Not sure exactly what category to put this under, but then again in talking with professionals, it does seem no one really wants to own the bath exhaust vent category! I have two Panasonic 110/80cfm bath fans to install this weekend and am leaning towards using PVC unless someone can talk me out of it. While not maybe the most popular, it does seem to offer some advantages. The question is — what is the best way to terminate a 4″ PVC pipe that exits the side wall of a house. One article mentioned a candy cane finish, but I presume that would give an area for the condensation/moisture to collect and freeze. I would like a method to reduce wind entry as much as possible and obviously eliminate any chance of birds or insects wanting a free home.
Or am I overthinking this and should I just run an insulated flex line to a standard wall style termination vent with flapper?
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I’ve put in a whole lot of vents, baths, kitchens, and dryers in almost any configuration and have never used pvc.
I don’t know of any reason not to but beats me. Depending on the schedule you use I’d think you can figure a way using conventional terminations and cobble it together.
We always use 4" insulated AC duct. The insulation is the important part.
I agree with Calvin. The most important reason for the flex duct is vibration caused
by the fan motor. Solid duct will intensify the motor noise so it sounds like a jet engine
at takeoff power.
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I've used PVC many times. No reason other than cost not to use it.
Andy - How have you handled your outside terminations?
I have multiple fans with solid ductwork in my house, and none of them produce excessive sound. But I also did take precautions to make sure the fan housings were very well fastened.