Salon & Nail Bar Ventilation Calculator
Source-capture and dilution exhaust for a nail salon.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Total exhaust airflow
- 600 CFM
- Source capture total
- 400 CFM
- General dilution total
- 200 CFM
- Makeup air (90%)
- 540 CFM
Quick answer
Nail salons should combine source-capture exhaust at each station with dilution ventilation of about 25-30 CFM per station.
CFM = stations x (source capture + dilution rate)
How to use the Salon & Nail Bar Ventilation Calculator
- 1Count the number of manicure/pedicure stations.
- 2Provide dedicated source-capture exhaust at each station for acrylic and solvent fumes.
- 3Add general dilution ventilation and balance with matched makeup air.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Number of stations8
- Source capture per station50 CFM
- Dilution allowance per station25 CFM
Results
- Total exhaust airflow600 CFM
- Source capture total400 CFM
- General dilution total200 CFM
- Makeup air (90%)540 CFM
Frequently asked questions
Why is source capture so important?
It removes concentrated VOC fumes right at the point of generation before they spread through the room.
Do I need makeup air?
Yes — without it, exhaust fans will struggle and the salon will feel drafty from door infiltration.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.