What is a Window Exhaust Fan?
Cooking is a fun and rewarding pursuit, but without the right equipment, it can cause more problems than it is worth. If you don’t have proper ventilation in your kitchen, chances are, you will experience some problems.
When you cook, emissions are released as you cook. Particles of food matter and the outgassing of certain chemicals can get into the air and reduce the air quality of your home.
With a kitchen exhaust fan, smells and particulates are removed from the air while you cook, helping to improve air quality and reduce the likelihood of pervasive unpleasant odors.
There are studies that show that without a proper kitchen exhaust fan, our indoor air quality may actually be worse than what it is outside! It isn’t hard to see why this is a problem that we should seek to address.
The solution doesn’t require extensive home renovation to address. If you don’t have proper kitchen ventilation, experts recommend window exhaust fans as a great way to keep moisture and impurities out of the air while you cook.
Kitchen exhaust fans are affordable and easy to install and don’t require that you tear your house apart to address the issue. They are ventilation fans that are designed to fit in a standard window and will draw air and particulates out of the window and out of your home.
There are tons of different options for the best window exhaust fans for the kitchen and what will work best for you will depend on your budget, the size of your kitchen, and your personal preferences.
Our 9 Top Picks for Best Window Exhaust Fans for Kitchen
We all want to have the healthiest and safest indoor air quality possible and without proper ventilation, we aren’t going to achieve this. This is why it is so important that you address your ventilation problems as soon as possible.
Since this is a medium-sized appliance, it comes with a higher price tag than a regular fan and so you want to make sure that you choose an option that will work for you and your needs. We have reviewed countless window exhaust fans for kitchens to find the best options across a range of price points and sizes.
Any of the options we review here makes a great choice for helping to improve your indoor air quality. We have tried to cover a range of sizes, added features, and price points, so we review something that will work for people of varying needs.
1. VES 24″ Exhaust Shutter Fan
VES Environmental Solutions is a trusted and reputable maker of a wide range of products that are designed to improve ventilation and air quality in both residential and home contexts. Their product line ranges from garage ceiling fans to window exhaust fans well suited for use in home kitchens.
Their 24″ exhaust shutter fan is made from professional-quality aluminum and is made with cutting-edge construction techniques to create a solid, durable fan that will stand the test of time. The fan can easily be installed in either a window or a hole in the wall.
The fan not only helps to remove odors, particulates, and moisture, it can also provide powerful cooling benefits as well. It is rustproof and corrosion-resistant for added strength and durability.
The fan comes fully assembled and features a three-wing balanced blade design for maximum airflow. It is powered by 120V so it is strong enough to remove even the peskiest of odors. The fan comes with a 2-year warranty on the motor and a 1-year limited warranty on any other parts.
Key Features:
- professional-quality aluminum construction
- three wing balanced aluminum blades
- 120V
- fully assembled
- 2-year motor warranty and 1-year limited warranty on all other parts
Specifications:
Brand: VES Environmental Solutions
Model: SF24C2
Weight: 32 pounds
2. iPower 12-Inch Aluminum Exhaust Fan
iPower is a trusted and well-known manufacturer of a variety of ventilation and garden-related products. They are known for making high-quality products that are well-designed and constructed from the highest quality materials. Their product line ranges from seed starting tools to grow tents to window exhaust fans.
Their 12-inch exhaust fan is a great value and a wonderful choice for those who have a small kitchen space they want properly ventilated without breaking the budget in the process. The fan comes fully assembled and can easily fit in a standard-sized window.
It is made from high-quality aluminum for long-lasting quality. The fan features a thermostat, which allows you to have control over the power and level of ventilation needed at a given time.
The fan also features aluminum blades that are rust- and corrosion-resistant, so you have peace of mind that this fan will stand the test of time. The fan works off regular 120V electricity and has enough air pulling power. The fan is lightweight and compact in design, but still powerful enough to handle the strongest kitchen odors.
Key Features:
- professional-quality aluminum construction
- fully assembled
- 12-inches perfect for small spaces
- rust- and corrosion-resistant blades
- lightweight
- compact design
Specifications:
Brand: iPower
Model: HIFANXVENTIL12
Weight: 5.28 pounds
3. Holmes Group Bionaire Thin Window Fan with Comfort Control Thermostat
Holmes is a well-known and highly reputable maker of a wide range of air moving and purification products. Their brand is a great combination of value and quality. They create innovative, useful products that stand the test of time but don’t cost an arm and a leg. They make a wide range of products from air purification systems to window exhaust fans for kitchens.
Their Bionaire Thin Window Fan is a great choice for those looking for a powerful fan at a great value. It is well-suited for use in small- to medium-sized kitchens. The fan features touch button control which allows you to select from 3 different comfort and speed settings. The fan also features a digital LED control panel for easy viewing.
