Ceiling fan heaters provide quick, targeted warmth and ventilation for bathrooms, kitchens, and small rooms. Below is a concise comparison of five well-reviewed ceiling-mounted fan heaters selected for performance, noise, airflow control, and installation flexibility.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Broan-NuTone BHFLED80 | Fan + Heater + LED Light | 80 CFM, dimmable LED, 1.5 sones |
| Broan-NuTone 157 | Fan-Forced Ceiling Heater | 1250W, low profile, enclosed sheath element |
| Broan-NuTone 164 | Bulb Heater + Fan | Two 250W infrared bulbs, 70 CFM |
| Panasonic FV-0511VH1 | WhisperWarm Fan + Heater | 1600W PTC heater, Pick-A-Flow 50/80/110 CFM |
| Delta Breez Radiance | Fan + Light + Heater | 1300W heater, quiet 1.5 sones, brushless DC motor |
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Broan-NuTone BHFLED80 PowerHeat Combo
This model combines an exhaust fan, heater, and LED light in one unit. It delivers 80 CFM and a low acoustic level at 1.5 sones, allowing ventilation and warmth without loud operation. The heater and fan function independently or together for flexible use.
Lighting is an integrated dimmable LED with CCT color control, offering Warm White (2700K), Bright White (3500K), and Daylight (5000K). The grille presents a modern white finish suitable for most decor.
Consider this unit if you need combined ventilation and spot heating with light and prefer selectable lighting temperatures. Installation requires ceiling electrical access and appropriate wiring for separate functions.
Broan-NuTone 157 Low-Profile Heater
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The Broan-NuTone 157 is a ceiling-mounted fan-forced heater designed as a low-profile supplement to home heating. It operates at 1250W and 120VAC, producing rapid heating while maintaining a compact ceiling presence.
Key construction elements include an enclosed metal sheath element for reliable operation and a durable satin aluminum grille. The design focuses on durability and unobtrusive installation for bathrooms or kitchens.
This unit is suited for homeowners seeking a simple forced-air ceiling heater without integrated lighting. It requires in-ceiling mounting space and standard electrical hookups; compatibility with existing finishing should be verified prior to installation.
Broan-NuTone 164 Bulb Heater And Fan
The Broan-NuTone 164 uses two 250W infrared bulbs (R40/BR40) to provide instant radiant warmth and includes a ventilation fan rated at 70 CFM with about 4.0 sones. Bulb-type heating offers rapid perceived warmth for occupants.
As an infrared bulb heater, the unit is energy-efficient for short-duration heat needs and keeps central thermostats unchanged. The fan provides ventilation while the bulbs deliver directional heat.
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Note that bulbs are not included and will need replacement over time. The higher sones rating indicates louder operation compared with modern low-sones units, which may be a factor for noise-sensitive areas.
Panasonic WhisperWarm FV-0511VH1
Panasonic’s WhisperWarm model features a 1600W PTC heater combined with a quiet DC/ECM motor and Pick-A-Flow airflow selection offering 50, 80, or 110 CFM. This flexibility adjusts ventilation to room size and usage.
Designed for low noise and energy efficiency, the unit simplifies installation with a Flex-Z Fast Bracket so attic access is not always necessary. It supports both 4″ and 6″ ducting and is built for long-term use.
This model targets users who prioritize high heating capacity, variable airflow, and whisper-quiet operation. The PTC heater provides safe, consistent output and avoids bulb replacements typical of infrared units.
Delta Breez Radiance Exhaust Fan Heater
The Delta Breez Radiance integrates an 80 CFM exhaust fan, LED light, thermostat, and a 1300W heating element. It uses a brushless DC motor rated for long-life service and high efficiency at 7 CFM/watt.
Performance highlights include quiet operation at approximately 1.5 sones and a thermal cutoff fuse on the heater for safety. The unit is positioned for energy savings and extended motor life.
This combination product suits users who want efficient motor technology, integrated light, and basic thermostat control without high acoustic impact. Ensure electrical compatibility and ventilation ducting match your installation.
Buying Guide: Choosing A Ceiling Fan Heater
Selecting a ceiling fan heater requires assessing room size, installation constraints, noise tolerance, and desired combined features. Below are key considerations to compare units objectively.
Heating Type And Power
- PTC Heater vs. Bulb Infrared: PTC elements (e.g., Panasonic) provide steady output without bulb replacements. Infrared bulb heaters (e.g., Broan 164) offer rapid radiant warmth but require bulb maintenance.
- Wattage Matters: Higher wattage units (1300W–1600W) deliver more heat quickly; lower-wattage units are more modest but may be adequate for small bathrooms.
Airflow (CFM) And Noise (Sones)
- CFM: Indicates ventilation capacity. Choose higher CFM for larger bathrooms or when replacing a whole-room fan.
- Sones: Lower sones equal quieter operation. Values around 1–1.5 sones are considered quiet; models with 4.0 sones are noticeably louder.
Integrated Features
- Light Integration: Units with LEDs (Broan BHFLED80, Panasonic VHL1) reduce separate fixtures and offer dimming or color temperature control.
- Thermostat/Controls: Built-in thermostat or separate switches allow more precise heating cycles and energy savings.
Installation And Ducting
- Mounting Space: Verify ceiling cavity depth and joist spacing. Low-profile units fit limited clearance.
- Duct Size: Check whether the unit supports 4″ or 6″ ducting. Flexible installation brackets simplify positioning.
- Electrical Requirements: Ensure your electrical circuit and wiring match the unit’s voltage and separate switch needs for light/fan/heater functions.
Durability, Safety, And Maintenance
- Element Type: Enclosed sheath elements resist moisture and debris better than exposed elements.
- Overheat Protection: Thermal cutoff fuses and automatic shutoffs provide important safety layers.
- Serviceability: Consider whether bulbs or filters are user-replaceable and how often routine maintenance is needed.
Energy Efficiency And Long-Term Costs
- Motor Efficiency: Brushless DC or ECM motors consume less power and often last longer than standard AC motors.
- Targeted Heating: Ceiling heaters can reduce central heating loads by providing spot warmth where needed.
Comparison Perspectives
- Best For Quiet Operation: Models using DC/ECM motors with low sones ratings (e.g., Panasonic, Delta Breez).
- Best For Maximum Heat: Higher-watt units like the Panasonic 1600W PTC heater produce more consistent warmth.
- Best For Integrated Lighting: Units with dimmable LED panels or multiple CCT options (e.g., Broan BHFLED80, Panasonic VHL1).
- Best For Simple Supplementary Heat: Low-profile forced-air heaters (Broan 157) provide basic, reliable heating without lighting features.
When choosing, match the unit’s CFM, wattage, noise level, and installation requirements to your bathroom size and user priorities. Verify electrical compatibility and ducting options before purchase to ensure a smooth installation.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.