Solar-powered attic fan

However, the effectiveness of attic fans, including solar models, in reducing air conditioning costs is still

controversial (Krigger 2004; Shiras and Richter 2009). One situation where attic fans may not be

effective is when air is blown out of the attic and cool air out of the living area is pulled through the attic

floor. This may happen where there are not adequate openings in soffit vents to supply the fan with

enough air, resulting in a pressure imbalance between the interior of the house and the attic. The

building envelope should be sealed adequately enough to prevent negative pressure events or

exfiltration from the interior of the house. When the attic floor is properly sealed, attic fans are more

capable of reducing heat buildup. According to (Chiras, 2004), wired-in ventilation fans save about 10 %

in air conditioning costs by keeping the attic space cooler, but use electricity. (Tooley and Davis, 1994)

indicate energy use penalties with powered ventilators in houses with adequate ceiling insulation,

suggesting that powered ventilators use more electricity than they save. The new interest in proper

ventilation for buildings and houses has created a large market globally for products such as solar

powered attic ventilation fans. This demand represents real economic potential for manufacturers of

these products.

Krigger, J. (2004). Residential energy: cost savings and comfort for existing buildings. Saturn Resource

Management, Inc.

Shiras, D., Richter, J. (2009). Money matters: does an RE system make economic sense? Home Power.

Chiras, D. D. (2004). The new ecological home: the complete guide to green building options, Chelsea

Green Publishing.