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10 Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan Quiet 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Panasonic WhisperFit Retrofit Ceiling Mount Bathroom Exhaust Fan, 50-80-110 CFM, FV-0511VF1

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,399
Noise Level (Sones)
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
1293 reviews

Noise Level (Sones)
The fan operates almost silently, even at the highest setting, effectively removing moisture and odors without the typical loud noise.
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Even at a lower setting of 80 CFM, the ventilation remains impressive, handling complex duct setups with ease.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a standout feature, thanks to the DC motor, which helps in lowering energy costs over time.
Installation Type
This Panasonic bath fan combines ease of installation, a clean look, quiet operation, reliability, and effective ventilation.

The Panasonic FV-0511VF1 WhisperFit DC Fan is designed to meet the needs of anyone looking for a quiet and efficient bathroom exhaust fan. With a noise level of just 25 dB, it operates almost silently, making it an excellent choice for maintaining peace in home environments. The fan’s airflow capacity ranges from 50 to 110 CFM, which you can easily adjust using the built-in Pick-A-Flow airflow selector. This flexibility allows it to effectively ventilate spaces of varying sizes, whether it's a small bathroom or a larger laundry room.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the single-hinged Flex-Z Fast bracket, which accommodates different joist sizes, and its low-profile housing design makes it easy to fit into tight spaces. It’s also Energy Star-certified, ensuring it won't drive up your electricity bill, which is a plus for eco-conscious consumers.

The fan excels in many areas, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. The manual control method might not appeal to users looking for more modern, automated options. Some users might also find that the fan’s performance could vary based on specific installation conditions. Additionally, while it is recognized for its energy efficiency, those expecting integrated lighting features should note that this model does not include any light source.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,399
Noise Level (Sones)
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
1293 reviews

Noise Level (Sones)
The fan operates almost silently, even at the highest setting, effectively removing moisture and odors without the typical loud noise.
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Even at a lower setting of 80 CFM, the ventilation remains impressive, handling complex duct setups with ease.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a standout feature, thanks to the DC motor, which helps in lowering energy costs over time.
Installation Type
This Panasonic bath fan combines ease of installation, a clean look, quiet operation, reliability, and effective ventilation.
#2

Broan-NuTone® BE8 Bathroom Exhaust Fan, 80 CFM, ENERGY STAR® Exhaust Fan, 1.5 Sones

Rating
10.0
Noise Level (Sones)
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
10057 reviews

Noise Level (Sones)
The fan is much quieter than older models, making it ideal for those who prefer a peaceful environment.
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Despite its quiet operation, the fan effectively ventilates the bathroom, maintaining good airflow.
Energy Efficiency
The energy efficiency of this fan is a notable improvement, even though specific power usage details were hard to find.
Installation Type
Installation is a breeze, especially if fitting into existing housing, eliminating the need for extensive renovations.

The Broan-NuTone® BE8 Bathroom Exhaust Fan is an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet and efficient ventilation solution for small bathrooms. It operates at a noise level of just 1.5 sones, which is quiet enough to maintain a peaceful environment while still being noticeable to the user. With an airflow capacity of 80 cubic feet per minute (CFM), it is suitable for ventilating rooms up to 75 square feet, effectively reducing moisture and odors. This makes it ideal for small to medium-sized bathrooms.

Additionally, being ENERGY STAR certified, it cuts energy consumption by about 50% compared to standard bath fans, which is a significant benefit for energy-conscious users. The fan's installation process is user-friendly, featuring a no-cut roomside installation that allows for retrofitting without attic access or drywall cutting. The innovative SlideClip technology further simplifies the attachment and cleaning process. The modern CleanCover grille design blends seamlessly with the ceiling, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom.

On the downside, the fan's plastic blade material may not be as durable as metal options, and its lightweight construction might raise concerns for some users about its long-term durability. However, this fan is a strong candidate for anyone needing a quiet and energy-efficient bathroom exhaust fan with straightforward installation.

