I have a second floor bathroom that has a ventilation fan which exits to the roof. Whenever I take a shower there is an incredible amount of freezing air (midwest winter) that is coming in through the bathroom fan (not running because the bathroom door is open). How can I prevent this? The simple solution would seem like just turning the fan on but there is still a really cold draft that whirls about the shower area (enclosed shower stall with open top).
asked Jan 13, 2016 at 21:20
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2 Answers
Your fan is equipped with a backflow prevention flap. Check that it's installed correctly and not gunked up with so much lint that it doesn't function.
It's usually a simple task to remove the cover, unplug the fan and light, and drop the motor panel. This usually doesn't require work on the wiring connections. From there you have open access to the flap.
answered Jan 13, 2016 at 21:26
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I didn't know there was already something existing to prevent this. It must not be working so thanks for the advice. Commented Jan 13, 2016 at 21:29
You want a gravity flap or back-draught/draft flap if it's a horizontal duct.
For a vertical flue you'll probably need a right-angle bend, rotating downwind type, and a draft flap. (Letting it swing downwind might be enough on its own.)
