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Are Attic Fans Good or Bad?

Many homeowners hear about attic fans installed by friends and neighbors and want to know if an attic fan is a good idea or just a waste of money.  And since the roof must be penetrated for some attic fan installations, there is concern about that it may lead to water damage.  In short, are attic fans good or bad? Let’s discuss the primary concern homeowners have about attic fan installation.  The we will look at the major benefits of attic fans.

Will Water Damage Result?

Let’s address the potential for water damage first.  Your roof probably already has vents or chimneys in it, and it’s likely that no water damage is occurring.  With a little care and the right materials it is quite easy to make sure that water cannot seep into the roof.  A qualified contractor will not have any trouble making the seams water-tight.  Even most homeowners with good DIY skills will be able to install an attic fan so that no water gets where it shouldn’t.  Water damage is rarely a factor where attic fans are installed.  If you are still concerned, consider gable-mounted attic fans rather than roof-mounted attic fans.  They are also very effective and there should be no concern about water damage with them.

Are Attic Fans Helpful?

If you’re going to install an attic fan, you want to make sure it will be a benefit to your home.  There are many benefits of attic fans.  These include the following.

1. Attic fans reduce heat dramatically.  The temperature in attics without attic fans can climb to as high as 150 degrees F.  With an attic fan, many attics have a temperature that is the same as the outside air, or just a few degrees warmer.  This is important, because excess heat in the attic will cause damage to roofing material and to the home’s siding.  Shingles will cup and become ineffective, putting your roof at serious risk for water damage.  Siding may actually warp and need to be replaced.

2. Attic fans reduce moisture in your attic.  The negative consequences of moisture make for a long list.  Rafters and roof sheathing may rot or become delaminated (i.e., fall apart).  Moisture will penetrate wood siding and literally peel paint.  Moisture produces mold.  It also attracts pests like termites and carpenter ants that seek out moist wood.

3. Attic fans make your home more comfortable.  Heat can push down into your home, making it very uncomfortable, especially if your attic isn’t properly insulated.  Studies have shown that energy costs in a home with an attic fan can be up to 30% lower.

4. You have the choice of electric attic fans or solar attic fans.  Electric fans are more powerful  and use very little energy.  Solar fans require no energy other than the sun, so there is no cost of operation.

 

Conclusion

Poor ventilation in the attic will eventually lead to many problems for your home.  These problems can be very expensive, too. Most home maintenance experts highly recommend the installation of an attic fan in independent attic fan reviews.  They specify their ability to lengthen the life of building materials, lower energy costs, and reduce the potential for harmful pests, mold, mildew and related problems.

Attic fans prices are also quite affordable and can also save the homeowner significant costs over the years in the form of lowered energy bills and fewer home repairs.  If you choose an attic fan, hire a qualified contractor to install it for best performance.  They will know where to locate the fan so that it will remove excess heat and moisture most effectively.

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