answersLogoWhite

0

Bathroom ceiling vent fans carry no warnings about continuous use. A fan in good condition, used in a good environment, will not heat excessively. However, a defective, older, or worn fan, or a fan that is binding or prevented from turning, or operated where airflow is blocked, can overheat, possibly dangerously. If a fan is making any kind of grinding or squealing noise, it should not be operated. A fan that does not turn freely should not be turned on. Such defective fans should be replaced, and it is good practice to replace any older ceiling fan (over six years) as a matter of course. They operate in harsh conditions, often ventilating moist or dirty, smoky air. A good quality, new fan will likely be quieter and more efficient, and it won't have the wear problems that can cause overheating. Potentially it is a fire hazard. Many vent fans use an open frame motor that depends upon air flow past it for cooling, and some vent fans are enclosed in plastic housings.

Over time, dust and lint can collect on this open frame motor, insulating it from the air flow and causing it to heat up. Eventually, if it gets hot enough, it can fail electrically and blow a spark. This spark can ignite the dust and lint, and if the housing is plastic the housing can ignite as well. This becomes a serious problem.

More here, about an actual case where this happened:

http://www.softwareforlandlords.com/maint1.php

User Avatar

Wiki User

17y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

bathroom ventilation fans and fire hazards?

Bathroom ventilation fans are indeed a fire hazard. They are generally unsafe if you leave them on for way too long.


Paint a bathroom ceiling brown like the walls?

If that's what you like. You may want to consider a paint with at least a semi-gloss sheen so that the condensation doesn't leave stains when it dries.


Should ceiling fans be used when you're not in the room?

Unless you have something in place that could be damaged by the fan blades, or simply want to conserve energy, as long as it has been installed securely, it's generally safe to leave a room with the ceiling fan still running.


Is it safe to leave the oven on when not home?

It is not safe to leave the oven on when you are not home, as it can pose a fire hazard.


Can female dogs leave there puppies alone to go to the bathroom?

Yes, she will leave her pups for a quick bathroom break. A good mother will never soil the area her pups are in.


Did man leave home running?

There are many different men that leave their home running. This is because running is a very popular athletic activity.


Can you wear an Allah bracelet to the bathroom?

Assalamualaikum, YOU SHOULDNT WEAR AN ISLAMIC BRACELET TO THE BATHROOM BECAUSE THE BATHROOM ISNT CLEAN U SHOULD LEAVE IT ON THE FLOOR EITHER


Is it safe to leave the oven on overnight?

No, it is not safe to leave the oven on overnight as it can pose a fire hazard and increase the risk of accidents.


Is it safe to leave the stove on overnight?

No, it is not safe to leave the stove on overnight as it poses a fire hazard and increases the risk of accidents.


Could you please remind me to flush the toilet before leaving the bathroom?

Don't forget to flush the toilet before you leave the bathroom.


Should you leave the oven open after use?

No, you should not leave the oven open after use. It can be a safety hazard and can also waste energy.


What is a good excuse to request leave?

* Kids at home, washing in dryer * bathroom