Can you imagine going to a bathroom without an exhaust fan? So gross! Not only does an exhaust fan keep your bathroom well-ventilated and smelling fresh, but it also makes short work of moisture build-up that can cause the growth of yucky mold.
Although most modern exhaust fans have self-lubricating mechanisms, older fans need to be oiled from time to time. This facilitates the fan’s movement and reduces the squeaky noise that it produces due to friction.
So here’s our guide on how to oil a bathroom exhaust fan to keep it brand spanking new.
Table of Contents
How to Oil a Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Here’s your step-by-step guide on lubricating your exhaust fan efficiently. I promise it’ll be a breeze once you know how it’s done!
Step 1: Turn off the exhaust fan circuit
This will ensure you’re safe, and it can help you avoid getting into a hairy situation.
Step 2: Clean the vent
Start cleaning the area around the exhaust fan. Getting rid of the dirt, dust, and debris helps to ensure that your fan doesn’t pull that grossness onto itself. Use a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth to complete the cleaning process.
Step 3: Remove the fan
There’s no point in lubricating a fan that’s dirty, so you must start by cleaning it. You might find that the fan is attached to its motor by way of brackets or screws. When taking these apart, remember to note where each component was so you could put everything back properly.
Step 4: Clean the fan blades
Using the same cleaning solution as before, wipe down the fan’s blades. If needed, do this repeatedly. The goal is to get the blades as clean as possible to allow the lubricant to do its job correctly. You may also choose to clean the motor of the fan.
Step 5: Lubricate
Once you’re done cleaning, it’s finally time to lubricate your bathroom’s exhaust fan. You must apply the lubricant on the shaft of the fan—just a few drops will do. You can use WD-40 (which will deal with residual debris/dust/grease) or any silicone spray.
Step 6: Manually spin the fan blades
This gives the lubricant a chance to settle in properly and allows you to check that the blades are moving smoothly. If you find that the movement is choppy, then you’ll have to apply more lubricant. But if you notice any grease dripping down the motor, make sure to clean that up too.
Step 7: Replace all components
Put everything back the way you found it. Pay special attention to the wiring and ensure that the shaft is correctly aligned with the fan. Once you’re done, power up the motor and activate the circuits. Then you’re good to go!
Final Words
Knowing how to oil a bathroom exhaust fan is critical if you want it to have a long life and to stop making noises as it spins. The whole process shouldn’t take you more than 20-30 minutes, so stop being lazy and get to it!