Ventilation FansIn-Line Single-Port
S&P RF10-160EC-P Ventilation Fan Manual
Setup, everyday use, maintenance and troubleshooting for the 170 CFM in-line ventilation fan, with verified specifications.
- Airflow170 CFM
- Efficacy5.2 CFM/W
- Duct size6 in. round
About the S&P RF10-160EC-P
This guide covers the S&P RF10-160EC-P, a 170 CFM in-line ventilation fan on the ENERGY STAR certified list. It belongs to the Refresh line.
It has rated airflow settings of 30, 100, and 170 CFM (three or more speeds). It connects to a 6 in. round duct.
Fan efficacy is 5.2 CFM per watt, which means the motor draws roughly 33 W at 170 CFM. That efficacy is higher than 53% of the 74 In-Line Single-Port models in our database.
Specifications
| Brand | S&P |
|---|---|
| Model number | RF10-160EC-P |
| Model name / series | Refresh |
| Fan type | In-Line Single-Port |
| Rated airflow | 170 CFM |
| Fan efficacy | 5.2 CFM/W |
| Second airflow setting | 100 CFM |
| Efficacy at second setting | 6.9 CFM/W |
| Third airflow setting | 30 CFM |
| Efficacy at third setting | 5.6 CFM/W |
| Number of speeds | 3 or more |
| Duct connection (round) | 6.0 in. |
| Integrated light | No |
| ENERGY STAR Most Efficient | No |
Safety information
- Turn off power at the circuit breaker before installing, wiring or cleaning the fan, and confirm it is off with a non-contact voltage tester.
- Install and wire the fan in accordance with the instructions and local electrical and building codes. If you are unsure, hire a licensed electrician or HVAC contractor.
- Always duct the fan to the outdoors. Never terminate exhaust in an attic, crawl space, soffit vent or wall cavity — trapped moisture and grease cause mold, rot and fire risk.
- Mount the in-line fan to solid framing in an accessible location so it can be inspected and serviced, and keep it away from insulation that could block the motor housing.
- Do not use the fan to exhaust explosive or flammable vapors.
Installation and first-time setup
- Plan the system
In-line fans mount in the duct run — usually in an attic or basement — away from living spaces, which keeps them quiet. This single-port model connects to one intake duct, which can be fed by one or more grilles.
- Mount the fan
Fasten the fan to framing with the supplied brackets, using vibration isolators if provided, and leave access for service.
- Connect the ducts
Attach 6 in. round duct to the inlet and outlet collars with clamps or foil tape, observing the airflow arrow on the housing. Use insulated duct through unconditioned spaces.
- Wire the controls
Connect power and the wall control, timer or humidity control specified by the manufacturer. Many in-line fans are used for continuous whole-house ventilation at a low setting.
- Test
Run the fan and confirm airflow at each intake grille and that the exterior damper opens.
Using your ventilation fan
Continuous and boost operation
In-line fans are often run continuously at a low setting for whole-house ventilation, with a boost to a higher setting from a timer or humidity control when bathrooms are in use. This model offers 30, 100, and 170 CFM settings.
Care and maintenance
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Every 3–6 months | Remove the grille (it usually unclips with spring wires), wash it in warm, soapy water and vacuum dust from the housing and fan blades with power off. |
| Every year | Check outdoors that the damper flap opens freely and the exterior cap is clear of lint, nests and debris. |
| Every few years | Inspect accessible duct runs for disconnected joints, crushed sections or condensation. |
Troubleshooting
Weak airflow and excess noise are almost always caused by the duct system rather than the fan. Turn off power at the breaker before removing the grille or touching the motor.
| Problem | Possible cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Fan runs but moves little air | Damper stuck closed; duct crushed, disconnected or too long; dirty grille or filter. | Check the exterior damper and cap, inspect the duct, and clean the grille or filters. |
| Louder than expected | Restrictive or undersized duct; loose grille; housing not secured. | Use duct at least as large as the collar (6 in. round), tighten the grille and mounting screws. |
| Rattling or flapping sound | Backdraft damper fluttering in wind; loose duct. | Secure the duct and check that the damper closes fully; a wall cap with a better damper may help. |
| Water dripping from the grille | Condensation in an uninsulated duct; duct sloped back toward the fan. | Insulate the duct in unheated spaces and slope it toward the exterior. |
| Fan will not start | Breaker off; switch or timer failed; motor plug loose in the housing. | Check the breaker, test the switch, and with power off confirm the motor is plugged into its receptacle. |
| Cold drafts from the fan when off | Damper not closing; unsealed housing. | Free or replace the damper and seal around the housing. |
Energy use and running costs
Ventilation fan certification lists airflow and efficacy rather than annual energy use. From 170 CFM at 5.2 CFM/W, the S&P RF10-160EC-P draws roughly 33 W. The table estimates yearly use at an average electricity price of $0.17 per kWh.
| Scenario | Power | Energy per year | Cost per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boost, 2 h/day | 33 W | 23.9 kWh | $4.06 |
| Continuous at 30 CFM, 24 h/day | 5 W | 47 kWh | $7.98 |
The motor is only part of the cost: every cubic foot exhausted is replaced by outdoor air that must be heated or cooled. Run the fan as long as needed to clear moisture, then let a timer or humidity control switch it off — unless it is providing intended continuous ventilation.
Frequently asked questions
How many CFM is the S&P RF10-160EC-P?
It is rated at 170 CFM, with airflow settings of 30, 100, and 170 CFM.
What size duct does the S&P RF10-160EC-P need?
It has a 6 in. round duct connection. Use duct at least that size all the way to the exterior cap; reducing it cuts airflow and raises noise.
How much electricity does the S&P RF10-160EC-P use?
With an efficacy of 5.2 CFM/W it draws roughly 33 W at 170 CFM. Running one hour a day costs about $2.03 a year at $0.17/kWh.
Does the S&P RF10-160EC-P have a light?
No. The certified configuration does not include a light.
Sources and disclaimer
Specifications on this page come from the ENERGY STAR certified ventilation fans dataset published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (record certified April 26, 2018), retrieved October 7, 2026.
The setup, operating, maintenance and troubleshooting guidance is written by ManualHarbor's editors for this specific product type and configuration. It is an independent guide — not a reproduction of the manufacturer's manual — and ManualHarbor is not affiliated with S&P. Always follow the safety instructions, installation requirements and warranty terms supplied with your unit, and contact S&P or an authorized service provider for warranty repairs and replacement parts.
Running-cost figures use assumed U.S. average utility prices and are estimates for comparison only. See our editorial methodology for details.
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