By pairing Panasonic’s ventilation performance with a superior  sound system, Whisper Symphony  delivers both fun and functionality. From listening to a favorite playlist while getting ready for the day, catching up on a podcast mid-hair wash or creating a spa-like experience, homeowners will enjoy the way  this all-in-one upgrade enhances a space with superior airflow, quiet operation and immersive sound. 

Available soon, Whisper Symphony transforms comfort and daily enjoyment. It features dual integrated speakers inside the fan that deliver optimal audio with the highest decibel rating, ensuring reliable performance even in high-humidity spaces 

QuikConnect Bluetooth allows users to pair two devices simultaneously, eliminating the need to disconnect and reconnect. A quiet, energy-efficient DC motor reduces long-term operational costs while maintaining strong ventilation performance 

Flex-Z Fast brackets allow easy installation from below the ceiling, compatible with 2-by-6 joists, 3- and 4-in. ducts, and existing ductwork.

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It’s time to move airflow to the front row of design conversations. Today’s homeowners want spaces that feel as good as they look, and that means performance and aesthetics have to work together. Bringing airflow into the conversation early ensures comfort and wellness, and also supports the cohesive, thoughtful design that homeowners expect.

The Hidden Role of Airflow and Distribution

Airflow is invisible, but clients experience it every day. In kitchens and baths, poor diffuser placement often leads to performance and maintenance issues. Condensation may damage finishes, odors may persist, or air may blow uncomfortably onto occupants. These problems often become apparent only after the project is complete, risking callbacks and dissatisfaction.

At the same time, traditional stamped-metal diffusers frequently clash with design intent. In high-visibility areas such as a marble bathroom or a contemporary open kitchen, a bulky grille can disrupt the clean lines and carefully planned aesthetics.

Why Kitchens and Baths Require Smarter Ventilation

Kitchens and bathrooms are among the most demanding spaces in any home. Kitchens require ventilation that can manage heat, humidity, and odor without creating unpleasant drafts in cooking or dining zones. Bathrooms rely on efficient airflow to quickly remove steam, protecting finishes and supporting comfort.

Open layouts, radiant surfaces, and larger window walls also influence how air moves. Legacy diffuser methods are not always adequate for these conditions, which is why more designers are now exploring advanced, design-conscious solutions.

Performance Aligned with Design

Air distribution technology has advanced significantly. Composite diffusers and other advanced materials are demonstrating their value in today’s residential projects. Designed to minimize condensation, prevent corrosion, and operate quietly, these solutions can also adapt more easily to custom ceiling layouts. This flexibility is especially important in modern homes, where features such as curved coves, skylights, and recessed lighting can restrict traditional mounting options. For design professionals, this means airflow no longer requires compromise. A bathroom can maintain its spa-like tranquility and a kitchen can preserve its cohesive lines, while still delivering reliable performance.

One often-overlooked component of bathroom ventilation is the exhaust fan cover. Traditionally, these covers were bulky plastic grilles that disrupted otherwise cohesive interiors. Today, design-conscious alternatives use slim, flush-mount profiles that blend seamlessly into ceilings. Many can even be painted to match the surrounding surface, allowing ventilation to perform effectively without drawing visual attention. This shift reflects a larger trend toward integrating functional systems into the overall design language of a space.

Composite options reduce dust buildup and extend product lifespan, while updated designs allow easier access for maintenance and cleaning. For remodels or new builds, specifying these discreet covers ensures that essential ventilation supports comfort, health, and aesthetics in equal measure.

Airflow and Indoor Air Quality

The conversation around wellness and indoor air quality has also accelerated in recent years, and kitchens and baths are often at the center. These are the spaces most affected by shifts in humidity, heat, and airborne particles. While upgraded filtration systems are important, the way air is delivered into the space determines how effectively those systems perform. Poorly directed airflow can create stagnant areas or push air directly onto occupants, undermining comfort. By guiding diffuser selection and placement, designers can help safeguard wellness and deliver solutions that clients notice immediately.

