How Do Roof Fans Work?

As you start to feel the summer heat creep in, you may think about lowering the AC and busting out a fan. But did you know that your attic might hold the secret to cooling off this summer? Your attic plays an important role in the comfort level of your home, acting as a heat shield in the summer. The climate in your attic has a big impact on the temperature in the rest of the home, which is why a roof fan can be vital to improving the climate of your home. 

What Is A Roof Fan?

As the sun shines down on the roof of your home, your home absorbs this heat. The heat starts in the top, in the attic space, and is conducted down through the home’s frame. If there is too much heat energy in the attic, especially in the middle of summer, this heats the home even more. A roof fan is a simple device that can help cool the attic before this heat is transferred down into the home. 

How Do Roof Fans Work?

Roof fans, sometimes called attic fans, are installed on either the roof or a top exterior wall near the attic space. These fans pull the air through the attic space, creating movement in the attic and pulling some of the hot air out of the space. This increased circulation will help cool the attic, as well as pull cooler air from outside into the attic. Additionally, roof fans control the amount of moisture in your home, something that is especially important in a humid climate like Hawaii. The circulating air keeps the area fresh, which helps reduce moisture levels. This can prevent moisture-related damage, such as mold, fungus or water damage. 

How Roof Fans Work In The Winter

Some people may assume that because roof fans remove the excess of hot air during the summer that they will also remove the warm air in the home during the winter, creating a drag on your heating efficiency. However, this is not the case. Most homes do not heat the attic, because you want your attic to stay closer to the temperature it is outside. If warmer, moisture-laden air enters your attic and hits the roof, it is more likely to form condensation due to the cold weather outside. If you are finding moisture in your attic during the winter, you may have inadequate insulation in your home or need additional ventilation to keep the air circulating. 

Sizing Is Key For Your Attic Fan

Just like your air conditioning unit or heating unit need to be the right size for your home, you also need the correct amount of attic ventilation to keep your home cool and dry. If you do not have enough ventilation, it can lead to moisture problems in the winter and decreased energy efficiency in the summer. Too much ventilation increases the amount of penetration in your roof, which may increase the chance of leaks.  If you are wondering if your home has the right amount of ventilation (or any at all!) talk with your indoor air specialist, like the team at AirPro Indoor Air Solutions. 

Concerned About Your Attic?

If you are not sure if your attic is properly ventilated, the best course of action is to contact a professional to assess the situation. Contact the team at AirPro Indoor Air Solutions today to set up your consultation for roof fan installation.