Why is water dripping from my bathroom extractor fan?
Water dripping from an extractor fan is often condensation from warm bathroom air inside the duct, but it can also point to a damaged duct, missing insulation or a roof leak. Because the fan is electrical, treat it as a safety issue first.
What should I do straight away?
Do not use the fan, shower or bath if water is dripping from the fan grille, light or ceiling around it. Keep people away from the area and, if you can do so safely, switch off the fan circuit at the consumer unit. Do not touch a wet fan, remove its cover or put anything through the grille.
Catch any drips in a bowl placed below the fitting and dry the floor to reduce the slip risk. If water is coming through the ceiling quickly, spreading, or near other electrics, arrange urgent help from a qualified electrician and investigate the source of the water.
Could it be condensation in the duct?
Yes. A fan carries warm, moist air away from the room. When that air meets a cold loft or external duct, moisture can condense inside the pipe and run back towards the fan if the duct is poorly insulated, sagging or not routed well.
This is more likely in colder weather or after long showers. A competent installer can check that the duct is supported, insulated where appropriate and directed correctly to the outside. The outlet should vent outdoors rather than into a loft space.
Could water be getting in from outside?
Drips that start after heavy rain, or staining that spreads around the fan, can indicate water entering through the roof, a vent terminal or another part of the ceiling void. Condensation normally follows humid bathroom use; rain-related water needs a different investigation.
A roofer can assess the roof and external terminal, while an electrician should inspect the fan and its connections before it is used again. Do not assume a fan fault is the cause if the ceiling itself is wet.
When can the fan be used again?
Only after the water source has been fixed and the fan has been checked as safe by a qualified electrician. Replacing just the fan without sorting the ducting or roof issue can allow the same problem to return.
Once repaired, use the extractor during showers and leave it running afterwards if it has an overrun timer. This helps remove moisture, but a properly fitted duct and external outlet are just as important.
Quick extractor fan drip checklist
- Stop using the fan and shower if water is dripping from the fitting.
- Switch off the relevant circuit only if it is safe to do so.
- Keep the floor dry and avoid touching the wet fan or grille.
- Note whether the problem follows showers, cold weather or rain.
- Have ducting, insulation and the external outlet checked.
- Ask a qualified electrician to confirm the fan is safe before reuse.