- Solar Attic Fans – How They Work. Solar attic fans work by pulling in the cold air from the soffits and pushing out the hot air that has accumulated at ...
- Attic Fan Savings Claims. Finding monthly savings claims was actually VERY difficult. ...
- Arguments Against Solar Attic Fans. ...
- Concluding on Solar Attic Fans. ...
Do attic ventilation fans really work?
Based on our industry experience, the answer is, yes. Attic fans do really work. They will help to circulate air in your attic and ventilate the space so that it stays closer to the outside temperature. Attics can reach extremely high temperatures in hot, summer months and gather an excessive amount of moisture in the winter.
Are solar attic fans worth it?
Solar attic fans are a contentious issue. Some people claim they offer considerable energy savings and other benefits. Others aren’t so sure, pointing out drawbacks and questioning whether installing this technology in your home is a justifiable investment.
Do attic fans really help that much?
Yes, Attic fans can make a difference. They can provide a cooling effect that reduces temperature significantl y in your house. Using the simple physics principle of air circulation, it can draw in cool air while letting out the warm air. It will offer you more benefits that include: 1. Lowering Your Electricity Bill
How does a solar powered attic fan work?
- Pockets of stale air are circulated. When these zones of air are pushed to the exterior of the building, the overall air volume of the structure maintains a more consistent ...
- Circulating attic air is beneficial in the defense against mold and mildew accumulation. ...
- Solar-powered attic fans help to reduce ice damming. ...
Do solar attic fans run all the time?
Using a Solar Attic Fan Some run automatically, while others have controllers that allow you to turn the fan on and off from the comfort of your living room. Most, however, will operate automatically to remove the attic heat and keep circulation in the attic flowing.
Do solar attic fans work at night?
There are no batteries on Solar Star® Attic Fans that will store energy. Thus, they only run when daylight is available on the solar panel.
Do solar attic fans work in winter?
They are effective in both summer and winter. Your attic needs to breathe.
Do solar attic fans need electricity?
Go Green – Solar attic fans are environmentally friendly, harnessing the sun's power without the need for electricity. As a renewable energy source, your solar attic fan will help reduce your carbon footprint and help you save money in the process.
How do I know if my solar attic fan is working?
Fan blades vibrate or rock but doesn't run fast It's either early in the morning or dusk. Power is trying to go to the fan, but there is not enough power to turn the motor. Wait until the day heats up, then check it.
Do solar attic fans work on cloudy days?
The agitation becomes a direct electric current, which a transformer then changes into alternating current that can be used by an air conditioner, attic fan, water heater, indoor lights, or other electrical system in a home. So the solar panels only need light to work—and they can get light when its cloudy outside.
Are solar attic fans noisy?
Solar attic fans are usually better than electric attic fans because they're quieter, costs nothing to run, and they don't pull cold air away from your air-conditioned house.
How much does a solar attic fan reduce temperature?
40°F!That's where a motorized fan comes in. So, in summer months, a solar attic fan can reduce the temperature in an attic by up-to 40°F! Also, since the solar attic fan does not require electricity, it utilizes the sun to operate thus not costing you anything to run and also offers additional benefits.
How many solar attic fans do I need?
Solar Attic Fan Residential Unit EstimatorAttic SizeAttic Fans Needed1,600 sf(3) 16 watt OR (2) 32 watt OR (1) 48 watt2,100 sf(2) 32 watt OR (1) 48 watt2,400 sf(2) 48 watt OR (1) 65 watt3,000 sf(3) 32 watt OR (2) 48 watt OR (1) 65 watt2 more rows
How much does it cost to install a solar powered attic fan?
A single fan typically costs $300 to $600 plus an extra $100 to $150 each for installation. “ Wall mounted solar attic fans cost about $660 with average prices raning from $550 to $770 in the US for 2020, including the price of installation.
Do solar attic fans have thermostats?
Yes, there is a thermostat shipped with each fan and at NO additional cost. The thermostat is pre-set to allow the fan to come on at ~79 degrees and to turn off when the temperature dips below ~75 degrees, which is particularly desirable in cool, dry climates. We usually recommend thermostats for dry climate areas.
Are solar roof fans any good?
Other than being less noisy, a solar-powered roof vent offers better efficiency than a standard, wind-powered vent. Additionally, they carry better airflow capacity, making them more effective in ventilating homes. Just make sure to have a professional install your solar vent.
Is solar or electric attic fan better?
Electric attic fans are more powerful and cheaper than solar attic fans, but they consume a lot of power. If you do choose to use an electric attic fan, consider one with a thermostat (an almost standard feature) and set it for 130ºF or above.
