Ceiling-mounted bathroom heaters add targeted, fast warmth while conserving energy and saving floor space. The table below compares five well-regarded units chosen for reliability, mounting type, and feature set to help you match a heater to your bathroom size and ventilation needs.
| Model | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Broan-NuTone 157 Low-Profile | Enclosed Sheath Element | 1250W, low-profile, aluminum grille |
| Femotic 157 Compatible Ceiling Heater | PTC Ceramic Replacement Style | 1250W, overheat protection, quiet operation |
| Xmnbl Replacement 157 | PTC Ceramic Replacement | 1250W, auto overheat disconnect, easy install hooks |
| Panasonic WhisperWarm FV-0511VH1 | Exhaust Fan With 1600W PTC Heater | 1600W, selectable CFM (50/80/110), Energy Star |
| Broan-NuTone BHFLED110 PowerHeat | Exhaust Fan + Heater + LED Light | 110 CFM, dimmable LED, independent functions |
Content Navigation
- Broan-NuTone 157 Low-Profile Fan-Forced Ceiling Heater
- 157 Bathroom Heater Ceiling — Femotic Compatible Unit
- Bathroom Ceiling Heater Replacement For Broan-NuTone 157 — Xmnbl
- Panasonic WhisperWarm Ceiling Mount Exhaust Fan With Heater
- Broan-NuTone BHFLED110 PowerHeat Bathroom Exhaust Fan, Heater, LED Light
- Buying Guide — How To Choose A Ceiling Mounted Bathroom Heater
Broan-NuTone 157 Low-Profile Fan-Forced Ceiling Heater
The Broan-NuTone 157 is a classic low-profile ceiling-mounted heater designed for supplemental warmth in bathrooms and small rooms. It operates at 1250W and 120VAC, providing rapid heat without taking up wall or floor space.
Its design features an enclosed metal sheath element, intended to provide reliable, long-lasting heating performance. The unit includes a durable aluminum grille with a satin finish for a subtle look that blends with many decors.
Install considerations: this unit is intended for ceiling mounting and typically requires hardwired connections and a compatible junction box. It is best suited as a supplement to central heat rather than a primary heat source for large spaces.
157 Bathroom Heater Ceiling — Femotic Compatible Unit
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The Femotic 157 is presented as a compatible alternative to standard 157-style ceiling heaters, using PTC ceramic heating to deliver 1250W rapid heating. The unit emphasizes quiet operation and a thin-shell design.
Safety features include an advanced overheat protection system that disconnects power in case of overheating or circuit failure. The manufacturer highlights a low-noise fan to maintain a comfortable, undisturbed environment during use.
Design and fit: the unit’s durable aluminum grille and satin surface aim to match existing decor. As with many ceiling heaters, installation requires proper electrical connections and compatible ceiling mounting provisions.
Bathroom Ceiling Heater Replacement For Broan-NuTone 157 — Xmnbl
The Xmnbl 157 replacement is positioned as an aftermarket replacement compatible with Broan-NuTone 157 housings. It uses PTC ceramic heating at 1250W and includes an automatic overheat protection safety cutoff.
Installation aids: this model advertises upgraded built-in mounting hooks to simplify attachment to a ceiling plate. The unit is intended for quick replacement without specialty tools, though electrical work should be performed according to local codes.
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Application notes: recommended as a supplemental heater for bathrooms, kitchens, and small spaces. Users should verify dimensions and compatibility with existing housings before purchase.
Panasonic WhisperWarm Ceiling Mount Exhaust Fan With Heater
The Panasonic WhisperWarm FV-0511VH1 combines ventilation and powerful heating with a 1600W PTC heater paired to a quiet DC/ECM motor. It is Energy Star–certified and designed for reliable performance in bathrooms.
Pick-A-Flow technology allows selection of 50, 80, or 110 CFM to match the room size and usage. The fan is engineered for whisper-quiet operation, suitable for nighttime or low-noise requirements.
