Using solar products is gaining more attention throughout the world. In the US, 1.6% of the total electricity used is solar energy. One way to utilize solar energy is by investing in a solar attic fan.
A solar attic fan is an overhead fan that helps circulate air in an attic. These fans operate using the sun’s energy and are modern and unique appliances at home or in an office. Although solar attic fans offer many advantages, they also have some disadvantages.
Continue reading to know the pros and cons of solar attic fans.
Pros of Solar Attic Fans
Here are the benefits of using a solar fan for your attic.
Uses Renewable Energy
One of the significant advantages of using solar attic fans is that they use the sun, a renewable energy source. It also means that you lessen carbon production in your home. As a result, you can help the environment.
They Have Better Energy Efficiency
You can maximize the use of your attic to store some of your items when hot air is blown out in the summer. During winter, you can move the air back into your home to get more heat. This is enhanced as solar panels become more and more efficient.
When your attic is cool, it helps in lowering the energy needed in your home. Therefore, you can save on cooling and heating expenses for the whole year. You also get more storage that you can use to manage clutter in your home better.
No Operating Costs
Once you have installed solar-powered attic fans, you don’t need to worry about operating costs, as is the case with electricity-powered attic fans. There are no costs after installation unless there are small damages or breakages.
You Have More Accessible Energy When Needed
Since solar attic fans utilize energy from the sun, you have the option to use it on days you need it most. This will help you keep your attic cooler without paying more for electricity expenses.
Solar Powered Attics are Safer
Products powered by electricity are more expensive and riskier to operate compared to those powered by solar. Electricity-powered attic fans can create negative zone pressures that could cause the cooled air from the AC to go into the attic. This can be dangerous because it can move carbon monoxide and other gases upward.
With solar attic fans, you don’t have to worry about this. Solar attic fans don’t pull carbon monoxide appliances to the attic.
Cons of Solar Attic Fans
Some of the downfalls of solar attic fans include:
Cost
There is a higher capital expense for the price of solar attic fans than standard attic fans. Even though you compensate for the expense from the energy saved in the long run, some cost factors need to be considered.
More Solar Attic Fans Needed
For better results, you may need two or more solar attics fans. Since solar attic fans have less power output, they are not as effective in moving air as other attic fan options.
Therefore, to get the result that you want, you likely need to install 2 solar attic fans. You might have to wait longer to compensate for the installation expenses because of this.
If the size of your home is more than 1,600 square feet, you might likely need 3 fans to take advantage of the movement of air and energy savings. This is one of the common reasons why most contractors suggest using attic fans if you regularly use your attic or there is a room next to it.
Air Movement Issues
You already understand that solar attic fans are not as powerful as standard attic fans. They have low air movement to move the air out of your attic compared to standard attic fans.
Therefore, you might need to add more technologies with passive flow features to save more energy and enjoy a better temperature in your space. Hence, you will end up investing more in equipment without reaping the benefits of space.
Conclusion
Finally, with this understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of solar attic fans, it is easier to determine whether they are worth the investment. It is also important to consider other factors like where you live, the location of your house with regards to the sun, and the interior.