Broan-NuTone A80 Ventilation Fan 80 CFM - Quiet Retrofit Bath Fan

Our review of the Broan-NuTone A80 finds it to be a practical, no-frills bathroom exhaust fan for homeowners and DIY remodelers who need reliable ventilation without attic access. The single-speed unit delivers a steady 80 CFM of airflow while keeping sound levels modest at 2.0 sones, and its roomside retrofit design means installations can be completed from inside the room. Overall this fan is best for typical bathrooms up to about 75 sq. ft. where straightforward performance and reduced air leakage matter more than extra features.

Key Features

• 80 CFM airflow: Moves enough air to ventilate bathrooms up to 75 sq. ft., helping clear humidity and odors quickly.
• 2.0 sones sound level: Provides a balance of power and acceptable noise so the fan is effective without being excessively loud.
• Roomside retrofit installation: Designed to be installed entirely from the room side, eliminating the need to access an attic for most replacements.
• TrueSeal Damper Technology: Reduces air leakage by up to 50% compared with competitive models to limit backdrafts and improve home energy performance.
• UL listed for tub/shower: Safe for installation over a bathtub or shower when used with a GFCI circuit, allowing flexible placement.

Who It's For

The A80 is aimed at homeowners, contractors, and DIYers replacing an existing bathroom fan or installing ventilation in a small-to-medium bathroom where easy roomside installation is a priority. Its compact housing and retrofit-friendly features make it especially useful in remodels where attic access is limited.

It is less well suited for users who need multi-speed controls, integrated lighting, or very quiet operation under 1.5 sones; those buyers should consider other models with additional features or lower sones ratings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid air movement at 80 CFM that clears steam and prevents fogged mirrors effectively.
• Roomside installation simplifies retrofit work and saves time on projects without attic access.
• TrueSeal damper design reduces unwanted air leakage to improve overall home efficiency.
• UL listing for use over tubs and showers gives safe placement options when on a GFCI circuit.

Cons

• Noise level receives mixed feedback; at 2.0 sones it is not the quietest option available.
• Single-speed operation limits flexibility for users who want multiple fan speeds or integrated lighting.

Specifications

Brand	Broan-NuTone
Model Type	InVent A80 ventilation fan
Airflow	80 CFM
Sound Rating	2.0 sones
Coverage	Up to 75 sq. ft.
Installation	Roomside retrofit, no attic access required
Safety Listing	UL listed for use over tubs and showers with GFCI circuit

Our Verdict

The Broan-NuTone A80 is a dependable, value-oriented bathroom exhaust fan that suits most small-to-medium bathrooms and renovation jobs where easy roomside installation and reduced air leakage matter. It delivers effective steam removal and solid airflow for the price, though buyers seeking quieter operation or extra features should look at higher-end alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this fan be installed without attic access?
Yes. The A80 is designed for roomside retrofit installation so you can replace an existing fan entirely from inside the room.

Is the fan safe to install over a shower or tub?
Yes. The unit is UL listed for use over tubs and showers when installed on a GFCI-protected circuit.

How loud is the fan in normal use?
The fan is rated at 2.0 sones, which most users find acceptable but not ultra-quiet; some reviewers report mixed impressions on noise.