Installation advantages: the unit includes a Flex-Z Fast Bracket for simplified positioning and does not require attic access for many installations. The higher wattage and integrated ventilation make it suitable for larger bathrooms or where combined exhaust and supplemental heat are desired.
Broan-NuTone BHFLED110 PowerHeat Bathroom Exhaust Fan, Heater, LED Light
The Broan-NuTone BHFLED110 PowerHeat is a combination exhaust fan, heater, and LED light designed to perform functions independently or together. The fan moves 110 CFM and operates at about 2 sones for moderate noise levels.
Lighting includes integrated dimmable LED with selectable color temperatures. The heater and fan aim to remove moisture while providing added warmth during use, useful for routine bathroom ventilation plus supplemental heating.
Use cases: suitable where ventilation and supplemental heat are both priorities. The integrated LED can serve as overhead bathroom lighting with dimming and color temperature control for comfort and task visibility.
Buying Guide — How To Choose A Ceiling Mounted Bathroom Heater
Selecting the right ceiling-mounted bathroom heater requires balancing heat output, ventilation needs, noise, safety features, and installation practicality. Use the following factors to compare models.
Heat Output And Room Size
Match heater wattage to bathroom size. Standard replacement 157-style units at 1250W are good for small bathrooms or targeted warming. For larger bathrooms, consider units with higher wattage (e.g., 1600W) or combined heater+fan models that move air to distribute heat.
Integrated Ventilation And CFM
If you need moisture control, choose a unit that combines an exhaust fan. Look at CFM ratings—common options include 50, 80, 110 CFM. Higher CFM removes humidity faster but may produce more noise.
Noise Levels
Noise is rated in sones for many bathroom fans. For quieter bathrooms, seek models with lower sones or those that advertise whisper-quiet DC motors. If noise matters, compare sones and read specification sheets rather than relying solely on product photos.
Safety Features
Key safety features include overheat protection, enclosed heating elements, and thermal cutoff switches. PTC ceramic heaters typically have stable thermal behavior and automatic protection, while enclosed sheath elements provide physical protection around the heating element.
Installation And Compatibility
Confirm that the heater fits your existing ceiling opening or housing. Replacement units often advertise compatibility with standard 157 housings. Check mounting hooks, wiring requirements, and whether attic access is needed. For integrated fan/heater combos, ensure duct sizing (4″ or 6″) and electrical circuit capacity.
Energy Efficiency And Controls
Look for Energy Star certification on ventilating fans and efficient PTC elements for lower electrical draw relative to heat delivered. Consider units with independent controls for fan, heater, and light so you run only what you need.
Lighting And Multi-Function Units
Some models incorporate LED lighting or bulb-style infrared heaters. Integrated lighting can consolidate fixtures and provide dimmable or color temperature options. Infrared bulb heaters require bulb selection and replacement, while PTC units provide integrated heating without bulb maintenance.
Durability And Finish
Aluminum grilles and metal housings resist moisture and corrosion better than some plastics. For humid bathrooms, choose corrosion-resistant finishes and sealed housings to extend service life.
Maintenance And Serviceability
Consider ease of cleaning and part replacement. Units with accessible grills and standard bulb sizes (for bulb heaters) simplify maintenance. Aftermarket replacement modules can extend the life of standard 157 housings.
Comparison Perspectives
- Small Bathroom, Quick Warm-Up: A 1250W 157-style unit is compact and efficient.
- Larger Bathroom With Vent Needs: Choose a combined fan/heater like the Panasonic WhisperWarm or Broan BHFLED110 for higher CFM and integrated ventilation.
- Quiet Operation Priority: Look for DC motors and low-sone ratings (Panasonic WhisperWarm emphasizes quiet operation).
- Easy Replacement: Aftermarket 157-compatible units (Xmnbl, Femotic) aim to fit existing housings and may include handy mounting features.
Before purchasing, verify electrical circuit capacity and local building codes. For hardwired ceiling heaters and exhaust fan combos, consider professional installation if you are not experienced with household wiring.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
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