This is a perfect fan for double-hung windows and is extendable to better fit the length of your window. The fan can be installed vertically or horizontally and comes fully assembled. The fan also comes with a firm fit locking extender screen for a tight, solid fit.
This fan also comes with a 5-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.
Key Features:
- can be installed horizontally or vertically
- 3 speed and comfort settings
- digital LED panel
- touch button operation
- fully assembled
- fit locking extender included
- 5-year limited warranty
Specifications:
Brand: Holmes
Model: BWF0522E-BU
Weight: 6.4 pounds
4. SAILFLO Exhaust Shutter Fan 8 Inch 300 CFM
Sailfo is an up-and-coming brand that is known for making affordable, quality products that make home life a little easier and more convenient. They are known for making high-quality products that are durable, useful, and innovative in design.
Their 8-inch window exhaust fan is a great choice for those looking to properly ventilate small kitchen spaces with ease and without breaking the budget. The fan is a two-way ventilation system that features a durable motor that is made to stand the test of time.
The fan is efficient and durable and features an overheat protector for added safety and peace of mind. The fan comes fully assembled and is easy to install in any standard-sized window. The fan is also compact in design and easy to clean.
Key Features:
- compact, lightweight design
- 110V
- two-way ventilation system
- overheat protector
- quiet operation
- easy to clean
Specifications:
Brand: Fenyan
Weight: 4.18 pounds
5. Tornado 12-Inch Heavy Duty Shutter Exhaust Fan
Tornado Fans is a reputable and trusted maker of a wide range of fans for different purposes. They make high-quality products that are a great combination of value and quality. Their products feature cutting-edge technology and the best possible construction. Their product line ranges from traditional home fans to standing fans to window exhaust fans.
Their 12-inch industrial-strength exhaust fan is UL safety listed and made from professional-grade aluminum and alloy steel. The fan features a safety grill and a fully-enclosed motor for added safety.
The fan also features shutters that close tightly when the fan is not in use to prevent drafts and wasted heat or cooling loss. The shutters open automatically when the fan is turned on. The fan is made from rust-resistant and corrosion-resistant galvanized steel for long-lasting durability.
The fan comes largely assembled and is easily installed in most standard-sized windows. This fan may require a bit of wiring to fully integrate into the home power supply. The fan comes with a 5-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.
Key Features:
- industrial-quality exhaust fan
- automatic shutters to reduce draft
- galvanized steel and aluminum construction
- easy assembly
- UL safety listed
- 5-year limited warranty
Specifications:
Brand: Tornado Fans
Model: HI-FAN-SEF12-1PK
Weight: 14.87 pounds
6. iPower 12-Inch Variable Shutter Exhaust Fan with Speed Controller
We have already looked at one iPower model of exhaust fan but they have so many different, quality options, that we can’t help but review another. Their 12-inch variable shutter exhaust fan is a great choice for those who are looking to ventilate a larger living space and want something that features cutting-edge technology and design elements.
The fan is compatible with 120V electricity and is definitely strong enough to handle the ventilation needs of a large kitchen space. The fan also comes with a fan speed controller that allows you to easily adjust the speed of the fan to meet the needs of the job in question. To choose the right speed for your needs, simply move the dial to the preferred choice.
The fan will easily fit into most standard-sized windows and comes with everything you need to install it. The fan comes with a power cord kit, relief clamp wire connectors, and an easy to understand set of instructions for assembly.
The fan features automatic gravity shutters so the fan is tightly closed and resistant to drafts when not in use. The fan also features large blades and a safety grille for added protection and security.
Key Features:
- 12-inch size perfect for large kitchen spaces
- gravity shutters
- safety grille
- adjustable speed settings
- comes with a power cord kit
- fits standard windows
Specifications:
Brand: iPower
Model: HIFANEXHAUST12CTB
Weight: 8.5 pounds
7. HealSmart 12-Inch Shutter Exhaust Fan
HealSmart is a reputable and trusted maker of a wide range of home and health-related products. The brand is known for making high-quality and high-end solutions for a wide range of needs. Their product line ranges from non-contact thermometers to traditional oscillating fans to window exhaust fans for the kitchen.
Their 12-inch shutter exhaust fan is a great value and a high-quality solution for kitchens large and small. The fan is made from professional-grade aluminum and is constructed to the highest safety and quality standards.
The fan is easy to install and fits in standard-sized windows. The industrial-strength fan is strong enough to remove even the strongest odors from your kitchen. The fan features corrosion- and rust-proof aluminum shutters that close when not in use to prevent drafts.
