How to Automate Bathroom Fans with Humidity Sensors

1/18/2026
How to Automate Bathroom Fans with Humidity Sensors

How to Automate Bathroom Fans with Humidity Sensors

A bathroom fan is an essential tool for preventing mold and mildew. It works by venting moist air out of the bathroom, which helps to keep the humidity levels down. But it's easy to forget to turn on the bathroom fan every time you take a shower. And it's also easy to forget to turn it off. The good news is that you can automate your bathroom fan with a humidity sensor so you never have to think about it again.

What is a Humidity Sensor?

A humidity sensor is a device that measures the amount of moisture in the air. When the humidity level in your bathroom gets too high, the humidity sensor will automatically turn on the bathroom fan. And when the humidity level returns to normal, the sensor will automatically turn the fan off.

Why Automate Your Bathroom Fan?

How to Automate Your Bathroom Fan

There are a few different ways to automate your bathroom fan with a humidity sensor:

1. Install a Humidity Sensor Switch

The easiest way to automate your bathroom fan is to install a humidity sensor switch. A humidity sensor switch is a special type of light switch that has a built-in humidity sensor. It's a simple DIY project that you can do in just a few minutes.

Here's how to install a humidity sensor switch:

  1. Turn off the power: The first step is to turn off the power to the bathroom fan at the circuit breaker.
  2. Remove the old switch: Remove the old light switch from the wall.
  3. Install the new switch: Install the new humidity sensor switch according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Turn the power back on: Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker.
  5. Set the humidity level: Use the controls on the switch to set the desired humidity level.

2. Install a Smart Humidity Sensor

Another way to automate your bathroom fan is to use a smart humidity sensor. A smart humidity sensor is a standalone device that can be placed anywhere in your bathroom. It will then communicate with a smart switch or a smart plug to turn the bathroom fan on and off.

Top Picks for the Best Humidity Sensor Switches

The Bottom Line

Automating your bathroom fan with a humidity sensor is a simple and affordable way to prevent mold and mildew, save energy, and make your life a little easier. With a humidity sensor switch, you'll never have to worry about forgetting to turn on the bathroom fan again.