Attics are not new to people; homes with such triangle rooflines are usually most preferred by buyers. If you are amongst the people looking to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, switching to attic fans can be quite convenient. To those who are not aware of what these are? Well, attic fans are basically designed to push hot air out of your attic. This reduces pressure on your home’s air conditioning, making the vibe comfortable. Not to be confused, attic fans are not just beneficial for summers; they are a holistic investment covering even your winters!
Here, we cover almost everything, from attic fan installation to its usage; keep reading!
The Basic Need Of Attic Fans For Homes
You likely understand why attic ventilation is so important if you’ve ever spent time in your attic in the midst of the summer.
The accumulation of heat in your attic can cause a number of issues, such as greater energy expenses and even harm to your roof. If you install an attic fan, your home will be cooler, its outside will be protected, and your energy costs will go down.
How do attic fans work?
Attic fans function by removing warm air from your attic and directing it outside, which can help lower the temperature in both your attic and the rest of your house. As a result of the fan’s creation of negative pressure in your attic, colder exterior air is drawn into your home through attic vents and other openings. Resulting in a constant flow of air that helps control the temperature in your attic and avoid ice damming in the winter.
Types of Attic Fans
Basically, there are two types of attic fans:
| Mechanical Attic Fans | Natural Attic Fans |
| Type: Electrically powered attic fans | Type: Wind-powered attic fans |
| Control: Equipped with thermostats or humidistats | Control: No electrical components or automation |
| Operation: Automatically turn on/off based on settings | Operation: Rely on the wind to create airflow |
| Energy: Require electricity for operation | Energy: Operate without electricity |
| Consistency: Maintain consistent attic ventilation | Consistency: Variable airflow depending on wind |
When exactly should you use an attic fan?
The hotter months of the year, usually late spring, summer, and early fall, are when you should utilize an attic fan the most because your attic tends to build up too much heat during those times.
Do attic fans require professional installation, or can they be self-installed?
Homeowners with DIY abilities and knowledge of electrical work, roofing, and attic ventilation can install attic fans themselves. But getting them installed by a professional can be more efficient. Ineffective ventilation, roof damage, and electrical and fire dangers can all result from improper installation. A professional can guarantee safe and effective attic fan installation, electrical connections, and compatibility with existing attic ventilation systems.
Are attic fans noisy?
Well, they can make noise depending on the quality of the attic fans you are using. Here, we suggest some to-dos if your attic fans are making noise.
- If the screws are loose, tighten them.
- To reduce the friction, you can change the bearings, which are probably worn out over time. Replacing bearings can help with lubrication and smooth cycling of your attic fans.
- Sometimes, the fans are not balanced, which results in clanking sounds. Balancing the blades can lower the internal pressure and thus reduce the noise.
Wrapping Up
Quality life comes with making small changes in your home and, ultimately, lifestyle. Attic fan installation can be one such decision.
Never underestimate the cooling power of an attic fan when you’re in a situation where everything is working against you, and it looks like you won’t be able to hold on for much longer.
