How A Solar Attic Fan Works

1. Heat Builds Inside An improperly Vented Attic

The sun beats down on a homes’ roof and heats up the enclosed attic space. Passive vents (soffit or gable) allow some circulation but do not provide the pressure needed to force out the hot air.

2. Solar Attic Fan Provides Air Circulation

The photovoltaic panel of the solar attic fan collects sunlight that powers the fans motor to increase air movement.

3. Air Circulation Moves Hot Air Out Of Attic Space

The increased air circulation provides the pressure needed to force out the hot air from your attic. Attic venting can cool your attic space by up to 40 degrees!

Attic Venting Key Concepts

Attic ventilation is an important aspect of maintaining the structure of your home as well as saving energy. Improper attic venting can lead to moisture buildup that can cause mold growth and also cause wood rot. The key to proper attic ventilation is to create continuous air circulation throughout the attic space while preventing moisture from entering. In an ideal venting system, air should enter the attic from the eaves or soffits and escape outside at the roofs ridge.

Solar Attic Fans Work With Your Existing Passive Vents

If you’ve ever been in your attic, you know just hot the space can get, especially in summer months. The sun beats down on the roof surface and heats up the stagnant air inside the attic. Building codes require homes to have a passive vent system. But, passive ventilation does not provide the pressure needed to force the air through the attic and outside. That’s where a motorized fan comes in. An attic fan placed at the roofs ridge will pull air in from outside, force it to move through the entire attic space and escape through the attic vent.

Solar Attic Fans Operate Using Free Solar Energy

A solar attic fan is a simple way to add a motorized venting system to your home without needing any extra electrical wiring or structural changes. Natural Light Solar Attic Fans are manufactured using high-impact photovoltaic solar panels to power the fan for free all during the day. The units are fully operation right out of the box and install in less than an hour. Natural Light Solar Attic Fans are available in 4 model sizes to accommodate any attic space – 12, 24, 36, or 60 watts. They are also available in 3 mounting types: roof, curb or gable.

5 Reasons To Install Solar-Powered Attic Fans On Your Home

When you think “rooftop solar,” panels usually come to mind. However, there’s another type of solar you might want to consider installing on your roof.

Solar attic fans are small, standalone rooftop ventilation devices powered by the sun. Like other attic fans, they help cool your attic in the summer and address wintertime condensation issues. Yet you might be surprised to learn that solar-powered attic fans actually work better than their conventional, line-driven counterparts.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of solar attic fans.

Improve Home Comfort

By improving ventilation and moving hot, stuffy air out of your attic, solar attic fans work to lower your attic temperature by up to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps keep the rooms below your attic — and their occupants — cool. Be aware that conventional electric fans can sometimes pull dangerous fumes and carbon monoxide from basement or ground-level gas appliances up through your home. The gentler air-moving capacity of solar fans keeps your attic pressure at a safe level while still providing effective airflow.

Save Energy

Removing excess attic heat reduces your HVAC load so your air conditioner doesn’t have to run as often. But did you know that running conventional attic fans often consumes more energy than they save? Solar fans use energy from the sun, so you’ll reduce your consumption of fossil fuel and your carbon footprint.

Protect Your Roof

In the summer, excessive heat buildup in an attic can damage asphalt shingles. In cold weather, the attic is a place where moisture often condenses. This can cause all sorts of moisture-related damage, including rot, mold or mildew. If you notice that metal objects left in your attic tend to rust, it’s a good indication you could benefit from installing solar attic fans. Finally, proper attic ventilation helps prevent ice damming along your eaves and the potential damage it can cause.

Save Money

Many of the above benefits will directly or indirectly save you money. While the energy savings from using a solar attic fan are typically moderate, consider the value of protecting your roof and prolonging the life span of your air-conditioning unit. Also, keep in mind that home and business owners can still receive a 30 percent federal tax credit for renewable energy units — including solar fans — installed through 2019.

Quiet

Many people dislike fans because of the noise. If you are one of these people, you can breathe easy: Solar fans are whisper-quiet and won’t keep you up at night. In fact, they don’t even run at night!

Need a Solar Fan Installed?

Solar attic fans are relatively simple to install. Though they require making a roof penetration, so if you’re not absolutely sure of your ability to install proper roof flashing (or if you’re concerned about the risk of working in a rooftop environment) why not give us a call?

It takes us only a very short time to install fans on your roof so you can start enjoying the benefits of solar attic fans right away

The Perks of Solar Powered Attic Fans

If you have an upstairs bonus room or bedroom that gets uncomfortably hot in summer, consider adding a solar powered fan to your attic. Solar or PV fans run on sun power and pull superheated air out of your attic to be replaced by cooler outside air. This reduces the amount of work your HVAC system has to do to cool your upstairs living area.

