CFM Calculation Formula:
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CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) measures how much air a bathroom exhaust fan can move. Proper CFM calculation ensures adequate ventilation to remove moisture and odors, preventing mold and maintaining air quality.
The calculator uses the CFM calculation formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the CFM needed to completely change the air in the bathroom 8 times per hour, which is the standard recommendation for bathrooms.
Details: Proper CFM ensures effective ventilation, prevents moisture buildup, reduces mold growth, and maintains good indoor air quality. Undersized fans won't ventilate properly, while oversized fans may create negative pressure.
Tips: Measure your bathroom's length, width, and height in feet, then multiply them together to get the volume. Enter this value in cubic feet. The calculator will determine the minimum CFM needed for proper ventilation.
Q1: What is ACH (Air Changes per Hour)?
A: ACH measures how many times the air in a room is completely replaced in one hour. Bathrooms typically require 8 ACH.
Q2: Can I use a higher CFM fan than calculated?
A: Yes, but excessively high CFM may create drafts and waste energy. Stay within 20% of the calculated value.
Q3: What if my bathroom has a shower?
A: Showers generate more moisture. Consider adding 50 CFM to the calculated value for shower bathrooms.
Q4: How do I measure my bathroom volume?
A: Multiply length × width × height in feet. For irregular shapes, calculate each section separately and sum them.
Q5: What about bathroom windows?
A: While windows help, they're not a substitute for mechanical ventilation, especially in humid climates.