Attic fans are devices that are installed in the attic of a building to improve ventilation and reduce heat buildup. They work by drawing hot air out of the attic and replacing it with cooler outside air, which helps regulate the temperature and prevent damage to the roof and other building materials. Some attic fans are powered by electricity, while others use wind or solar power to operate.
10 Best Attic Fans to Buy
Here are 10 popular attic fans that are available for purchase:
QuietCool AFG PRO-3.0 – Advanced Whole House Fan
The QuietCool AFG PRO-3.0 is an advanced whole house fan that is designed for effective and efficient ventilation in large homes. The fan is designed to be installed in the attic and can be used to cool the entire home by pulling in cool air from outside and exhausting hot air from the home into the attic. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- Energy Efficiency: The fan uses less energy compared to traditional air conditioning systems, which can result in energy savings and lower energy bills.
- Quiet Operation: The fan is designed for quiet operation, with noise levels as low as 43 decibels.
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation, and can be installed by homeowners with basic DIY skills.
- Energy Star Certified: The fan is Energy Star certified, which means it meets strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 3,000, which makes it ideal for larger homes and attics.
- Multi-Speed Control: The fan features multi-speed control, which allows homeowners to adjust the fan speed to their preferences.
- Weather Resistant: The fan is designed to be weather resistant, with a durable and weather-resistant housing that can withstand exposure to the elements.
Overall, the QuietCool AFG PRO-3.0 is a high-quality, energy-efficient whole house fan that provides effective and efficient ventilation for large homes.
Iliving ILG8SF10V Wall-Mounted Variable Speed Shutter Exhaust Fan
The Iliving ILG8SF10V Wall-Mounted Variable Speed Shutter Exhaust Fan is a wall-mounted ventilation fan that is designed for use in garages, workshops, and other industrial or commercial spaces. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- Variable Speed Control: The fan features variable speed control, which allows users to adjust the fan speed to their needs.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with a heavy-duty aluminum shutter and an epoxy-coated motor that are designed to withstand exposure to the elements.
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation, and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
- Energy Efficient: The fan operates on a low power consumption, which makes it energy efficient and cost-effective to run.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 1,000, which makes it ideal for larger spaces.
- Quiet Operation: The fan operates quietly, which makes it suitable for use in environments where noise levels need to be kept low.
- Versatile: The fan can be used for exhaust or intake purposes, making it a versatile and flexible ventilation solution.
Overall, the Iliving ILG8SF10V Wall-Mounted Variable Speed Shutter Exhaust Fan is a high-quality, energy-efficient ventilation fan that is ideal for use in garages, workshops, and other industrial or commercial spaces.
Broan-NuTone 512M Through-the-Wall Ventilation Fan
The Broan-NuTone 512M Through-the-Wall Ventilation Fan is a wall-mounted ventilation fan that is designed for use in bathrooms, toilets, and other areas where improved ventilation is required. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation through the wall, and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
- Energy Efficient: The fan operates on a low power consumption, which makes it energy efficient and cost-effective to run.
- Quiet Operation: The fan operates quietly, which makes it suitable for use in areas where noise levels need to be kept low.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with a durable polymeric grill and an epoxy-coated motor that are designed to withstand exposure to moisture and humidity.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 160, which makes it ideal for small to medium-sized spaces.
- Safety Features: The fan is designed with safety in mind, and features a built-in backdraft damper to prevent outside air from entering the room.
- Easy to Clean: The fan features an easy-to-clean polymeric grill, which can be easily removed for cleaning.
Overall, the Broan-NuTone 512M Through-the-Wall Ventilation Fan is a high-quality, energy-efficient ventilation fan that is ideal for use in bathrooms, toilets, and other areas where improved ventilation is required.
Air King AK965 Advantage Duct Mount Exhaust Fan
The Air King AK965 Advantage Duct Mount Exhaust Fan is a duct-mounted ventilation fan that is designed for use in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where improved ventilation is required. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation through the duct, and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
- Energy Efficient: The fan operates on a low power consumption, which makes it energy efficient and cost-effective to run.
- Quiet Operation: The fan operates quietly, which makes it suitable for use in areas where noise levels need to be kept low.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with a heavy-duty steel housing and a permanently lubricated motor that are designed to withstand exposure to moisture and humidity.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 130, which makes it ideal for small to medium-sized spaces.