Principal research scientist Danny Parker of the Florida Solar Energy Center has tested solar attic fans and says, “the gable-end models work the best, since they move considerably more air than roof-mounted mushroom top units.”

You can install PV fans yourself if you have good carpentry skills, but it’s not necessarily an easy job. “You have to cut holes in your roof, so you need to make sure you aren’t cutting into anything important,” says Danny.

You should also have some experience installing flashing to keep moisture out; if you live in a storm-prone area that regularly experiences driving rain, think twice about installing at all.

Solar Is Safer

The effectiveness and safety of attic fans is a debated subject, but studies show that standard line-powered fans actually cost more to operate than they generate in savings. And they can create zones of negative pressure, which risks pulling conditioned air from the house into the attic and the dangerous possibility of pulling gases from combustion appliances back into the house — namely, carbon monoxide.

Since solar-powered fans don’t draw nearly as much air as line-powered fans, neither of those concerns comes into play. Plus, a PV fan doesn’t cost anything to operate once it’s in place.

Do the Math

Energy Star-rated solar attic fans still qualify for a federal tax credit of 30 percent of your purchase and installation costs. A single fan typically costs $300 to $600 plus an extra $100 to $150 each for installation. “But you’ll likely need two fans to make an impact,” says Danny. “Possibly three if your house has more than 1,600 square feet of air-conditioned floor area.”

Danny’s tests of solar attic fans showed that in Florida, where there’s abundant solar energy, yearly savings from installing two fans in a house with just over 1,000 square feet of air-conditioned floor area amounted to only 460 kWh. Depending on what your utility charges, that’s about $40 per year. Even if you install it yourself and take the tax credit, it could still take you 15 years or more to recoup your investment.

“It’s really more about comfort,” says Danny. “Solar powered fans can make a real difference if you regularly use the space adjacent to your attic. I also use a gable-end fan above my garage that makes the space noticeably cooler.”

If your primary motivation is saving money on your utility bill, you’re likely better off choosing a different attic-related project: installing a radiant barrier, upgrading to R-38 insulation if you don’t have it or even switching to a white roof in a cooling-dominated climate.

The Best Solar Attic Fans for 2020

What is the best solar attic fan? Finding the right one for your needs can be really time-consuming. When you search online, you will find more than a hundred of choices to pick from and compare.

For help, you might want to read a buying guide outlining the things to look for and features to check. Today, we’re also highlighting brands and their best offerings for a solar ventilating fan. With information, you will be able to make an informed choice on the attic fan that works for your needs.

Finding the right ventilator fan, you will be able to get the full benefits including energy savings and lower cooling cost. You can also rest assured that you can use it for a longer time. If you’re ready, let’s begin.

Best Solar Attic Fan Reviews

1. Natural Light Solar Attic Fan

Made in the USA
Quality components
25-year warranty
Energy saving and effective operation
Efficient for getting hot air and moisture out

Not for side wall mounting or flat roofs

Attics can get really hot in the summer. They are also prone to having high temperatures especially in hot places. For this reason, homeowners worry about high cooling costs, which comprise a huge percentage of energy spending for most households. That is why they’re on the lookout for solar powered attic fan with thermostat.

With or without a thermostat, these attic fans are valuable additions to any home or property. They can help in saving energy cost for every household. One of those now in demand in this category is the Natural Light Solar Attic Fan.

This attic fan, which is a 36W model, is big time in benefits to offer. It is so easy to install on different types of roofs, including fiberglass, shingle or asphalt. In addition, it is good for attic ventilation, one of its huge benefits not to miss.

Natural Light is a rising solar attic fan brand, which is tried and tested by builders. They are built with top quality and in the USA. As said, it has a 36W solar panel, which is just enough to power the attic fan. It has a strong DC motor that can work efficiently so that the fan can move the moisture and hot air out your space daily during the sunny hours.

I also noticed that its solar panel is adjustable up to 45 degrees or flat up, depending on what the situation needs.

This model can also move up to 1628 cubic feet per minute provided of its exposure under the full sun. Also, I would like to recommend that you install one attic fan per 2625 square feet space.

If you’re living in a colder climate place, you might also want to buy the optional snap-on thermostat.

When it comes to added satisfaction in your purchase, this device also has a 25-year limited warranty for every purchase. Choosing an attic fan with a long warranty like this one is important for your peace of mind.

I would like to note that all the hardware needed is included in the kit. More so, I noticed that it offers an easy installation because there is no wiring needed for installation.

2. iLIVING Smart Exhaust Fan

Reliable and efficient operation
Nice and sleek design
Compact and solid construction
IP68 waterproof rating
Efficient solar panel

Expensive
Loud operation

When shopping around for an exhaust fan, you might want to check out the iLIVING solar roof fan. It is a highly rated product based on those solar powered attic ventilator reviews that you will find online.

