Which is better: an attic fan or a whole-house fan?
A whole-house fan is better for cooling your living space by drawing in cool air from outside. An attic fan only vents hot air from the attic itself. This can help lower your air conditioning bills, but it won't directly cool your home the way a whole-house fan will.
Also, it's worth noting that many modern homes are built to be airtight for energy efficiency. An attic fan can create negative pressure, pulling your expensive conditioned air up into the attic. This makes your HVAC system work harder and wastes energy, so builders now focus on improved insulation and passive ventilation instead.
What are the benefits of installing an attic or whole-house fan?
Some of the biggest advantages of attic or whole-house fan installation include:
Lower energy bills. These fans use significantly less electricity than a central air conditioning system, which can lead to noticeable savings during warmer months.
Better indoor air quality. A whole-house fan pulls fresh air in from the outside while pushing stale, stuffy air out, helping remove allergens, pet dander, and cooking odors.
Quick and effective cooling. When the outside temperature drops in the evening, a whole-house fan can rapidly cool your home with a comfortable breeze in just a few minutes.
Longer roof lifespan. An attic fan specifically helps vent hot, moist air from your attic, preventing damage to your roof structure, insulation, and shingles over time.
Eco-friendly cooling. Because they consume less power, these fans can reduce your home’s overall carbon footprint compared to running the AC.
What should I ask before hiring a pro to install my fan?
Before hiring someone to install an attic or whole-house fan, be sure to ask your pro these questions:
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for this type of work?
Can you provide a detailed, itemized estimate covering the fan, materials, and labor?
What size and model of fan do you recommend for my home’s square footage and climate, and why?
How much experience do you have with this specific type of installation?
How long will the installation take, and what will the process involve?
What kind of structural or electrical modifications, if any, will be needed?
Do you offer a warranty on your workmanship, and what does the manufacturer's warranty cover?
What factors can impact the cost of an attic or whole-house fan?
There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:
Fan type and size: Whole-house fans are generally larger and involve a more complicated installation than standard attic fans, which can increase the price. The cost of the fan unit itself will also vary based on its size and features.
Electrical work: If a new dedicated circuit needs to be run from your electrical panel to the attic, this will likely cost more than using existing wiring.
Structural modifications: The job may require cutting and framing a new opening in your ceiling or roof. Any structural work needed to support the fan unit can increase the project's cost.
Attic accessibility: A cramped, cluttered, or hard-to-reach attic can make the installation more challenging and time-consuming, and the extra effort may be reflected in the labor cost.
Additional features: Opting for extras like multi-speed switches, remote controls, automatic timers, or insulated covers will raise the total cost of your installation.
How long does it take to install an attic or whole-house fan?
Typically, a professional can install an attic or whole-house fan within two to five hours, depending on a few factors. For example:
Electrical work: The installation may require new wiring or a dedicated circuit, which requires more time.
Structural changes: Creating and framing a new opening for the fan in your ceiling or roof takes longer than working with existing openings.
Attic accessibility: A small or cluttered attic space can slow down the installation processk.
Fan model: The size and complexity of the fan unit itself can affect how long the installation takes.
Unexpected issues: Discovering problems like hidden pipes, pests, or wood rot during the installation can cause delays.
Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.
What type of maintenance do attic or whole-house fans require?
You'll typically need to clean the blades and shutters of your attic or whole-house fan seasonally to remove dust buildup. It's also a good idea to check the belt for proper tension and wear, tightening or replacing it as needed. Annually lubricating the motor bearings can help ensure it runs smoothly and quietly for years to come.