- Safety Features: The fan is designed with safety in mind, and features a built-in backdraft damper to prevent outside air from entering the room.
- Easy to Clean: The fan features an easy-to-clean steel housing, which can be easily removed for cleaning.
Overall, the Air King AK965 Advantage Duct Mount Exhaust Fan is a high-quality, energy-efficient ventilation fan that is ideal for use in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where improved ventilation is required.
BV Ultra-Quiet 90 CFM, 0.8 Sone Bathroom Ventilation and Exhaust Fan
The BV Ultra-Quiet 90 CFM, 0.8 Sone Bathroom Ventilation and Exhaust Fan is a bathroom ventilation fan that is designed for quiet and efficient operation. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- Ultra-Quiet Operation: The fan operates at just 0.8 sones, which makes it one of the quietest bathroom ventilation fans on the market.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 90, which makes it ideal for small to medium-sized bathrooms.
- Energy Efficient: The fan operates on a low power consumption, which makes it energy efficient and cost-effective to run.
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation, and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with a heavy-duty metal housing and a permanently lubricated motor that are designed to withstand exposure to moisture and humidity.
- Safety Features: The fan is designed with safety in mind, and features a built-in backdraft damper to prevent outside air from entering the room.
- Easy to Clean: The fan features an easy-to-clean metal housing, which can be easily removed for cleaning.
Overall, the BV Ultra-Quiet 90 CFM, 0.8 Sone Bathroom Ventilation and Exhaust Fan is a high-quality, energy-efficient, and quiet bathroom ventilation fan that is ideal for use in small to medium-sized bathrooms.
iLIVING ILG8E14-15 Wall Mounted, Exhaust Fan
The iLIVING ILG8E14-15 Wall Mounted Exhaust Fan is a wall-mounted ventilation fan that is designed for use in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and other areas where improved ventilation is required. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- Energy Efficient: The fan operates on a low power consumption, which makes it energy efficient and cost-effective to run.
- Quiet Operation: The fan operates quietly, which makes it suitable for use in areas where noise levels need to be kept low.
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation, and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with a heavy-duty steel housing and a permanently lubricated motor that are designed to withstand exposure to moisture and humidity.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 140, which makes it ideal for small to medium-sized spaces.
- Safety Features: The fan is designed with safety in mind, and features a built-in backdraft damper to prevent outside air from entering the room.
- Adjustable Speed: The fan features adjustable speed control, which allows you to choose the right speed for your needs.
- Easy to Clean: The fan features an easy-to-clean steel housing, which can be easily removed for cleaning.
Overall, the iLIVING ILG8E14-15 Wall Mounted Exhaust Fan is a high-quality, energy-efficient, and quiet ventilation fan that is ideal for use in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and other areas where improved ventilation is required.
Air King AK100L Portable Exhaust Fan
The Air King AK100L Portable Exhaust Fan is a portable ventilation fan that can be used in a variety of indoor and outdoor applications. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- Portable Design: The fan is designed to be portable, and can be easily moved from room to room as needed.
- Energy Efficient: The fan operates on a low power consumption, which makes it energy efficient and cost-effective to run.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 100, which makes it ideal for small to medium-sized spaces.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with a heavy-duty metal housing and a permanently lubricated motor that are designed to withstand exposure to moisture and humidity.
- Adjustable Speed: The fan features adjustable speed control, which allows you to choose the right speed for your needs.
- Easy to Clean: The fan features an easy-to-clean metal housing, which can be easily removed for cleaning.
- Safety Features: The fan is designed with safety in mind, and features a built-in backdraft damper to prevent outside air from entering the room.
Overall, the Air King AK100L Portable Exhaust Fan is a high-quality, energy-efficient, and portable ventilation fan that is ideal for use in a variety of indoor and outdoor applications.
MaxxAir 14-Inch High Velocity 2-Speed Wall-Mount Fan
The MaxxAir 14-Inch High Velocity 2-Speed Wall-Mount Fan is a high-velocity wall-mounted fan that is designed for use in a variety of indoor and outdoor applications. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- High Velocity: The fan is designed to deliver high-velocity air movement, which makes it ideal for use in spaces where improved ventilation is required.
