Broan-Nautilus Bathroom Fan- Energy Efficient-36 watt-QXTE110 Series

If you're trying to save energy, money, and the planet by buying energy-efficient appliances, a bathroom ceiling light/fan combo unit is not exactly the first thing that comes to mind. This device, however, can be a big energy waster. Many people use the restroom, leave the fan on when they're done to blow away odors and moisture, then forget about it and let it run for hours.

This product has several advantages beyond just being energy efficient. One of its main selling points is that, while some fans can be very noisy humming and rattling away, this unit is very quiet. It operates at a slow speed of 680 RPM (revolutions per minute). The motor is permanently lubricated and corrosion resistant, so it will not grow noisier over time (or it will do so very slowly). The unit is constructed with a special anti-vibration mounting system connecting at four points (instead of two), reducing the chance that vibrations will shake it loose over time and cause an annoying rattle. Finally, the connector joining the fan to the duct system is polymer with tapered sleeves, ensuring a snug fit eliminating metallic clatter.

The QXTE110 ceiling fan/light has a few other strong points. Is it designed to be easy to install for amateur home remodelers. It is UL listed and approved for use over bathtubs and showers (when connected to a CFGI-protected branch circuit). The light-diffusing lens is made from shatter-resistant plastic. It is also covered with a 1-year limited manufacturer's warranty.

There is one drawback with this particular model for energy-conscious consumer. This is one of the larger models designed to illuminate and vent a large bathroom. Consequently, it uses a larger motor using more energy and generating more noise. For shoppers who have only a medium-sized bathroom (defined as 65 square feet or less), this may be more power than they need-in other words, inefficient. This is easily solved, however. Broan-Nautilus manufactures several different models in the energy-efficient QTXE series, include several smaller models from venting smaller bathrooms. All are Energy Star compliant and ultra quiet.

Finally, this is not the ultimate in energy-efficient technology. It still uses a fluorescent light bulb, instead of an LED lighting system that would use the least amount of energy. LED-based home lighting is still a fairly new technology, however, and therefore is rather expensive. Broan-Nautilus clearly had to choose between maximum energy savings or a competitive price, and the lower price won out. We can forgive them for that, though-a competitive price is probably better for the environment at this point in time anyway, as more people will buy and install them.

Overall, this is a good product. There are not exactly a lot of bathroom ceiling fans on the market designed for a green customer base. This unit is a good balance between quality and price, providing a high-quality product with the most energy savings attainable at a reasonable, competitive price.