How to Install an RV Roof Vent Fan

Upgrading your RV with a new roof vent fan can improve ventilation and keep your living space comfortable. The following installation steps for how to replace an RV vent fan apply to most vent fans, but in this blog, we’ll use the 14-inch Furrion vent fan kit as an example. 

1. Prepare for Installation
2. Install the New Vent Fan
3. Reconnect Power & Attach the Garnish Ring
4. Test Your New Vent Fan 

The first step to any successful installation is understanding what comes in the box. If you're installing the Furrion 14" vent fan, the kit will come with everything you need for a secure and efficient installation. From the fan itself to the necessary hardware and sealing materials, the components are designed to make the process straightforward, even for first-time DIYers. Before getting started, take a moment to inventory the kit and familiarize yourself with each part.

Your vent fan should come with:

• Vent fan unit
• Garnish ring
• Butyl tape
• Self-leveling lap sealant
• Wire connectors
• Installation screws: four flat-head screws (interior) and 18 pan-head screws (exterior) 

Equipping yourself with the right tools is essential for a smooth installation process. From removing the old fan to securing and sealing the new one, having these tools on hand will help you complete each step efficiently and effectively: 
 

• Scraper for removing old sealant
• Pencil
• Tape measure
• Diagonal cutters
• Electric drill and bits
• Cleaning supplies, such as a non-solvent cleaner and cloths 

Before installing a replacement RV vent fan, it's essential to prep your RV properly to ensure a seamless installation. This includes disconnecting all power sources, safely removing the old vent fan, and thoroughly cleaning the area around the opening. Taking the time to do this will make the installation process smoother and ensure your new fan functions properly. 

For safety, start by disconnecting all power sources. This includes unplugging from shore power, removing any generator connections, and turning off the RV’s battery. Ensuring there is no live current protects you from electrical shocks and prevents damage to the new fan during installation. 

Inside your RV, locate the existing fan and remove the garnish ring by unscrewing the four screws holding it in place. Next, cut or disconnect the wires connected to the old fan. Move to the roof, where you may find a rain cover secured over the vent. Remove this by unscrewing the brackets. Using a scraper, carefully remove any lap sealant around the vent opening to expose the screws securing the old fan. Unscrew these and gently lift the fan out of the roof. 

Once the old fan is removed, clean the area thoroughly. Use a scraper to remove any leftover sealant and debris around the opening. Then, spray a non-solvent cleaner or dish soap around the perimeter and wipe the area with a cloth. Make sure the surface is clean and smooth, as this will ensure a watertight seal for your new fan. 

With the old fan removed and the area prepped, it's time to install your RV vent fan replacement. Proper positioning, sealing, and securing the fan will not only enhance its performance but also prevent leaks or damage over time. Follow these steps to ensure a precise installation. 

Place the new fan in the roof opening, ensuring that the hinge is facing the front of the RV for optimal airflow and durability during travel. Use a pencil to trace the outline of the fan on the roof. This helps you confirm the clean area around the vent opening and ensures accurate placement. There should be at least two inches of cleared space around the fan. Next, apply a continuous strip of butyl tape to the bottom of the flange. Make sure the tape covers all the screw holes to create a watertight seal. 

Carefully remove the backing from the butyl tape, exposing the adhesive side. Lower the fan into the roof opening and press firmly to adhere it to the surface. Align the fan properly within the opening and secure it using the 18 self-drilling pan-head screws included in your kit. Tighten the screws evenly and avoid overtightening to prevent cracking the flange. 

Once the fan is secured, apply a continuous bead of self-leveling sealant along the outer edge of the flange. This sealant will provide an additional layer of waterproofing. Finish by applying a small amount of lap sealant over each screw head to protect them from moisture. 

With the fan securely in place, the next step is to reconnect the wiring and install the garnish ring inside the RV. This part of the installation is crucial for the fan's operation and for giving the vent a polished, finished appearance. 

Inside the RV, reconnect the fan's wiring to your RV’s power system. Use the wire connectors provided in the kit to join the positive wire from the fan to the positive wire from the RV, and the ground wire to the ground. Ensure the connections are secure and properly insulated to avoid electrical issues. Tuck the wires neatly into the gap between the ceiling and the roof for a clean look. 

The garnish ring gives the vent a finished appearance and secures it to the ceiling. Measure the thickness of your ceiling to ensure the ring fits snugly. If necessary, trim the garnish ring using a saw to match the ceiling depth. Insert the garnish ring into the opening, aligning it with the fan, and secure it in place using the four flat-head screws included in the kit. 

Now that the installation is complete, it’s time to ensure your new vent fan works properly. Testing it before wrapping up will allow you to confirm everything is connected securely and functioning as expected. 
  
To operate the fan, start by pulling the knob to unlock the vent lid, then rotate it to open or close the vent. Test the keypad controls to turn the fan on and off, adjusting the settings as needed. If the fan runs smoothly and the lid operates without issue, congratulations — you’ve successfully installed your new RV roof vent fan! 

Disclaimer: These photographs, recommendations, and approximations are intended for demonstration purposes only and do not reflect the specifications of any particular tow vehicle, recreational vehicle, or trailer. Always consult the manufacturer’s Owner's Manual.