Best Bathroom Ceiling Heaters and Exhaust Fans

Choosing a ceiling-mounted bathroom heater with integrated ventilation and lighting improves comfort and reduces moisture damage. Below is a quick comparison of selected ceiling bathroom heaters available on Amazon, followed by in-depth product breakdowns and a buying guide to help match features to your bathroom needs.

Product Type Key Features CFM / Wattage
Broan-NuTone BHFLED80 Fan + Heater + LED Light Combo Dimmable LED, 3 CCT settings, independent controls 80 CFM / integrated heater
Broan-NuTone 157 Low-Profile Fan-Forced Ceiling Heater Enclosed metal sheath element, low-profile design 1250W
Femotic 157 Compatible Ceiling Heater (Compatible Model) PTC ceramic heating, overheat protection, low noise 1250W
Broan-NuTone 164 Bulb Heater & Fan Infrared bulb heating, fan ventilation 2×250W bulbs / 70 CFM
Panasonic WhisperWarm FV-0511VH1 Vent Fan With PTC Heater Pick-A-Flow 50/80/110 CFM, 1600W PTC heater, Flex-Z bracket 50–110 CFM / 1600W

Broan-NuTone BHFLED80 PowerHeat Bathroom Exhaust Fan, Heater, and LED Light Combination, 80 CFM

Broan-NuTone BHFLED80 PowerHeat Bathroom Exhaust Fan, Heater, and LED Light Combination, 80 CFM Product Image

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The Broan-NuTone BHFLED80 combines an exhaust fan, heater, and dimmable LED light in one ceiling unit. Each function can operate independently or together, allowing tailored use for ventilation, warmth, or lighting without running the central HVAC.

  • Ventilation: 80 CFM at 1.5 sones for routine moisture control and odor removal.
  • Lighting: Integrated, dimmable LED with three CCT color options: 2700K, 3500K, 5000K for nightlight or task lighting.
  • Design: White grille and modern styling for broad decor compatibility.

This unit suits small to medium bathrooms where combined functions and adjustable lighting are priorities. The 80 CFM capacity is standard for many bathrooms and the dimmable LED provides flexible illumination levels without separate fixtures.

Broan-NuTone 157 Low-Profile Fan-Forced Ceiling Heater, Enclosed Sheath Element

Broan-NuTone 157 Low-Profile Fan-Forced Ceiling Heater Product Image

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The Broan-NuTone 157 is a classic low-profile ceiling-mounted fan-forced heater designed to add supplemental heat in bathrooms, kitchens, or other rooms. It emphasizes a compact installation footprint and a durable build.

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  • Power: 1250W at 120VAC for rapid, localized heating.
  • Construction: Enclosed metal sheath heating element and satin aluminum grille for durability and a low-profile look.
  • Application: Designed for ceiling installation as a heating supplement rather than whole-house heating.

The 157 model is appropriate for users seeking straightforward ceiling heat without integrated lighting or complex controls. Its low-profile housing helps maintain ceiling aesthetics while delivering efficient heat directly to the bathroom area.

157 Bathroom Heater Ceiling, Compatible With Broan-NuTone 157, 1250W Rapid Heating

Femotic 157 Bathroom Ceiling Heater Product Image

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This Femotic 157-compatible ceiling heater mirrors the classic Broan 157 form factor while adding modern safety and heating technology. It uses PTC ceramic heating and built-in overheat protection for consistent performance.

  • Heating Technology: PTC ceramic element for fast warming and stable temperature output.
  • Safety: Overheat protection that disconnects power in fault conditions to reduce risk.
  • Noise & Design: Low-noise operation claimed and thin-shell aluminum grille for a smooth ceiling finish.

This unit is an option for homeowners who want a 157-style ceiling heater with enhanced safety features and quieter operation. Compatibility with existing 157 cutouts can simplify replacement installs.

Broan-NuTone 164 Bulb Heater And Fan, Energy-Saving 2-Bulb Infrared Type IC Ceiling Heater

Broan-NuTone 164 Bulb Heater And Fan Product Image

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The Broan-NuTone 164 uses two infrared heat bulbs paired with a ventilation fan, combining instant radiant warmth with exhaust capability. It is a long-established design for quick, targeted warmth in bathrooms.

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  • Heating: Uses two 250W R40 or BR40 infrared bulbs (bulbs not included) for near-instant radiant heat.
  • Ventilation: Fan rated at 70 CFM and 4.0 sones for air extraction while heating.
  • Use Case: Good for users who want immediate radiant heat and separate replacement bulbs for maintenance flexibility.

