The bathroom ceiling exhaust fan helps remove moisture from the bathroom, reducing the buildup of mold and mildew. Over time, however, the exhaust fan wears out and quits working. Although replacing a bathroom ceiling exhaust fan is possible, the project takes some time. If it is going to be some time before you install a replacement, it is a good idea to block the bathroom ceiling exhaust fan opening. This helps block critters and insects from accessing your home through the unused opening. Blocking a bathroom ceiling exhaust fan requires you to disassemble the fan.
Instructions
1. Turn off the circuit breaker to your bathroom ceiling fan. Place a piece of electrical tape over the circuit breaker until you are ready to install a new ceiling fan. The tape helps prevent someone in the home from accidentally turning the circuit breaker back to the "On" position.
2. Pull down the ceiling fan cover with your fingers until the spring clips fully extend. Reach between the cover and the ceiling, and squeeze the spring clips together while pulling them from the fan housing. This releases the cover completely.
3. Unplug the small cord for the ceiling fan motor. Remove the screw next to the plug outlet with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Pry the side of the fan base plate out of the housing with your fingers. Once the side is clear of the opening, pull the entire fan base plate out of the housing.
4. Measure the opening for the fan housing with a tape measure. Transfer the measurement to the 1-inch rigid foam board. Cut the foam board with a utility knife.
5. Insert the foam board into the fan housing. The foam board blocks the air duct opening and acts as a fill in place of the fan base plate.
6. Position the ceiling fan cover over the opening, and insert the spring clips into the notches on the fan housing. Press the ceiling fan cover against the ceiling.
Tags: ceiling exhaust, foam board, base plate, bathroom ceiling, ceiling cover, circuit breaker