Can You Install a Gable Fan in a Garage?

Types

• Various types of gable-mounted attic fans can be used over a garage. The most common type of gable fan is one that simply runs on electricity and must be connected to the home's electrical supply. However, some companies offer these fans in solar-powered models as well. Solar panels can be installed directly onto the roof with these types of gable fans. Some gable fans can even be installed on the outside of the gable when there is little or no attic space available for installation.

Energy Efficiency

• The advantage of using a gable fan in the garage is that it can be an effective method for removing excess heat from the attic space above the garage. If the garage is climate-controlled, this will help increase the energy efficiency of the heating and cooling unit. For garages that have no attic space, however, the gable fan can have a direct cooling effect. Warm or hot air is removed from the ceiling or roof space near the top of the garage. This can lower the temperature in the garage on hot days.

Moisture Control

• Another reason to install a gable fan in the garage attic is to provide moisture control and increase the life of the roofing materials. Whenever there is a significant temperature difference between the outside air and air directly beneath the roof, this can cause condensation. This moisture can collect on the bottom side of the underlayment of the roof and cause the roofing material to deteriorate from the inside out.

Installation

• Installation of a gable fan is fairly simple and a job that can be completed by novice do-it-yourselfers. You first have to ensure there is an electrical supply in the attic of the garage, which you can do by tapping into an existing circuit. Verify that your circuit can handle the fan's energy demands by checking the amperage of the fan before installing it. If you're using a solar-powered fan, this will not be necessary. The fan can easily be mounted over a louvered opening in the gable by adding 2-by-4 boards as horizontal braces between the studs. Finally, connect the electrical supply and turn it back on to run the fan.