This model appeals where short-duration radiant heat is preferred, such as warming a shower area quickly. Consider bulb availability and replacement when selecting a bulb-style heater.

Panasonic WhisperWarm Ceiling Mount Bathroom Exhaust Fan With Heater, 50-80-110 CFM, FV-0511VH1

Panasonic WhisperWarm FV-0511VH1 Product Image

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The Panasonic WhisperWarm FV-0511VH1 pairs a high-power PTC heater with a whisper-quiet DC/ECM motor and customizable airflow. Its Pick-A-Flow feature makes it versatile across different bathroom sizes.

  • Heating: 1600W PTC heater for strong, consistent warm air output.
  • Airflow Options: Selectable 50, 80, or 110 CFM with low sound profile for flexible installation in various bathroom sizes.
  • Installation: Flex-Z Fast Bracket simplifies placement and reduces the need for attic access; supports 4″ or 6″ ducting.

Panasonic’s model suits users who need higher heating capacity and quieter operation, with adaptable airflow to match room volume. The installation features also ease retrofit into existing ceiling cavities.

Buying Guide: Choosing A Ceiling Bathroom Heater

Selecting the right ceiling heater involves matching heater type, ventilation capacity, safety features, and installation constraints to your bathroom size and use. Below are the primary considerations.

Heating Method

Fan-Forced Elements (PTC, metal sheath): Provide continuous warm air circulation and are suitable for sustained heating. They typically operate quietly and are common in low-profile units like the 157 and compatible models.

Infrared/Bulb Heaters: Deliver near-instant radiant heat focused on people and surfaces. They warm quickly for short periods but require bulb replacement and can be less energy-efficient for continuous use.

Airflow And Ventilation (CFM)

CFM rating indicates exhaust capacity. For moisture control in typical bathrooms, 50–110 CFM is common. Higher CFM suits larger bathrooms or those with heavy humidity from tubs and showers. Ensure the unit’s sones rating matches your noise tolerance.

Power And Heating Output

Heating wattage (e.g., 1250W, 1600W) correlates with how quickly a unit can raise bathroom temperature. Higher wattage provides faster and stronger warmth but can require appropriate circuit capacity. Confirm your electrical circuit can handle the unit’s load.

Multi-Function Units

Combined fan/heater/light units save ceiling space and consolidate wiring. Look for independent controls to operate only the needed function (heater, fan, or light) for efficiency and convenience.

Installation And Compatibility

Check ceiling cutout size, framing, and ducting options (4″ vs 6″). Units with simplified mounting brackets (e.g., Flex-Z) reduce install difficulty and may avoid attic entry. Verify clearances for IC-rated or non-IC installations if the unit sits against insulation.

Safety Features

Overheat protection, thermal cutoff fuses, and enclosed heating elements reduce fire and component-failure risks. PTC elements often offer self-regulating behavior. Ensure the unit complies with local electrical and building codes.

Noise And Motor Type

Noise is measured in sones. DC/ECM motors typically run quieter and more efficiently than older AC motors. If the heater will be used while occupants are present, prioritize low sones ratings for better comfort.

Lighting Options

Integrated LEDs with CCT options and dimmability add value and reduce separate fixture needs. Confirm whether LEDs are replaceable or integrated and consider nightlight features for nighttime safety.

Maintenance And Parts

Consider filter access, bulb replacement for infrared models, and serviceability. Models compatible with common replacement parts or established brands may simplify long-term upkeep.

Energy Use And Efficiency

Compare wattage and operational patterns. For infrequent, short bursts of heat, bulb-style heaters can be efficient. For frequent or sustained use, motor efficiency and thermostat control provide better long-term energy performance.

Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices

  1. 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.
  2. Check for Rebates
    Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Comparison Perspectives

  • Small Bathroom, Occasional Heating: Compact units like 80 CFM combos (BHFLED80) give a balance of ventilation, lighting, and occasional warmth.
  • Frequent Use Or Larger Spaces: Higher-wattage PTC heaters with selectable CFM (Panasonic WhisperWarm) provide stronger continuous heat and adjustable ventilation.
  • Quick Spot Warmth: Infrared bulb heaters (Broan 164) deliver immediate radiant heat for short durations.
  • Retrofit And Replacement: 157-compatible units (Broan 157, Femotic 157) are practical for replacing older 157 cutouts without major ceiling modifications.

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