The Value of Early Coordination

The best time to address airflow is before walls are closed. When designers collaborate with HVAC professionals early, they avoid conflicts with cabinetry, tile layouts, or lighting plans. More importantly, they ensure the airflow strategy supports both the design vision and the long-term performance of the space.

This coordination protects investments in premium finishes and fixtures but also reduces the risk of callbacks. For designers, it is an opportunity to expand their influence into an area that directly impacts the client’s daily experience.

A Call to Industry Professionals

Kitchens and bathrooms are no longer treated as purely functional rooms. They are the most design-driven, wellness-oriented spaces in today’s homes. Airflow should be recognized as a design material in its own right, on par with stone, wood, or lighting. By making it part of early planning, professionals can deliver projects that perform as beautifully as they look.

Airflow may not be visible, but its effects are felt every day. For design professionals, considering it as a core element of the process is what separates a good project from a great one.

—Marc Mascarello is the Head of Design at Invi Air

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Featuring dual-device Bluetooth pairing, the WhisperFit DC with Bluetooth Speakers offers a unique option for builders, contractors and developers seeking to manage moisture and enhance indoor air quality in their residential construction projects.  

WhisperFit DC offers top-tier sound performance and features dual integrated speakers mounted inside the fan housing to deliver sound clarity with the highest decibel rating, even in moisture prone environments.

It allows for simultaneous QuikConnect Bluetooth pairing for up to two Apple or Android devices with no need to disconnect and reconnect. The Dynamic Pick-A-Flow Speed Selector offers 50/80/110 (CFM) airflow options to meet specific ventilation needs, simplifying selection and reducing inventory complexity.

The new Panasonic fan installs quickly, in remodels or new construction, from below the ceiling using Flex-Z Fast brackets, which fits 2-by-6 joists, and supports both 3- and 4-in. ducts, plus it works with existing ductwork.

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As any seasoned installer knows, the bathroom is one of the most demanding spaces in the home, where lighting and airflow make all the difference. In fact, lighting quality and air circulation are two of the most important—and often overlooked—elements in bath design. Each control in this line highlights these benefits by improving daily comfort and adding lasting value to any bath remodel. These solutions let the pros move beyond basic on/off switches and exceed client expectations with added conveniences they did not know they needed.

With fast installations, advanced technology and a classic yet contemporary look, the Bath Control Line gives pros a powerful new way to delight customers and boost project value, without adding time or complexity.

Easy to Find, Easy on the Eyes 

The new Diva LED+ dimmer with night mode enhances both safety and comfort. The soft glow makes the switch discoverable in the dark without straining the eyes, a convenience clients will appreciate. The dimmer also automatically detects darkness and gently raises the bath’s lighting, preventing the sudden jolt of full brightness during half-asleep night time visits. The product is also equipped with advanced technology for superior dimming performance with LED and other popular bulb types.

Humidity Detection to Reduce Moisture, Mold and Mildew 

The new Lutron humidity sensor switch uses precision sensing technology to detect changes in moisture levels and automatically control exhaust fans to reduce mold and mildew. It reacts quickly to rapid humidity rises, such as during a shower and is engineered to handle sustained moisture levels, making it ideal for tropical or high-humidity markets. Lutron’s humidity sensor switch helps save energy and protect the bath remodel for years to come. 

Additional Options Ideal for Powder Rooms 

Lutron’s new LED+ dimmer & timer dual switch is perfect for baths with tight spaces. The new LED+ dual switch is for use with dimmable bulbs and controls both lighting and fans from one sleek device, saving wall space and reducing call-backs. When connected to a fan, the built-in timer conserves energy and helps prevent high humidity levels. 

Lutron’s new timer switch automatically shuts off lights and fans, so homeowners do not have to remember to return once humidity or odors are gone. Both install in about 15 minutes, making them a wise, value-adding upgrade for any project. 

