How to Use Solar & Electric Attic Fans

Solar and electric attic fans perform the same function. The difference is that one uses power you have to pay for and one uses free solar power. Attic fans have a number of uses, but the most common use is ventilation of the home's attic space. During summer months the air temperature in an attic can exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This puts a huge strain on the home's cooling system. Attic fans reduce the attic temperature by sucking the hot air from the attic and forcing the air back outside the home.

Solar attic fan
Electric attic fan

Instructions

- 1
  Read the attic fan installation instructions. These units are usually installed on the roof of the home or in one of the roof vents at the end of the home. These units pull hot air from the attic and blow it outside the home.
- 2
  Use electric units where power costs are not a problem. Also, use these types of fans where connecting the fan to the home's existing power supply is not a problem or safety hazard.
- 3
  Use a solar attic fan in energy efficient homes and in areas where AC power is not readily available. Some older homes are not wired to handle the additional power needed by an electric attic fan, so they are good candidates for solar attic fans.

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