Suppose you’re seeking more energy-efficient solutions to keep your home cosy in the winter and cool in the summer. In that case, attic fans are a possibility when an attic is well-ventilated, whether by natural ventilation or electrical ventilation. It aids in lowering summer cooling expenses and safeguards the roof’s structural integrity during harsh winters. Before you buy, install, and operate an attic fan, you should study its advantages.
What is an Attic Fan?
Attic fans, also known as power attic ventilators, are devices made to address this demand for proper attic ventilation, which is crucial for various reasons. Attic fans are ventilation devices that control the heat in a building’s attic by pulling hot air from inside and venting it outside.
The attic fans are typically switched on and off manually. Additionally, they can be connected to a switch that automatically switches the appliance off when predetermined internal temperatures are achieved. The switch is flicked in this sort of switch when a specific temperature is achieved, using the same logic as thermostats.
How does a ceiling fan operate?
An attic fan removes air from the space by being put above your living area but under your roof. It removes hot, humid air from your attic while producing a modest suction effect. It forces fresh, cool air from your basement and lower levels to rise throughout your home. By eliminating air that can support mould growth, contain allergies, and shelter pathogen-causing microbes, you are not just improving the efficiency of your HVAC system.
The temperature of your home, especially your living rooms. Your attic may become hot enough for cooking throughout the summer, topping 160 degrees. It is impacted by venting this hot air out of your attic and drawing in the cold air.
Importance of Attic Fans
Even though installing insulation and closing off your home may make it seem strange to let air into the attic intentionally. Moreover, adequate ventilation is one of the most crucial aspects of an energy-efficient home. A well-ventilated attic will naturally transport overheated air out of the space during the warmer months.
Although attic fans are crucial, there is a simpler and less expensive way to keep your attic cool and avoid mould and mildew. Consequently, it cools your house and lessens the need for pricey air conditioning. The accumulation of moisture that can harm shingles and result in mould and mildew can also be avoided with attic ventilation.
Since solar attic fans are entirely powered by free solar energy, no ongoing operating expenses or electrical hookup concerns exist. Additionally, these solar-powered attic fans continue to ventilate your attic even if the power goes out.
What is the effectiveness of solar attic fans?
Keeping your home cool during the hot months is crucial. Many people consider comfort to be keeping the air conditioning running at full blast during the sweltering summer days and nights. Attic ventilation may improve the comfort of most homes by removing excess heat. Moreover, the added benefit of cutting energy bills is a byproduct.
Why are solar attic fans cost-effective?
Your attic may reach temperatures of 150°F or more on warm summer days thanks to the sun’s infrared rays. When heat accumulates in the attic, it doesn’t remain there; instead, it leaks into the spaces below, making your living room and bedrooms uncomfortable. By lowering indoor temperatures, attic ventilation can help you use your air conditioner less frequently.
Electric fans can also lower attic temperatures, but they do not affect your energy bill. There is no parasitic power usage since solar attic fans run independently of your home’s electrical system. Your electric bill won’t increase since solar attic fans only use solar energy. Additionally, they assist you in using less energy for air conditioning because they lower the heat in your home.
What Advantages do Attic Fans Offer?
It’s primary purpose is to encourage airflow in the attic. It can offer various significant advantages and assist in lowering temperature and moisture levels.
Cooler Housing
The sun will heat the roof in hot weather, which will heat the attic. These fans draw warm air from the attic, which may help keep your home’s interior cooler. Your home may get air from a heated attic, forcing your air conditioner to run longer and harder. This can shorten your units’ lifespan and raise your power cost.
Prevents Mold Growth
Without enough circulation, moisture can build up and cause mould to spread and thrive. This is a risk in the year’s hot and cold seasons. It help prevent moisture from accumulating and, as a result, help to create environments that are less hospitable to mould by removing damp, stagnant air from the attic.
Get rid of ice damming
Attics with insufficient ventilation frequently experience it in the winter. Snow on the roof melts due to warm attic air. The water eventually drops and flows, refreezing to form ice that jams eaves and builds up along roof edges. This can result in mould growth, water damage, and structural damage to the roof, joists, drywall, and everywhere else. In some freezing climates, ice dams may harm humans severely.
Ventilation
The ventilation in the attic area is the most significant potential advantage and the main reason you would buy one. When discussing attic fans, as opposed to whole-house fans, we are only referring to ventilation in the attic and not in the main living area. The main objective is to produce a moderate attic wind. Attic ventilation may significantly impact several aspects of house comfort, including cooling, air quality, and long-term structural integrity.
Conclusion
Your attic’s ceilings have fans installed, pulling hot, humid air outside your house. A crucial component of the HVAC system, it can also be used as a method of house ventilation. During the hottest parts of the summer, the typical attic may reach temperatures above 160 degrees. Your air conditioner could be working all summer overtime when there is so much heat inside your house.
Also read: How To Select The Best Roofing Shingle for Your Home