- Adjustable Speed: The fan features a two-speed control, which allows you to choose the right speed for your needs.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with a heavy-duty metal housing and a permanently lubricated motor that are designed to withstand exposure to moisture and humidity.
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation, and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
- Safe Operation: The fan features a safety grill that protects against accidental injury and keeps fingers from coming into contact with the blades.
- Easy to Clean: The fan features an easy-to-clean metal housing, which can be easily removed for cleaning.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 3075, which makes it ideal for medium to large-sized spaces.
Overall, the MaxxAir 14-Inch High Velocity 2-Speed Wall-Mount Fan is a high-quality, durable, and versatile fan that is ideal for use in a variety of indoor and outdoor applications where improved ventilation is required.
Delta BreezRadiance RAD80L 80 CFM Exhaust Fan
The Delta BreezRadiance RAD80L 80 CFM Exhaust Fan is a compact and energy-efficient exhaust fan that is designed for use in small to medium-sized rooms. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- Energy Efficient: The fan operates on low power consumption, making it energy efficient and cost-effective to run.
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 80, which makes it ideal for small to medium-sized spaces.
- Quiet Operation: The fan features a brushless DC motor that operates quietly, making it ideal for use in bedrooms, bathrooms, and other quiet spaces.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with a heavy-duty plastic housing that is designed to withstand exposure to moisture and humidity.
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation, and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
- Safe Operation: The fan features a safety grill that protects against accidental injury and keeps fingers from coming into contact with the blades.
- LED Indicator Light: The fan features an LED indicator light that lets you know when the fan is in operation.
Overall, the Delta BreezRadiance RAD80L 80 CFM Exhaust Fan is a high-quality, energy-efficient, and quiet exhaust fan that is ideal for use in small to medium-sized rooms where improved ventilation is required.
Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling 290 CFM Ceiling Mounted Fan
The Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling 290 CFM Ceiling Mounted Fan is a ceiling-mounted fan that is designed for use in medium to large-sized rooms. Some of the key features of this fan include:
- High CFM: The fan has a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of 290, which makes it ideal for medium to large-sized spaces.
- Quiet Operation: The fan operates quietly, making it ideal for use in bedrooms, bathrooms, and other quiet spaces.
- Energy Efficient: The fan is designed to be energy efficient, which makes it cost-effective to run.
- Easy to Install: The fan is designed for easy installation, and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
- Durable Construction: The fan is made with high-quality materials that are designed to withstand exposure to moisture and humidity.
- Safe Operation: The fan features a safety grill that protects against accidental injury and keeps fingers from coming into contact with the blades.
- LED Indicator Light: The fan features an LED indicator light that lets you know when the fan is in operation.
Overall, the Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling 290 CFM Ceiling Mounted Fan is a high-quality, energy-efficient, and quiet ceiling-mounted fan that is ideal for use in medium to large-sized rooms where improved ventilation is required.
Note: The selection of the best attic fan will depend on individual preferences, needs, and budget. It is advisable to research and compare the features, performance, and reviews of the different options before making a purchase.
How to Choose the Attic Fans
When choosing an attic fan, consider the following factors:
- Size: Choose a fan that is appropriate for the size of your attic. A larger fan will be more effective, but it will also consume more energy.
- Type: There are two types of attic fans: gable fans and roof-mounted fans. Gable fans are mounted in the gable wall of the attic and are more common, while roof-mounted fans are installed directly on the roof.
- Power source: Electric attic fans are more common, but solar and wind-powered fans are also available. Solar-powered fans are more energy-efficient and eco-friendly, but may not be as effective in areas with limited sun exposure.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the fan you choose has adequate ventilation and is properly installed to ensure that it operates effectively.
- Features: Some attic fans come with features such as adjustable speed settings, automatic shut-off, and built-in thermostats. Consider your specific needs and choose a fan that has the features you need.
- Price: Attic fans range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Choose a fan that fits within your budget and provides the level of performance you need.
Attic Fans Buying Guide
When buying an attic fan, consider the following:
- Type: Choose between gable fans, roof-mounted fans, or roof ventilators.
- Size: Select a fan that is the appropriate size for your attic, taking into consideration the square footage of the space.
- Power Source: Consider the energy source for the fan, such as electric, solar, or wind.
