Replies

1. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay | Dec 31, 2012 06:40am | #1

   Stephen,
   Builders do it all the time. Of course, you have to use an inline exhaust fan, not a typical ceiling-mounted unit. Several manufacturers make inline fans, including Fantech:
   http://residential.fantech.net/residential-products/inline-duct-fans/inline-exhaust-fans/

2. 
   user-901114 | Dec 31, 2012 08:31am | #2

   Thanks for the link. I'll have to do some reading. Is it acceptable to connect my range hood, laundry and bath to one fan?

3. 
   davidmeiland | Dec 31, 2012 10:33am | #3

   I would say no to the second question. The range hood needs a higher flow rate and a larger duct than the bath fans. You could probably use one inline fan for a pair of bathrooms if you really want to, with a three-way switch.

4. 
   user-901114 | Dec 31, 2012 11:35am | #4

   Thanks David. Can they share a wall penetration? Or no because of the duct size?

5. 
   davidmeiland | Dec 31, 2012 03:29pm | #5

   Stephen, are you asking if a range hood and bath fan could share a wall penetration? I would really try to avoid it. You would have to wye the ducts together and use backdraft dampers upstream of the wye on both sides (to prevent the fans from blowing air through each other and back into the house). I think it would be highly unusual. I assume you are trying to avoid multiple ugly mechanical vent caps on the front of your house, but you could get a tin man to make a nice looking dual termination, or have a carpenter make a wooden hood that makes them less visible.