All products debut in a sleek gloss white finish, designed to blend seamlessly into any modern bath. When installed side by side, the dimmer pairs beautifully with either the humidity sensor or the timer. The humidity sensor features a clean paddle-style switch, subtle white indicator lights and screwless faceplates (sold separately), ensuring a cohesive look with the rest of the Lutron Bath Control line.

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Creating Healthier Indoor Environments

Ventilation is a key solution to maintaining healthy indoor air quality. It involves replacing stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air, diluting pollutants and improving air quality. Effective ventilation systems help control humidity levels and reduce the concentration of indoor contaminants.

Bathroom ventilation plays a crucial role in this process. It specifically targets the unique challenges of moisture and odors that often accumulate in these spaces. Proper bathroom ventilation can significantly reduce humidity, preventing the potential growth of mold and mildew, which can negatively impact both health and structural integrity. Additionally, effective ventilation helps eliminate unpleasant odors, contributing to a more pleasant atmosphere in the entire home.

Mechanical systems, such as ventilation fans, energy recovery ventilators, purification systems and HVAC units with filtration capabilities, significantly enhance air quality by filtering harmful particles. Natural ventilation, such as opening windows, can also improve IAQ, especially in areas with relatively clean outdoor air. Today’s homes are built more tightly, and whole-home ventilation strategies, including dedicated bathroom ventilation, are increasingly important for circulating air effectively.

A well-ventilated environment contributes to lower rates of respiratory illnesses and promotes physical health. In bathrooms specifically, reducing moisture and pollutants leads to cleaner air and a healthier living space.

IAQ’s Connection to Physical & Mental Health

Poor indoor air quality can lead to respiratory issues like asthma, allergies and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Common pollutants such as mold, dust mites, pet dander and volatile organic compounds can exacerbate these conditions, leading to symptoms such as fatigue and headaches. Studies show that individuals exposed to poor IAQ are more likely to experience mental stress, further compromising their overall well-being.

The relationship between indoor air quality and mental health is also gaining attention. Poor air quality can lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression, exacerbating stress. In contrast, improved IAQ through effective ventilation is linked to better mood and cognitive performance. Research from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health shows that workers in well-ventilated environments exhibit higher cognitive function scores compared to those in spaces with inadequate ventilation.

Productivity and Performance

Indoor air quality significantly influences workplace productivity. Employees spend a large portion of their lives indoors – whether working from home or in an office, and the conditions of these environments directly affect their efficiency and creativity. Poor air quality can lead to decreased concentration and increased fatigue, which hinders performance.

Furthermore, when air quality is compromised, employees may be more prone to illness, leading to higher absenteeism. Investing in ventilation systems can help reduce these absences, benefiting an organization’s bottom line. Healthy and comfortable employees are less likely to miss work, improving team collaboration and continuity.

Adherence to Compliance & Safety Standards

Indoor air quality is also critical for compliance with safety standards. Governments and health organizations have established guidelines to ensure indoor environments are safe. Compliance not only protects residents and employees but also reduces legal liabilities for businesses.

In 2024, the International Energy Conservation Code introduced new regulations for multifamily buildings that emphasize improved ventilation standards. These updates mandate enhanced ventilation measures to ensure indoor air quality, promoting healthier living environments. Proper implementation of these codes ensures compliance and contributes to the well-being of occupants.

Failing to meet air quality standards can lead to significant consequences, including fines and reputational damage. Regular assessments and improvements to indoor air quality, particularly through proper ventilation, are essential for compliance with safety regulations.

Maintaining good indoor air quality through effective ventilation is a proactive risk management strategy. Ensuring spaces are free from harmful pollutants minimizes the risk of respiratory issues and allergies.

In residential settings, good indoor air quality is vital, especially for children and the elderly, who are more susceptible to the effects of poor air quality. In professional settings better IAQ fosters healthier work environments to help boost employee morale. Implementing measures to improve IAQ in homes – such as regular cleaning, using non-toxic materials and ensuring adequate ventilation – can lead to healthier living conditions.

