Bathroom exhaust fans are small but mighty systems that don’t get much attention—but we think they should. During inspections, we often find fans that aren’t working properly, and when this happens, it’s important that repairs are scheduled quickly. Here’s what bathroom exhaust fans are designed to do and why they are crucial to the health of your home.

What Do Bathroom Exhaust Fans Do?
Every time you shower or bathe, you introduce hot, humid air into the room. Bathroom exhaust fans help remove moisture, odors, and impurities by venting them out and away from the home, preventing condensation buildup.

1. Fans That Vent Into the Attic
When warm, moist air is vented directly into the attic, you risk issues like mold growth, wood rot, and damage to insulation. Believe it or not, we see this all the time! Exhaust fans should always be vented outdoors.

2. Fans That Don’t Move Enough Air
Many fans are too small for the space they’re installed in. We also encounter fans that haven’t been properly maintained and may have clogged ducts or filters. Replacements typically run $300–$500.

3. Damaged Ductwork
Loose, separated, crushed, or kinked ducts can restrict airflow. If you’re new to DIY, consider calling a duct specialist for repairs. 

4. Unused Fans
Using your exhaust fan every time humid air is generated in your bathroom is essential. Run fans during baths or showers, plus an additional 15–20 minutes afterward for peak effectiveness.

Bottom line: Bathroom exhaust fans are a small system with a big job. Clean fans regularly, listen for changes in sound or performance, and when in doubt, call an expert.

Our inspectors are always finding interesting maintenance issues in the field. What’s going on in this picture?

Pictured here is an outlet box where the electrical cable has not been properly secured with a connector. Without a connector, the cable can rub against the edge of the box, which may damage the insulation over time and create a safety hazard. It also means the cable isn’t firmly held in place, so movement could loosen the wiring connections inside the outlet. A proper cable clamp or connector should be installed to protect and secure the wiring. The outlet cover is a nice gesture, but it won’t keep anyone safe from this needed repair! 

While deferred maintenance tasks are never ideal when it comes to keeping your home in great working order, some items carry greater risk than others. Here are five “little” issues that can lead to much more expensive repairs if left unaddressed. (Spoiler: it’s all about managing potential water intrusion!)

1. Damaged Exterior Caulking
Small gaps around windows, doors, and siding are easy to ignore, but they can allow water to seep behind surfaces, leading to rot, mold, and costly repairs.

2. Loose or Improperly Installed Gutters
Even minor gutter misalignment can prevent proper drainage. This causes water to pool near the foundation instead of directing it away from the home and can create long-term moisture issues. 

3. Missing Shingles
Even a single missing or damaged shingle can expose your roof to water intrusion, turning a minor repair into leaks, insulation damage, and other problems.

4. Slow Plumbing Leaks
A small drip under the sink may seem harmless, but constant moisture can gradually damage surrounding materials until full replacement is needed.

5. A Dirty Dryer Vent
Lint buildup is a small issue with potentially huge consequences. It can trap heat and moisture, reducing dryer efficiency and, in worst-case scenarios, creating a serious fire hazard. 

The difference between a simple fix and a major repair often comes down to timing. Addressing small issues early can save time, money, and stress while helping your home function the way it should.