Fan and heat light all in one

A combined fan and heat light can be useful for small bathrooms and ensuites, where installing a separate fitting for each function can make the room look cluttered.

They can also be useful in older homes with solid brick walls, where running wiring down walls for separate systems can be problematic.

Running times

The units should be used only when you're in the bathroom. It's pointless to preheat the room, because the units generate radiant heat, which warms people and objects rather than air. Also, they use a lot of energy. The units generally use a 100 watt light globe and up to four 275 watt heat lamps.

Location, location

Your ceiling-mounted fan, heater, light should be installed centrally in the room so it can perform all three of its functions adequately. If you need two units, your bathroom is probably too big for this type of system. Energy consumption and aesthetics also weigh against having two units.

Flexible operation

Combined units usually have a switch for each function, so the exhaust fan, light and heat lamps can be used independently of each other or in tandem. The heat lamps and fan work well together, because the unit generates radiant heat, which isn't sucked out of the room by the fan.

Fan power

Experts recommend the units move at least 300 cubic metres of air per hour for adequate ventilation.

Smart buys

Seek advice from your electrician about the type of product you need and ensure your purchase has a good warranty. Five years is typical. 

To find out more about a combined fan and heat light, talk with a bathroom expert in your area today: