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How to screw exhaust fan into bathroom ceiling?

I'm replacing an old bathroom fan. The new fan purchased is a snug fit in the hole - however the design means it won't fit in with the attached clamps on the side. Screwing it into the ceiling results in the screws just falling out. I don't want to start cutting more holes in the ceiling just so the clamps will fit through. How do I therefore attach the fan to the plasterboard - is there a specific screw that will work?

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EricL

Hello @riteoh

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your exhaust fan.

Can you please tell us model number or post a picture of the box the exhaust fan came in. We can then investigate if the unit you have has holes for screw mounting. I also propose looking at the owner's manual to see if there is a provision for screw mounting. Another option is to just cut some notches for the clips to pass through instead of cutting a new hole.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Nailbag

Hi @riteoh

If the fan is a snug fit then it sounds like the hole opening is fine for the new fan. If there are/is screws falling out when trying to install it, then I suspect you're doing something wrong in the process.

Regardless of brand they all tend to fasten the same way with tabs within the fan frame that spin out and then tighten down onto the top of the plasterboard. Or they have spring loaded tabs. But sounds like you might have the swing in tabs.

Have another read of the installation instructions and then check this video out and start at 1min 50sec.

If your still struggling, then as @EricL mentioned, send through the brand and model number

Regards Nailbag

Dave-1

Godo Morning @riteoh

If you have a photo of the fan you are trying to fit plus the model and another pic of the hole in the ceiling it wiould make it easier 🙂 At the moment I have a whole bunch of "tabs" and holes in plaster in my mind and trying to match them with your description is a little hard.

Dave

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