- CFM: CFM stands for cubic feet per minute and measures the amount of air the fan can move. Ensure that the fan you choose has an appropriate CFM for your attic size.
- Ventilation: Make sure the fan has adequate ventilation and that it will be installed in a location that will allow it to operate effectively.
- Features: Look for features such as adjustable speed settings, automatic shut-off, and built-in thermostats.
- Price: Attic fans range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Choose a fan that fits within your budget and provides the level of performance you need.
- Warranty: Look for a fan with a warranty to ensure that it will be covered in case of defects or malfunctions.
- Brand reputation: Research the brand reputation of the fan you are considering and look for reviews from other customers who have purchased and used the same product.
- Professional installation: Consider hiring a professional to install your attic fan to ensure that it is installed correctly and safely.
Pros and Cons of the Attic Fans
Pros of Attic Fans:
- Improved Ventilation: Attic fans help to improve ventilation in the attic by removing hot air and replacing it with cooler air from outside.
- Reduced Heat Buildup: Attic fans can reduce heat buildup in the attic, which can prevent damage to the roof and other building materials.
- Energy Efficiency: Attic fans can help to reduce the amount of energy needed to cool your home, as they can help to regulate the temperature in the attic.
- Cost Savings: By reducing the amount of energy needed to cool your home, attic fans can result in cost savings on your energy bills.
- Increased Comfort: Attic fans can improve comfort levels in your home by regulating the temperature and reducing heat buildup.
Cons of Attic Fans:
- Initial Cost: Attic fans can be expensive, and the cost of installation can also be high, particularly if professional installation is required.
- Maintenance: Attic fans require regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication, to ensure that they operate effectively.
- Noise: Some attic fans can be noisy, which can be disruptive to household occupants.
- Energy Use: Electric attic fans consume energy, which can result in additional energy costs.
- Limited Effectiveness: Attic fans may not be as effective in areas with limited sun exposure or in areas with poor insulation, as these factors can affect the effectiveness of the fan.
FAQs
What is an Attic Fan?
An attic fan is an electrical device that helps to ventilate the attic space and cool the house. It draws hot air out of the attic and replaces it with cool air, reducing the temperature in the attic and the house.
Why is an Attic Fan important?
An attic fan can help to prevent heat buildup in the attic, which can cause damage to the roof and structure of the house, as well as increase energy costs by making air conditioning work harder.
How does an Attic Fan work?
An attic fan works by pulling hot air out of the attic and replacing it with cool air from outside. The fan is mounted in the attic and is connected to a thermostat that turns it on when the temperature in the attic reaches a certain level.
What are the benefits of using an Attic Fan?
An attic fan can improve the energy efficiency of a home by reducing the load on air conditioning systems, extend the life of roofing materials by reducing heat damage, improve indoor air quality by removing trapped hot air, and reduce humidity levels in the attic to prevent mold growth.
What are the different types of Attic Fans?
There are two main types of attic fans: roof-mounted and gable-mounted. Roof-mounted fans are installed on the roof, while gable-mounted fans are installed in the gable vent of the attic.
What factors should be considered when choosing an Attic Fan?
The size of the attic, the climate, and the type of roof should be considered when choosing an attic fan. Additionally, the homeowner should consider the cost of installation, the efficiency of the fan, and the noise level of the fan.
How often should an Attic Fan be used?
An attic fan should be used when the temperature in the attic reaches a certain level, typically around 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit. The frequency of use will depend on the climate and the type of roof.
Final Verdict
When choosing an attic fan, there are many factors to consider, including the type of fan, the CFM rating, the power consumption, the noise level, and the ease of installation. Some of the best attic fans on the market today include the QuietCool AFG PRO-3.0, the Iliving ILG8SF10V Wall-Mounted Variable Speed Shutter Exhaust Fan, the Broan-NuTone 512M Through-the-Wall Ventilation Fan, the Air King AK965 Advantage Duct Mount Exhaust Fan, and the BV Ultra-Quiet 90 CFM, 0.8 Sone Bathroom Ventilation and Exhaust Fan, among others.
In conclusion, when choosing an attic fan, it is important to consider your specific needs and requirements, such as the size of the room and the level of ventilation required, as well as the energy efficiency, noise level, and ease of installation of the fan. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best attic fan for your needs and enjoy improved ventilation and comfort in your home.