Pros and Cons of Solar Attic Ventilators
Solar Attic Fans, or Ventilators, have garnered quite a bit of attention over the past few years, for many good reasons! In this post, we want to take a look at the reasons you would want to add a Solar Attic Ventilator to your home, as well as the Pros and Cons or choosing to use a sunlight powered unit, versus an electric solar attic vent. If you missed our previous post the reasons to vent your attic, we encourage you to read the Benefits of Attic Ventilation.
What is a Solar Attic Ventilator?
A Solar Attic Ventilator in simple terms, is a powered attic vent fan that mounts to either the flat or sloped section of your roof, or to one of the gable ends of your roof. Once mounted, the solar fans get their energy from the sun, which makes the internal motor turn, resulting in a negative pressure that draws the hot (or cold in the winter) air from inside your attic, replacing it with ambient air from your eave or ridge vents.
Benefits of Choosing a Solar Powered Attic Fan
- No Need to run Electrical power to Attic
- 100% Energy Efficient
- Quick and Easy to Install
- Reduce Energy Costs for both Ventilation and Cooling Costs
- Increases Life and Durability of Roof Shingles by Keeping them cooler
Disadvantages of Solar Attic Vents
- Obviously, if there is limited or no Sunlight, you have no ventilation!
- Solar Fans have been known to move less Air.
- Must have Unobstructed Line of Sight to Sun. (Limits install locations)
Deals on Honeywell Solar Attic Fans
 | Honeywell Thermal Switched 12W Solar Powered Attic Fan Go Green Energy Saver | US $219.99 | Details |
 | Honeywell 527SHON100BLK 12 Watt Roof Mount Solar Powered Attic Fan | US $239.95 | Details |
Summary
Overall, the deficiencies that used to be associated with Solar Attic Ventilators are quickly disappearing! When solar units first came onto the scene, they were underpowered and moved very little air. Thanks to technology gaining ground, the units on the market today have overcome to downfall, and Solar Attic Fans are a much needed addition to any home!