IAQ Is No Longer an Afterthought

The significance of indoor air quality cannot be overstated. It impacts our health and well-being, shapes productivity and ensures compliance with safety standards. Prioritizing ventilation and IAQ, individuals and organizations will create healthier environments that foster well-being and performance.

As we spend more time indoors, understanding and improving indoor air quality is critical for our well-being. Investing in air quality improvements – including effective ventilation systems – is not just about compliance; it’s an investment in human capital and quality of our lives. Let us recognize the profound impact of the air we breathe in every room in our homes.

—By Russell Pope, Industry Development Manager, Panasonic Eco Systems North America

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The company initially had no plans to enter the exhaust fan market. However, everything changed when the CEO’s wife, an experienced interior designer, proposed upgrading the design of the exhaust fan cover, the only visible part of the fan on the bathroom ceiling. As an interior designer, she had noticed that people often disliked the conventional plastic covers and preferred the sleek, modern design of InviAir’s square diffusers. This revelation sparked the company’s interest in venturing into the exhaust fan business.

InviAir’s team set out to revolutionize the exhaust fan market by crafting a sleek and efficient fan cover. Unveiling a breakthrough design, the team ensured it offered the same excellent access and airflow as conventional plastic covers, but with a twist – it was crafted using InviAir’s proprietary smart material. Just like their renowned diffusers, this product can be seamlessly installed, sitting perfectly flush with the ceiling’s surface. 

Additional product highlights include:

• Frameless installation
• Suitable for gypsum ceilings and some specialty ceilings
• Sized to work with the most popular exhaust fans on the market, but can be customized to work with any exhaust fan
• Can integrate a motion sensor for some fan models
• Easy to paint. Match virtually any ceiling color and texture
• Composite green smart material, reduces static and dust buildup
• ASTM E 84 Class A Rated
• CARB Phase II Compliant

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All of the bath fans in the line use energy-efficient, permanently lubricated motors that are designed to increase the life cycle of the units for up to 70,000 hours of continuous use. Three of the fans — Select, Select Fit and Commercial — feature speed-selectable, self-compensating DC motors, engineered to maintain rated airflow as static pressure changes — up to 0.4 in. w.g. — better than the leading competitors.

All of the new Fantech fans are easy to install and come with a five-year warranty. The residential units are ENERGY STAR and HVI certified. Each fan follows a simple naming structure that looks like a series of numbers and letters but is packed with necessary and easy-to-understand details. 

The bathfan line’s residential fans include:

Simple: The line’s most basic fan, suitable for bathrooms from 80 to 100 square feet. Single speed and available in 80- to 100-CFM options with or without a light.

Select Fit: Features a low-profile design and is ideal for bathrooms up to 100 square feet thanks to the units’ speed selectable settings. Options include speed-selectable motors (50, 80, or 100 CFM), occupancy and humidity sensors, a light, and ASHRAE 62.2-compliant continuous flow.

Select: Includes a self-compensating DC motor suitable for bathrooms up to 150 square feet. Optional speed selection for 50-80-110 CFM or 110-130-150 CFM. Other options include ASHRAE 62.2-compliant continuous flow, a light, and occupancy and humidity sensors for the 110-130-150 CFM fan.

Recessed: This fan’s sleek and modern design does not take up a lot of space, it is perfect for bathrooms up to 80 square feet. It offers single-speed operation of 80 CFM with an LED recessed light bulb.

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Leviton Decora Humidity Sensor and Fan Controls are available in two models — a Single Pole Humidity Sensor and Fan Control, as well as a Combination Humidity Sensor and Fan Control with Light Switch. Both models automatically detect excess humidity in a room and activate the ventilation fan to lessen condensation, which helps reduce mold and mildew. The fan will then automatically switch off after the set time-out period.