Rating
10.0
Noise Level (Sones)
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
10057 reviews

Noise Level (Sones)
The fan is much quieter than older models, making it ideal for those who prefer a peaceful environment.
Airflow Capacity (CFM)
Despite its quiet operation, the fan effectively ventilates the bathroom, maintaining good airflow.
Energy Efficiency
The energy efficiency of this fan is a notable improvement, even though specific power usage details were hard to find.
Installation Type
Installation is a breeze, especially if fitting into existing housing, eliminating the need for extensive renovations.
#3

Broan-NuTone® BE6 Bathroom Exhaust Fan, 60 CFM, ENERGY STAR® Exhaust Fan 0.9 Sone

Rating
10.0
Noise Level (Sones)
Installation Type
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
10057 reviews

Noise Level (Sones)
Operates so quietly that it's easy to forget it's even on.
Installation Type
Installation is incredibly quick and straightforward, taking less than 10 minutes.
Energy Efficiency
Offers great value by combining energy efficiency with effective ventilation.

The Broan-NuTone BE6 bathroom exhaust fan is a solid choice for small bathrooms up to about 45 square feet. It offers a quiet operation at just 0.9 sones, which means the fan is barely noticeable when running—ideal if you want to keep bathroom noise low. With an airflow capacity of 60 CFM (cubic feet per minute), it effectively removes moisture and odors, helping prevent mold and mildew buildup. This fan is ENERGY STAR certified, so it uses about half the energy of standard fans, making it an energy-efficient option that can keep electricity costs down.

Installation is user-friendly, especially for retrofits, since it doesn’t require cutting drywall from inside the room, and the patented SlideClip design simplifies attaching and cleaning the fan cover. It also features a clean, modern grille that blends nicely with most bathroom ceilings. On the downside, this fan is designed for smaller bathrooms only, so it may not provide enough ventilation for larger spaces. It has a single speed setting, which might limit flexibility if you want to adjust airflow. Also, while quiet, it’s not completely silent—some sensitive users might still notice it.

If you want a straightforward, energy-efficient, and quiet fan for a small bathroom, the Broan-NuTone BE6 performs well with easy installation and minimal noise.

Rating
10.0
Noise Level (Sones)
Installation Type
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
10057 reviews

Noise Level (Sones)
Operates so quietly that it's easy to forget it's even on.
Installation Type
Installation is incredibly quick and straightforward, taking less than 10 minutes.
Energy Efficiency
Offers great value by combining energy efficiency with effective ventilation.

Buying Guide for the Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan Quiet

Choosing the right bathroom exhaust fan is essential for maintaining good air quality and preventing moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. When selecting a bathroom exhaust fan, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.
Noise Level (Sones)The noise level of a bathroom exhaust fan is measured in sones. This spec is crucial if you want a quiet fan that won't disturb the peace of your home. Fans with a lower sone rating are quieter. Typically, fans range from 0.3 to 4.0 sones. For a very quiet fan, look for a rating of 1.0 sones or less. If noise is not a major concern, a fan with a rating up to 2.0 sones can be acceptable. Consider your tolerance for noise and the location of the bathroom when choosing the right noise level.
Airflow Capacity (CFM)Airflow capacity, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), indicates how much air the fan can move. This is important for effectively ventilating your bathroom. The right CFM depends on the size of your bathroom. For small bathrooms (under 50 square feet), a fan with 50 CFM is usually sufficient. For larger bathrooms, calculate the required CFM by multiplying the room's square footage by 1.1. For example, a 100-square-foot bathroom would need a fan with at least 110 CFM. Choose a fan with the appropriate CFM to ensure proper ventilation.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is important for reducing electricity consumption and saving on utility bills. Look for fans with the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. These fans use less power while providing effective ventilation. If you are environmentally conscious or want to save on energy costs, prioritize fans with higher energy efficiency ratings.
Installation TypeThe installation type of a bathroom exhaust fan can vary, including ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, and inline fans. Ceiling-mounted fans are the most common and are installed directly in the ceiling. Wall-mounted fans are suitable for bathrooms without ceiling access. Inline fans are installed in the ductwork and are ideal for larger bathrooms or when you want to minimize noise. Consider the layout of your bathroom and your installation capabilities when choosing the right type.
Additional FeaturesSome bathroom exhaust fans come with additional features such as built-in lights, heaters, or humidity sensors. Built-in lights can provide extra illumination, while heaters can add warmth during colder months. Humidity sensors automatically turn the fan on and off based on the moisture level, ensuring optimal air quality. Think about your specific needs and preferences to determine which additional features might be beneficial for you.

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