How long do solar attic fans last?
Solar attic fans last around 20 years long on average, in our experience, as that's what a typical solar panel will last for (5). However, some units from manufacturers like Remington Solar can last for much longer. They offer a lifelong warranty on their solar attic fans' parts (labor not included) (6).
Are solar attic vents worth it?
A solar roof vent can help you cut energy bills by as much as 30 percent. These cost-effective, environmentally-friendly fixtures are a smart way to keep the attic temperatures at optimal levels. And since they're solar-powered, they utilize free energy helping you save money all year round.
Are solar attic fans noisy?
Attic fans are great machines that can bring some refreshment by blowing out hot air. Even though we all enjoy attic fans, they are mechanical devices and sometimes they can be quite noisy and annoying. So, if you are an attic fan lover, you should be prepared for some extra noise in your home.
What Is A Solar Attic Fan?
A solar attic fan is an overhead fan that is designed to help circulate attic air. Solar attic fans are powered by the sun and are a unique and progressive addition to any home or business. There are many benefits to installing a solar attic fan, but there are also some disadvantages as well. Read below to learn more about the benefits of solar attic fans, and how exactly these fans work.
Do solar attic fans cool down?
Another great PRO about solar attics fans is that they cool down your attic space. Cooling down your attic is the best way to keep your home cool too. The more hot air you keep out of the attic – The more hot air you keep out of your home. This will also keep the attic free from dust and dirt. Solar attic fans will keep your home’s ambient temperature low to reduce cooling costs.
Is solar attic fan more expensive?
Solar attic fans are also generally less expensive and easier to install than full ventilation systems. They require less time and a less invasive installation process than these other systems do.
What is the difference between a solar attic fan and a passive vent?
Passive vents (soffit or gable) allow some circulation but do not provide the pressure needed to force out the hot air. 2. Solar Attic Fan Provides Air Circulation.
What moves hot air out of the attic?
3. Air Circulation Moves Hot Air Out Of Attic Space
Why is venting in the attic important?
Attic Venting Key Concepts. Attic ventilation is an important aspect of maintaining the structure of your home as well as saving energy. Improper attic venting can lead to moisture buildup that can cause mold growth and also cause wood rot.
Where should air vents be located in the attic?
In an ideal venting system, air should enter the attic from the eaves or soffits and escape outside at the roofs ridge. If you’ve ever been in your attic, you know just hot the space can get, especially in summer months. The sun beats down on the roof surface and heats up the stagnant air inside the attic.
Does passive ventilation work in attic?
Building codes require homes to have a passive vent system. But, passive ventilation does not provide the pressure needed to force the air through the attic and outside. That’s where a motorized fan comes in.
How Are Solar Attic Fans Different?
Compared to electric-type fans, solar attic fans work on renewable energy. So, they are eco-friendly, and you do not have to worry about your home’s carbon footprint.
How Are Attic Fans Powered?
However, some are powered by the kinetic force of the wind.
How does a solar attic fan work?
Solar attic fans work by pulling in the cold air from the soffits and pushing out the hot air that has accumulated at the top of the attic. This is basically how air naturally moves: cold air is at the bottom, and warm air is at the top. The attic fan just helps the air move more which adds cooler air circulation.
How long does it take to make a return on investment for an attic breeze solar attic fan?
This is the Attic Breeze Energy Savings Calculator! Based on the averages I put in ( see my screenshot), it will take 4-7 years for me to theoretically make the return on investment of an attic breeze solar attic fan.
What are baffles in a soffit?
Baffles are pieces of cardboard that basically prohibit insulation movement over certain areas. This will protect the soffits from getting clogged with insulation so soffits can properly breathe. You can check out this article from EnergyStar.Gov that explains the importance of baffles with attic fans.
What camera did Matt and his friend use to show how conditioned air is lost through the ceilings?
Basically, Matt and his friend partnered with a Flir (thermography) camera, show how conditioned air is lost through the ceilings.
Is an attic fan a good idea?
In my mind, attic fans seem like a great idea and have a great pitch, but in reality, you would be better off spending your money in other places.
How do attic fans work?
In the summer, a properly installed attic fan can remove excessive heat build up, providing cooling to an attic space. This helps reduce the pressure on your insulation systems, preventing unwanted heat transfer into your living space. This ultimately makes your home feel cooler, while also alleviating the work that your air conditioning system needs to put forth. In the winter, attic fans can also make a big difference by removing heat and moisture that escapes from the home. This helps prevent things like mold growth and ice damming.
What Are Attic Fans?