The built-in sensor uses a microprocessor combined with state-of-the-art digital sensing technology to continuously monitor a room or space’s humidity level and manage the ventilation fan accordingly. The devices feature user-friendly controls to adjust sensitivity and time-out settings, as well as operating modes for bath exhaust fan, air cycle and humidistat. Both devices offer users the option of manually turning the ventilation fan on to address immediate needs.   

For ease of installation, the devices feature a slim profile and are the only humidity sensor and fan control products on the market today that do not require a neutral wire to install. Flexible installation options include wiring with a neutral wire if available, or by using an earth ground connection. 

Leviton Decora Humidity Sensor and Fan Controls comply with the requirements of 2019 and 2022 California Title 22, Part 6, Indoor Air Quality and Mechanical Ventilation, as well as CALGREEN, Part II, Indoor Air Quality and Exhaust.   

The devices are compatible with Decora and Decora Plus wallplates and are ideal for use in bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms and home spas. 

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Sophisticated Craftsmanship

• Corrosion- and tarnish-resistant solid brass nozzles designed and made in the USA
• Elegant, custom finishes available to complement existing bathroom features

Cutting-Edge Solution

• Prevents mold and mildew
• Minimizes watermarks
• Eliminates after-shower humidity
• Decreases slippery floors
• Extends the life of your tile and grout

Nozzle Configuration

• Add up to 12 AirJet nozzles per system to ensure uniform drying in any shower space, including floors, benches and glass walls.
• Use multiple AirJet Drying Systems for larger and/or complicated spaces. Please contact us for more details.
• Two types of AirJet Rough-In Nozzle Bases: Straight (for ceiling install) and 90-Degree (for wall and vertical install).
• Two standard types of AirJet Nozzle Trims: Fixed and Directional.
• Extended Nozzle Trim (fixed and directional) is available for tight spaces.

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Designed for single-family dwellings and new construction built to meet energy-efficiency standards, the Intelli-Balance 200 provides healthy air quality within the home. With its two electronically commutated brushless motors with built-in SmartFlow technology, the ERV offers precision ventilation with low power consumption. The device’s multi-speed selector (60 to 200 cubic feet per minute) provides customizable airflow to create balanced, positive or negative air pressure within the home.

With the optional, all-new LCD Wall Control Panel, homeowners have instant access to custom ventilation control settings and real-time air flow and temperature monitoring. The occupant-controlled Boost function, with an adjustable timer from 10 to 60 minutes, provides increased ventilation on demand with the tap of a button ensuring balanced airflow.

The Intelli-Balance 200 Ventilator from Panasonic also facilitates simplicity from the builder’s perspective with a mounting bracket that supports three installation options. The ERV can be floor, wall or ceiling mounted and does not require connection to the Central HVAC or the addition of a condensation line. This allows it to be installed in many places throughout the home to meet space and design requirements. For additional installation flexibility, the device also has adjustable supply and return air adaptors.

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This Eaton device helps prevent mold and mildew by detecting and removing moisture in the air, which in turn provides for a more comfortable and welcoming environment. The fan also will turn off the exhaust fan after the humidity level drops to a comfortable level, which helps save energy.

Additional features include:

• Replaces standard single pole switch
• Turns fan ON/OFF automatically based on present humidity level
• Includes three humidity settings adjustment: high, medium and low
• Humidity range 45%-80% relative humidity
• Manual ON / automatic OFF for fan
• Time delay for fan is 30 minutes
• Fan can be manually controlled for immediate ventilation needs
• Maximum fan load 1/4HP, 3A
• Compatible with traditional, decorator or screwless switch wall plate

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A steam shower only requires two gallons of water for a 20-minute steam session, and ThermaSol steam showers are highly energy efficient with patented SmartSteam and FastStart technologies. SmartSteam keeps water in the tank at just the right temperature before steam is created to save energy and avoid the system having to turn on and off repeatedly. With FastStart, the steam flows through the room in a fraction of time, which also saves energy. FastStart also deactivates if the generator is not used in 7 days and can be disabled or set to “green” power saving mode.

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