There is no doubt because this product offers outstanding features, which make it a top-performing and reliable attic fan.

This model is one of the most reliable around because it has solid features and compact size. It is easy to install and use, so it is a good choice among homeowners who do not have much experience in installing products like it.

The solar attic fan is also an ideal choice for its compact size, adding to its portability. You don’t have to worry about it looking bulky at all. I would also like to note that it is more reliable than other products especially if living in a cooler climate.

This model includes a smart thermostat control. Not all products in the same category include a thermostat control. You might want to check this one out if you want to buy an attic fan that has it.

Another thing that makes it unique is its brushless motor, making it more innovative and reliable. This type of motor is in the latest models of attic fans, and it is one of the things that you might want to look for when finding a roof ventilator.

I also liked that this item has a rating of IP68, which makes it an ideal choice in the category. It only means that this item is waterproof and heavy-duty. It can deal with the rough weather conditions. With this feature, you can be worry-free that it’s reliable for outdoor changes.

There is also nothing quite like its sleek design. Its black color blends well with the design of your roof. Choosing it, you don’t need to repaint or redesign your roofing system because this one can blend well with it.

This product also comes with a 15-year warranty, so you can find more satisfaction in your purchase. With it, you can also get help when you need assistance like for a defective product received.

In addition, this model can cool up to 2000 square feet. You can also choose an AC non-stop day or night running connection with an on or off switch, but it is sold separately.

3. Remington Solar Attic Fan

Thermostat and humidistat pre-installed
Easy installation
Quiet brushless motor
Can cool up to 2500 square feet
Sleek and nice black color and design

Some installation issues
Expensive

The Remington Solar Attic Fan is another good pick if you’re looking for a solar attic fan that delivers. There is nothing quite like it when it comes to reliability. It is by Remington that is known for many years as one of the best manufacturers of solar ventilation fans. I can agree because of the reviews regarding it that I have read. That is why I didn’t miss but include this product in our top picks.

The 30W attic fan is another eco-friendly appliance because it is solar-powered. You don’t have to think about spending more on electricity, as this item runs through the energy of the sun with is built-in solar panel.

I would like to recommend it not only for those environmentally conscious but also for those looking for a quality clean energy product.

Remington has been a solid name in solar products, and it didn’t fail my expectations once again for this item. It has a bonus and integrated Thermostat and Humidistat. With it, you don’t have to purchase them separately. That’s savings for us.

I also liked the black color of this exhaust fan because it blends well with just about any decoration or design. We don’t also need to repaint our roof to match both the attic fan and roof.

In addition, I noticed that this attic fan could operate with a brushless motor. It works quieter than other items in the same category could. More so, I can say that it’s indeed one of the best rated solar attic fans because of such feature in addition to its nice design.

More so, I would like to mention that it has the innovative noise-dampening technology that makes it quieter than others in the same category are.

The fan with a 24V DC motor can also offer us a stylish design in addition to its top quality solar panel. This item also comes with risk-free guarantee. It is backed by a 30-day return policy.

4. Amtrak Solar Attic Fan

Powerful 40W motor
Affordable but quality components
RV, garage or home compatible
Quiet cooling and ventilation

Quite small
Wires might make others think of hard installation

The Amtrak Solar fan is another top pick around for its durability and performance. It offers many features and functions making for a quality and functional attic fan. You might want to check it out if you want an upgraded and operational fan for your space.

One of the things I liked about the solar fan is its powerful 40-Watt motor. While it is, it is not as noisy as other products in the same category are. If you’re reading a solar power attic fan review, you might have also bumped into a feedback saying that this fan is effective in ventilating their homes, RV or garage.

With the proper ventilation, they’re able to prevent moisture buildup that would otherwise lead to mold and mildew buildup.

Also, using a solar fan like this one, they have protected their family from allergies. There is no doubt because keeping proper humidity and temperature in a space can prevent the growth and development of these organisms.

I also liked that the fan itself has an efficient and large enough fan blade. This 14-inch fan also offers an easy to open louver. I would like to note that this product has integrated wires, so there is no hassle in its use.

In addition, I noted that this item has an extra wire and brackets included for easy installation in Gabel vent as well as in a greenhouse, recreational vehicle or garage, to name some.

You will also appreciate it has a thermal-protected fan motor along with high quality fan blades. Both of these make the ventilation fan more efficient. This particular fan can work for up to 2,250 square feet.

If you would like to, you can also request for a free optional thermostat. It is quite a savings to appreciate. With this offer, you don’t need to buy it separately.

The made in the USA solar fan is also with a highly efficient solar panel that can run or power the low wattage, which is just enough to run the fan.

I would also like to mention that this item does not require holes in the roof. You don’t also have to get permits or any electrician. In addition, you don’t have to get any inspections.