Before we tell you all about these fans, let’s talk about what they actually are.
Why is an attic fan important?
In general, a high-quality attic fan can provide ongoing active ventilation to protect your, support insulation systems, and help provide some cooling benefits in certain climates.
Why do attic fans cost less?
Because attic fans take away some of the work that your air conditioning would be doing, you will spend less on running your air conditioning. However, running an electric fan in attics could mean the cost just goes towards the attics rather than the air conditioner.
How long does a solar attic fan last?
Your fan will run 12 months of the year without costing you a dime after installation. Read our review on the best solar attic fans.
How to reduce air conditioning in attic?
By cooling down your attic, you can decrease your air conditioning. Your air conditioner is currently having to work against the sauna that is sitting on top of your living space. Give it a hand by cooling your home’s upper space to outdoor temperatures before your turn up the AC. Cool down a second story in your home.
How hot is the attic?
As attics reach 150-160 degrees, much hotter than it even is outside, this can warm your house overall. You can even take your own attic’s temperature to see how hot yours is. Alternatively, you can schedule an attic inspection to get more detailed insights from thermal imaging tools.
How much air does a solar attic fan blow?
One solar attic fan is expected to push around 800 to 1200 CFM of air, and a 1000-square-feet attic needs at least 700 CFM. For attics with steep or darker roofs, the CFM requirement is 15% higher.
How much does it cost to install a solar attic fan?
Compared to alternative types of attic fans, the cost of getting a solar attic fan is high. On average, you can sell a solar attic fan for $300 to $600. Then if you cannot install it yourself, you may have to shelve out $150 to $300 for installation. In total, you may spend $450 to $900 to get a solar attic fan and install it.
Is a Solar or Electric Attic Fan Better?
The better choice between solar attic fans and electric attic fans depends on the user. Electrical attic fans are better because they offer stronger cooling (they are typically rated 800 to 1600 CFM). But this comes at a price – electric attic fans consume a lot of power, so your heating and cooling bills may rise. Conversely, solar attic fans are powered by the sun, which is free to use.
How high can a solar attic fan be?
Solar attic fans usually have CFM ratings up to 1200 CFM. But a traditional attic fan such as an electric attic fan can have a rating as high as 1600 CFM. This means that solar attic fans cannot push air out of the attic, and electric attic fans can.
What happens when you heat up the attic?
Attic Insulation. When attic insulation is not efficient, hot air will move between the home’s interior and the attic. In warmer seasons, the hot air will rise into the attic. Then in winter, it will radiate towards the house. In both cases, it will undermine the effectiveness of the solar attic fan.
How much does it cost to have more than one solar fan in your attic?
So, if you are getting two, for instance, your total expenses may shoot up to $750 to $1500. Then in some jurisdictions, you might incur some extra costs due to the rules.
What happens when snow melts on a roof?
Then when the melted snow refreezes, it will form ice at the edge of the roof. As more snow melts, the ice at the roof’s edge holds the water back like a dam. This water retention may then damage the sheathing and walls of the home. In the presence of an attic fan, it would prevent this.
Pros
If you’re considering buying a solar attic fan, they have many outstanding qualities. In the debate between solar attic fans pros and cons, here are the bright spots.
Cons
Solar attic fans have many advantages, but they do have some problems. When you look at solar attic fans pros and cons, here are the negative aspects of these machines.
FAQs
When asking, “Which is better?” between a solar or electric fan, the answer depends on the situation, as there are pros and cons to each.
Why do attic fans stop working?
If a cloud blocks the sunlight, the fans slow or stop. As the sun gets lower in the sky -- when attic temperatures are at their greatest -- the fans slow down. You need the fans to be operating at full speed late in the day and into the evening to bring air into the attic to cool all the lumber as rapidly as possible.
How to lower the temperature in your attic?
If you want to lower the temperature in your attic a considerable amount, you need to do what chicken farmers do. They move tens of thousands of CFM through the barns where the chickens are living. Some of the high-speed fans have blades larger than four feet in diameter!
How does a vent pipe work?
Vent pipes supply air into your plumbing system. Each time water drains through the pipes on its way to the sewer or septic tank it pushes air out of the way in the drain pipes. This air needs to be replaced and the best way is to grab it from the atmosphere above your home.
Do plumbers have to install mechanical vents?
The plumbing codes in certain places allow mechanical vents at or under certain fixtures so plumbers don't have to install all the vent pipes. I'm not a fan of these shortcut devices because they have moving parts. Anything with a moving part fails at some point. I routinely get email from people with sewer gas odor in their homes from failed mechanical vents.