The fan comes fully assembled and features high-quality aluminum blades that are durable, resistant to the elements, and made to stand the test of time.
Key Features:
- professional-quality aluminum construction
- easy to install
- 115V
- automatic shutters
- comes fully assembled
- durable, high-quality aluminum blades
Specifications:
Brand: HealSmart
Model: HIFANEXHAUST12B
Weight: 8.66 pounds
8. Sailflo 10-Inch Two Way Exhaust Shutter Fan
Sailflo is a trusted and reputable maker of a wide range of appliances and outdoor equipment. They are known for making well-made, quality constructions that meet the needs of users of all walks of life. Their product line ranges from water pumps for boats to window exhaust fans for kitchens.
Their 10-inch window exhaust fan is a great choice for people with small- to medium-sized kitchens. The fan is stable and well-made from professional-quality plastic.
The fan features two-way ventilation meaning it can draw odors and impurities out of the home and also draw cool, fresh air into the home. The fan features a high-quality, heavy-duty, wear-resistant motor that is guaranteed for at least 9,000 hours of quiet, solid operation.
The fan also features overheat protection that helps to ensure added safety and security. The fan comes fully assembled and is incredibly easy to install. The fan comes with everything you need for proper installation, including a UL certified power cord kit. The fan also features a detachable panel that makes for easy cleaning.
Key Features:
- compact, space-saving design
- made from professional-grade plastic
- two-way ventilation
- wear-resistant motor
- overheat protection
- fully assembled
- comes with a UL certified power cord kit
- detachable panel for easy cleaning
Specifications:
Brand: Sailflo
Weight: 5.19 pounds
9. AC Infinity AirTitan 12-Inch Ventilation Fan
AC Infinity is a trusted and well-known maker of high-end fans that meet a wide range of needs. Their brand is known for using cutting-edge technology coupled with the highest-quality construction. Their product line ranges from inline duct fans to rack-mount fans to window exhaust fans for kitchens.
Their 12-inch AirTitan exhaust fan is a great choice for someone looking for a powerful, top-of-the-line choice exhaust fan. It features a high airflow design that helps to reduce moisture and remove odors and impurities from the air.
The fan features a programmable controller with adjustable airflow options as well. The fan is well-constructed with heavy-duty anodized aluminum steel to ensure added strength and longevity.
The fan can easily be installed in standard-sized windows and even on the wall. The fan features a timer and alarming warnings for added security.
The fan comes fully assembled and with everything you need to properly mount or install it with ease.
Key Features:
- quiet operation
- high airflow design
- programmable controller
- heavy-duty anodized aluminum steel
- timer
- fully assembled
Specifications:
Brand: AC Infinity
Model: AC-ATT7
Weight: 3.78 pounds
Window Exhaust Fan Buying Guide
Just like with any appliance purchase, you want to make sure you know what you are looking for and what you need when shopping for a window exhaust fan for your kitchen. These fans come in different sizes and shapes and can be made from different materials.
Whatever you choose, you want to make sure you choose a powerful fan that is strong enough to remove odors, particulates, and moisture from the air. The biggest factors you will want to consider when deciding which exhaust fan is best for you will be size, price, and material.
Size
Like most types of fans, window exhaust fans for kitchens come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If you have a smaller kitchen, you can get away with a smaller model, whereas the larger your kitchen, the larger and more powerful you will need the exhaust fan to be.
Price
Similar to most home appliances, window exhaust fans come with a range of price tags. Some have additional features like displays and app integration, which will add to the price of the exhaust fan. Before making your ultimate selection, you will want to consider which features are most important for your needs.
Material
The highest quality window exhaust fans are made from stainless steel or another high-quality metal that is scratch-resistant and easy to clean. While metal is the most durable and eye-catching, there are also high-quality exhaust fans made from professional-quality plastic that are also suitable.
Window Exhaust Fan FAQ
What is a window exhaust fan?
A window exhaust fan is a powerful window that removes moisture, odors, and particulate matter from the air of your home. They are easy to install and don’t require tools.
Do I need a window exhaust fan?
If your kitchen lacks proper ventilation and you are concerned about your indoor air quality, a window exhaust fan for your kitchen is a great idea. While opening a window can help, it doesn’t draw air out like a fan will and thus won’t rid your home of odors and potentially harmful substances like an exhaust fan will.
What benefits will I get from having a window exhaust fan?
As we noted earlier in this piece, people who cook in kitchens without window exhaust fans may be breathing air that is just as polluted as outdoor air. We all want a safe and healthy home, but without proper ventilation, our homes won’t be as safe as they can be. With a window exhaust fan, you remove unpleasant odors from the air, particulates that can be harmful will be removed, and you also remove excess moisture from the air as well.
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