There are many variables to consider when determining the correct fan for your home. These include noise levels, installation options, and cost. You should also keep in mind any hallways, stairwells, or walk-in attics. This will help you determine how much power your home will need from an attic vent fan.
Variables
The hot summer months can make a home uncomfortable, especially if it is not properly ventilated. Fortunately, many homeowners have options to keep their homes cooler and more comfortable during these months. One way to do that is by installing attic ventilation. This method allows cooler outside air to replace hot air in the attic.
First, you need to measure the size of your attic. To do this, simply multiply the width by the length of the attic floor in feet. In most cases, this is equal to the square footage of the attic or attached garage area. Then, multiply this number by 0.7 to determine the minimum CFM for your attic. Once you have this figure, you can buy a fan with the right CFM capacity for your attic.
In addition to the size of the attic vent, you should consider the location of the unit. While passive gable-mounted fans can be installed by the homeowner, solar-powered or electric-powered ones should be installed by a professional. If you are interested in installing an attic vent fan for your home, be sure to consult three professionals before making your decision.
Installation options
There are two main installation options for attic vent fans: through the roof or through an exterior wall. A roof-mounted system requires the help of a licensed carpenter, and roof-mounted systems require electrical work. If you decide to install an attic fan, you should purchase one with a humidistat to prevent the growth of mildew, warped beams, and peeling paint. Attic fans with humidistats are also available with thermostats, ensuring that they operate at a desired temperature.
When installing an attic fan, it is essential that the fan is installed in a location away from protruding objects. You should also place the fan away from the crawlspace. To install the fan, you will need to cut a piece of plywood that covers the vent and screws into studs on both sides. Position the fan and plywood with the back facing you and the front facing the vent. Be sure to measure and mark in 5/8 inches on all sides.
Choosing an attic fan that is designed to fit the size of your attic is important. Purchasing a higher-quality unit will cost more than a lower-quality unit. You can even choose to install a solar-powered fan instead of an electrical model. While most attic fans can be installed by a homeowner, the installation process will cost you anywhere from $40 to $100 per hour. The location of the attic vent fan will also determine the cost.
Noise level
There are many reasons why the noise level of an attic vent fan may be too high or too low. The motor may be malfunctioning or there are other issues that cause noise. The ISO 532-2:2017 standard specifies a method to measure stationary sound levels and provides an algorithm for calculating monaural and binaural loudness.
An attic fan can be a noisy machine because it runs at high speeds and lacks insulation. Therefore, more homeowners are opting for noise-free models. An attic fan can be mounted on a roof or gable of the house, but it is recommended to purchase a roof vent cover for this type of installation.
Proper attic ventilation is important for the health and quality of your home. Proper ventilation reduces cooling costs during hot summers and protects the structure of the roof during cold winters. There are both advantages and disadvantages of using an attic fan, so it’s important to learn about it and make an informed decision before investing in one.
Cost
The cost of installing an attic vent fan depends on the size and type of fan you choose. Generally, the larger the fan, the more it will cost. You can choose between roof-mounted and gable-mounted fans, and solar-powered or electrical-powered versions. Other factors that can affect cost are the type of mounting and the amount of air flow it needs to move.
Depending on the type of roof-mounted unit you choose, the cost of installing an attic vent fan can range from $75 to $1000. A gable-mounted fan is easier to install and requires fewer modifications, but it will cost a bit more to install. A solar-powered roof-mounted fan can cost up to $1500.
The average cost for an attic fan installation is between $250 and $850. The total price will depend on the model and labor rates in your area. This type of system is very beneficial for attic ventilation, reduces moisture, and increases the life of the roofing materials. Before installing an attic fan, be sure to talk with three contractors to get the best price.
