carry them.

I would think if it is installed in the bathroom, yes, you are risking the chance of rust.

Answer 4

If you was smart enough to do it. I doubt you can!