Individual Exhaust Fan Serving Entire Dwelling

Select a fan that:

uses an ECM motor designed for continuous operation

produces no more than 1.0 sones at maximum speed

has an efficacy of 2.8 cfm/watt or more

Select sealants that:

are compatible with their intended surfaces,

allow for differential expansion and contraction between dissimilar materials,

meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g., thermal or ignition barriers), and

for use inside the pressure boundary select low volatile organic compound (VOC) sealants that meet independent testing and verification protocols

Terminate exhaust system to the outdoors, which does not include unconditioned spaces such as attics and crawl spaces that are ventilated with the outdoors

Install terminations: A minimum of 3' away from any property line; A minimum of 3' away from operable opening to houses; A minimum of 10' away from mechanical intake; Above the snow-line

If the termination is at the soffit, seal soffit vents within 6' of the termination

Install corrosion resistant screen, louver, or grille material over exterior termination with a hole size of no less than 1/4" and no greater than 1/2" in any direction

If the fan does not contain an integrated damper, install a damper that:

opens in the direction of the desired flow

closes when the system is off

Install exhaust intake in a central location within the main body of the dwelling

Cut hole for exhaust intake leaving no more than a 1/4" gap on each side of the fan assembly

Orient the fan outlet toward the final termination location and so the effective length of the duct run is as short as possible

Mount fan using mechanical fasteners and per manufacturer's specifications so that fan housing does not shake, rattle, or vibrate when operating

Install all electrical wiring according to manufacturer specifications and applicable code

Seal gap between the fan housing and interior surface

Seal fan housing to be substantially airtight

Insulate fan housing located outside the thermal boundary to a minimum of R-8 or cover with insulation of more than R-8

Ensure fan and service disconnect switch are accessible for maintenance according to NEC, or applicable building code

Duct and terminate fan to the outdoors, which does not include unconditioned spaces such as attics and crawl spaces that are ventilated with the outdoors, in accordance with SWS detail for "Ventilation Ducts"

Adjust fan speed, dampers, and registers until design specifications are met