Proper attic venting is essential not just for maintaining a comfortable, energy efficient home but also for maintaining the very structure of your home.
Improper venting can lead to brittle shingles in summer and moisture buildup in winter, both of which can compromise the strength and durability of the roof.
Building codes require that all homes should have a passive vent system, but is that really enough?
Shortcomings Of Passive Attic Venting
While passive attic venting works well to create a continuous air flow, it only makes a significant impact when there is a breeze blowing. On humid, airless summer days when there is no breeze, the hot air in the attic builds up, making it impossibly hot and stuffy. This excessive buildup of heat puts additional load on the air conditioners, shortening their life and racking up the energy bills. In winter, the insufficient venting and resultant moisture buildup causes mold growth and wood rot.
The Difference That Solar Attic Fans Make
Solar attic fans work actively to eliminate the heat build-up in the attic by drawing hot air out. This will force fresh air from outside through the intake vents into the attic. The benefits of this little addition are manifold:
- Reduced heat buildup, which can bring down the temperature in the attic by as much as 40°F on a hot summer’s day
- Improved air circulation
- A more comfortable indoor environment
- Reduced strain on your air conditioner
- Lower utility bills
And because solar attic fans do not run on electricity, the savings just keep adding up!