How To Replace Nutone Bathroom Fan With Light

How to Replace a Nutone Bathroom Fan With Light

Replacing a Nutone bathroom fan with light is a common home improvement project that can enhance your bathroom's ventilation and lighting. Nutone is a reputable brand known for its reliable and efficient bathroom fans. While replacing a fan may seem daunting, with the right tools and knowledge, it's a manageable DIY task. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you replace your old Nutone bathroom fan with a new one, ensuring a smooth and successful installation.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Supplies

Before starting the replacement process, it's essential to gather the necessary tools and supplies. This will ensure you have everything you need at your disposal and avoid unnecessary delays. Here's a list of essential items:

New Nutone bathroom fan with light
Screwdriver (Phillips head and flathead)
Wire strippers
Wire connectors (wire nuts)
Voltage tester
Ladder
Safety goggles
Work gloves
Optional: Stud finder for locating joists

Step 2: Disconnect Power to the Fan

Safety is paramount when working with electrical appliances. Before dismantling the old fan, it's crucial to disconnect the power supply. Locate the circuit breaker controlling the bathroom fan and turn it off. To confirm the power is off, use a voltage tester to check if the wires leading to the fan are live.

Step 3: Remove the Old Fan

With the power disconnected, you can now safely remove the old Nutone bathroom fan. Start by detaching the fan cover. Most covers are held in place by clips or screws. Once the cover is removed, access the fan motor and housing. Depending on the model, the fan motor may be attached to the ceiling with screws or brackets. Carefully detach the motor and housing by removing the fasteners.

Step 4: Remove the Wiring

Before completely removing the old fan, you need to disconnect the wiring. Carefully identify the wires connected to the fan motor and light fixture. Note the color of each wire (typically black, white, and green) as it will help you connect them to the new fan later. Use wire strippers to expose about half an inch of wire at the ends. Disconnect the wires from the old fan by gently pulling them apart.

Step 5: Install the New Fan

With the old fan removed, it's time to install the new Nutone bathroom fan. Start by attaching the new fan housing to the ceiling using appropriate screws or brackets. Make sure the housing is securely fastened to the ceiling joists for stability. Next, connect the wires from the new fan to the existing wiring. Match the wire colors (black to black, white to white, and green to green). Secure the connections with wire connectors (wire nuts) and ensure they are properly tightened.

Step 6: Connect the Light Fixture

If your new Nutone bathroom fan includes a light fixture, you'll need to connect it to the wiring as well. Connect the wires from the light fixture to the corresponding wires in the ceiling. Typically, the light fixture will have a separate set of wires for power and ground. Make sure the connections are secure and properly insulated.

Step 7: Test the Fan and Light

Once the wiring is complete, it's crucial to test the new fan and light fixture before reinstalling the cover. Turn the circuit breaker back on. Check if the fan is running correctly and if the light fixture is working. If there are any issues, double-check your connections and ensure all wires are properly secured.

Step 8: Reinstall the Cover

If everything is functioning correctly, reattach the cover to the new fan. Ensure it fits snugly and securely. Most covers snap into place or are secured with screws.