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?
- Prevents mold and mildew: A bathroom fan is one of the most effective ways to prevent mold and mildew. By automating your bathroom fan, you can ensure that it's always running when it needs to be.
- Saves energy: An automated bathroom fan will only run when it's needed, which can help to save energy.
- Convenience: You'll never have to remember to turn the bathroom fan on or off again.
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:
- Turn off the power: The first step is to turn off the power to the bathroom fan at the circuit breaker.
- Remove the old switch: Remove the old light switch from the wall.
- Install the new switch: Install the new humidity sensor switch according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Turn the power back on: Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker.
- 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
- Leviton SensaTech Humidity Sensor Switch: The Leviton SensaTech is a popular choice for a reason. It's easy to install and it has a number of great features, including a built-in timer and an adjustable humidity level.
- Lutron Maestro Humidity Sensor Switch: The Lutron Maestro is another great option. It has a sleek and modern design, and it's also very easy to install.
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.
