Clean Bathroom Exhaust Fan

Bathroom exhaust fans pull moisture out of your bathroom — but a clogged fan can't move enough air, leading to mold on ceilings, mirror fogging that never clears, and a motor that overheats and fails. Clean once a year. Turn off the breaker or switch. Pull the plastic cover straight down — most covers unclip or have spring-loaded brackets. Wash the cover in warm soapy water and let it dry completely. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the fan blade and motor housing — most of the lint buildup is on the fan blade and inside the housing. For stubborn buildup, use compressed air (wear a mask — the dust is significant). Check that the duct leading to the outside is not kinked or disconnected — a disconnected duct exhausts moisture into the attic, causing mold. Replace the cover. Turn the breaker back on and hold a small piece of toilet paper near the cover — it should be pulled firmly toward the fan when running. If suction is weak after cleaning, the fan motor may be failing and the unit should be replaced (a new basic fan is $25–$50 and an easy DIY).