Fix Bathroom Exhaust Fan Flapper Rattle During High Winds

This video describes a design flaw in nearly all bathroom exhaust fans. The built in flapper valve is not heavy enough to stay closed when winds are even mild. This causes the valve to be slightly open all the time during winds. Then when the wind changes direction the valve will slam shut and make an irritating noise. This video shows how to fix it for cheap in 10 minutes.
0:00 Intro
0:20 Remove cover and fan motor
1:02 Description of poor design
2:29 (Not so) Scientific demo and how to fix the rattle problem
4:18 Implementing the fix
5:44 Improving the fix
6:06 Wrap up

[@JacquelynForster]

Thanks that was super helpful and I really appreciate the visual demo.

[@jimf9304]

Nice job! Although I hate ladder-work, these flappers seem designed to drive us crazy... so high-ho, it's up the steps I go.

[@jcon6115]

Great video I have three of these in my house. I better get after it thanks!

[@HaydonRyan]

I wonder if you could have put a small piece of adhesive foam on the top too to dampen the closing noise. You’d need the counterweight though.
I have this problem in my master bathroom. Gets annoying when it’s windy.

[@emilytasker34]

Thank you!!!! 🙏🏻

[@fredpatton4055]

Definitely don’t want to add too much weight or the fan won’t open flapper. I don’t think I would cut the little plastic tabs off. They are there to grab on to remove door with pliers. Took mine on and off several times didn’t break. Snaps in place.

[@charlesrodriguez7984]

Seems like you need a new fan. My fans all have those little flaps that stay completely closed. Only time they move is when it’s windy. Usually when the wind is blowing at an angle towards the roof vent.

[@paniccontrol]

Does it still open when you turn the fan on?

[@mrdiyguy123]

Yes of course :)

[@gideonstibor2519]

you may want to check by turning on the fan and go outside to the vent and feel for air flow. These fans are not powerful and most likely don't have the pressure required to push open the flap with the nuts on it.
@@mrdiyguy123

[@mrdiyguy123]

I checked and the fan was easily able to open the flapper. Additionally, steamy air is vacated equally well before and after the modification. Your point is valid though and a really heavy weight could over power the fan.

[@paniccontrol]

@@mrdiyguy123 Thank you.

[@janicelloyd3215]

What happens when flapper stays open?

[@leavethemkidsalone860]

Warm air leaks out of the house constantly.