Key Takeaways:

  • An attic fan can help reduce your home’s overall energy consumption by keeping your attic cool.
  • It can lead to lower energy bills and money saving in the long term.
  • This also helps prevent heat damage to your home.
  • Attic fans can cost anywhere between $369 and $877.
  • A roofing contractor can adequately install an attic fan to ensure you don’t have to bear unnecessary expenses.

 

Suppose you’re thinking of installing an attic ventilation fan. In that case, fortunately, there are many benefits of installing attic fans, and they can be beneficial for maintaining a healthy home environment. However, before you decide, you must understand these fans’ pros and cons.

You should consult a residential roofing contractor to discuss your attic maintenance needs and upgrades. Let’s look at some vital information, including the benefits and drawbacks of attic ventilation fans, so you can decide whether one is right for your home.

What Are Attic Fans?

An attic fan is a mechanical device that helps to ventilate and cool your attic space. These fans are usually installed near the roof’s peak in the ceiling. Attic fans draw hot air out of the attic and push it outside. It helps keep your attic cooler, protecting your home from heat damage and reducing energy costs.

There are two main types of attic fans: solar-powered and electric. Solar-powered fans are powered by sunlight, while electric fans run on electricity from your home’s power supply. Solar-powered fans are more expensive than electric fans. Still, they may be a good option if you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly solution.

Pros Of Installing Attic Fans

They Can Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency.

An attic fan can help reduce your home’s overall energy consumption by keeping your attic cool. It can lead to lower energy bills and money saving in the long term.

They Can Protect Your Home from Heat Damage.

An attic fan can help to prevent heat damage to your home by keeping the temperature in the attic cooler. It helps prolong the life of your roof and other materials in your attic.

They Can Reduce Condensation and Mold Growth.

Attic fans can reduce condensation and mold growth in your attic by decreasing the amount of moisture.

It can significantly improve the air quality in your home and make it a healthier place to live. However, it’s advised that you get regular attic maintenance to keep it that way.

Here are some more signs of attic damage that you need to watch out for.

They Can Be Inexpensive for Some Homes.

The cost of an attic fan will vary depending on the size and type of fan you choose. However, they can be relatively inexpensive for some homes.

They Require Little Maintenance.

Attic fans require very little maintenance once they are installed. You will need to occasionally clean the fan’s blades and ensure that the vents are clear.

Cons Of Attic Fans

They Can Cause Drafts.

If your attic fan is not correctly sealed, it can cause drafts in your home. It makes your home feel colder in the winter and warmer in the summer.

They Cannot Replace an Air Conditioning Unit.

An attic fan will only partially replace an air conditioning unit. They are designed to supplement your cooling system, not replace it.

Your Home Needs to Have Adequate Ventilation.

For an attic fan to be effective, your home must be appropriately ventilated. It means that there must be vents in the eaves of your house, and the soffits must be open.

You Need to Have a Clear Path for The Air to Flow.

The attic fan will only work if there is a clear path for the air to flow. You need to have enough vents in your attic, and they need to be unobstructed.

They Can Be Noisy

Attic fans can be pretty noisy when they are running. This noise can be quite bothersome if you have a bedroom near your attic.

Adherence With Local Roofing Codes

Before installing an attic fan, you must ensure it adheres to your local roofing codes. If it does not, you could be fined.

You Need to Have a Contractor Install It.

Attic fans can be challenging to install, especially if you don’t have experience with home electrical work. If you’re looking to install an attic fan, you’ll need to hire a residential roofing contractor to do it for you.

It’s because attic fans need to be installed the first time correctly. Re-installing them can be an expensive endeavor that you would want to avoid.

Things To Consider Before Getting Attic Fans Installed

The Cost of The Fan and Installation

Attic fans can cost anywhere between $369 and $877. The cost is based on the size of the fan, the brand, and where you purchase it. If you need help installing the fan, you will also have to factor in the cost of hiring a residential roofing contractor.

The Type of Attic Fan

There are two types of attic fans: gable-mounted and whole-house. Gable-mounted fans are installed in your roof’s gable (the triangular portion). Whole-house fans are installed on your attic floor and pull air through all the vents in your house.

The Size of Your Attic

You will need to know the square footage of your attic to purchase the correct size fan. Most manufacturers will have a sizing chart on their website that you can reference.

The Climate You Live In

If you live in an area with hot weather, you will need a more powerful attic fan to cool your home. Conversely, if you live in a cooler climate, you can get away with a less powerful fan.

What Are the Different Kinds of Attic Fans?

Solar-Powered Attic Fans

These are the most popular type of attic fans. They are also the most energy-efficient type of attic fan. Solar-powered attic fans use the sun’s energy to power the fan, which helps to keep your home cool in the summer and can also help to reduce your energy bills.

Battery-Powered Attic Fans

Another type of attic fan is a battery-powered attic fan. These fans are less familiar than solar-powered fans. However, they are still an option for those who want an attic fan without having access to sunlight or a power outlet.

Reasons To Choose a Professional Residential Roofing Contractor.

When it comes to something as crucial as your roof, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. A residential roofing contractor has experience with attic maintenance procedures. They can adequately install an attic fan to ensure you don’t have to bear any unnecessary expenses later. They can also help you choose the right attic fan for your home and individual needs.

Absolute Roofing and Construction, Inc has provided a vast range of commercial and residential roofing services in Parm, OH, since 1987. If you want to complete a roofing project, get a free estimate today!