In addition, I have read from the specifications of the maker that this solar panel can produce power for over 30 years.

You will also appreciate that it comes with four pieces of mounting brackets. For easy installation, it also includes instructions to follow as well as 25 feet of wire included, allowing for a quick connection.

5. Rand Solar Powered Attic Fan

Free solar energy
435 CFM capacity
No wirings
Long life brushless motor
Can cool or ventilate 700 square feet

Less powerful than others in the same category
Not for larger spaces

Rand Solar is a tried and tested brand that has been around for many years. You can count on it in terms of quality and performance of its products. This ventilator is a top rater in the category, and for reasons. Take a look at the best solar roof ventilator if you’re looking to get a reliable attic fan that delivers.

The 8-Watt roof ventilator is the solar energy product that you’re looking for if you have a smaller space. It works perfectly from the beginning and for a long time because it is made from top quality materials.

This item always runs on free solar power, so it is necessary for those who want to cool or ventilate a space but without adding to their monthly spending. This item has a reliable solar panel to keep the fan spinning.

I would love to have something like it in my home because I can cool the attic or space without spending on electricity. You can cut your cooling bill significantly by using this kind of product in your attic or roof.

For a very short time, this fan can also pay for itself, so there is nothing to lose. I would like to note that it’s good for the environment. It works effectively but without depending on fossil fuel to operate. It runs on free energy forever, so it does not add to the pollution of the environment.

If you have a larger space to cool or ventilate, you might have to install at least one attic fan. On the other hand, you might want to take a look at bigger models offered by the manufacturer. It has 30W or 40W fans.

In addition, I am recommending this product to those who have a smaller space because it can only ventilate up to 700 square feet for its 435 CFM capacity.

This unit is also self-contained. You just have to mount it to the roof, and it is working automatically. It is a compact fan even for a small space. It is also with a 20-year parts warranty.

6. ECO-WORTHY Attic Fan

Effective ventilator
Foldable solar panel
Moneysaving on electricity
Greenhouse, home, outdoor and RV
25-year Warranty

Covers a smaller space than others can

Another decent choice in the category is the ECO-WORTHY Attic Fan. One of the things that make it a standout is its efficiency.

This item can work even on a low voltage. With minimum operating voltage of 4V, you will be able to get ventilation even on a cloudy day. It does not consume much power, so it is always ready to function even with a low voltage supply.

In addition, the attic fan has the strength that you will like. For example, I would like to note that it could cover an area up to 1960 square feet. It can be for you if you have a medium-sized attic or garage. You can also use it in a recreational vehicle or mobile home.

More so, this item has a high efficiency motor. It works well but without causing much noise the others in the same category do. This solar attic fan can protect against moisture that otherwise leads to mold and mildew growth.

It also has a high quality construction that can deal with the changing weather conditions. You can be certain of long-term use when you select this attic fan.

I would like to note that the 25W attic fan can cool your roof and can reduce your AC conditioning load. In the end, you will be able to cut your cooling cost with this item that can keep your attic ventilated. This fan is also easy to install, making it ready to use for any place like your RV, shed, home and outdoor.

In addition, this model is with an integrated cable that has a quick connector. You can also install it easily because of its quick connect wires. This fan is quick to install any place in your attic and gable vent.

7. Natural Light Solar Attic Fan 24-watt

Can cover a space of up to 2100 square feet
30% federal solar tax credit
25-year warranty
Hardware for installation included
Durable and high quality aircraft-grade aluminum

Optional snap-on thermostat sold separately

This solar roof ventilator is another product to take a look at if you want a quality and high performance fan for your attic, garage, recreational vehicle and cabin, to name some. It is by Natural Light, one of the most trusted brands in the scope that you should not miss when comparing your options.

The fan with a 25-Year Warranty is a topnotch solution for homeowners who want to save on electricity while also keeping their attics ventilated. It can save them on cooling cost because their AC does not have to work as hard as before the installation of the ventilator fan.

As it is solar-powered, it is also environment friendly. It does not add pollution to the environment or consume traditional energy sources. This unit runs using clean energy from the sun, making it not just a cost-effective but environment-friendly solution. You will not have to worry about adding pollution to the environment.

There is also no wiring needed unlike the others in the category, adding to the ease of installation. You will appreciate it if you have not much experience in installing appliances like it.

In addition, I would like to mention that this unit is made from premium quality aircraft-grade aluminum, which enhances its durability. More so, this product is backed by 25-year warranty, one of the best in the industry. With this feature, you can have peace of mind that you can get help when something goes wrong with your purchase.

On the cons, its snap-on thermostat is sold separately, though. But still, you should not miss this Natural Light attic fan if you’re looking for topnotch attic fan to last for years. It is also made by a tested and trusted brand in the scope, so you can rest assured it is quality.