With so many home cooling systems on the market, it can be a challenge to decide what type of unit is worth getting. If you simply want to move warm internal air out of the entire house and replace it with fresh air from outside, a whole house fan may be what you’re looking for. A whole house fan installs inside your house into walls or the ceiling, and frequently in the attic. It draws in the cooler outdoor air as it expels inside air. As an inexpensive option compared to other air conditioning devices, a whole house fan (AKA whole house attic fan) has much to offer.
Questions to ask about whole house fans
What does a whole house fan do?
A whole house fan draws cool air inside the opening and expels hot air through the attic or ceiling peak.
How does a whole house fan work?
They can operate at different speeds; faster speeds allow houses to cool more quickly but are louder, and slower speeds maintain the coolness over time and are less noisy than the faster speeds.
Where in the house should a whole house fan be located?
A whole house fan installation typically places the fan in the center of the home, at or near the highest elevation.
When should a whole house fan be operated?
It’s best to run a whole house fan at night when outdoor temperatures are lower than the inside.
What are the benefits of a whole house fan? Not only does it work to bring in cool air, but it can also help maintain air quality in your space.
Additional accessories that can be beneficial to a whole house fan
Louvers: Work to control unwanted air flow when the fan is not in use.
Thermal Covers: Attach over louvers to keep cold air out in the winter, they can attach with magnetic strips.
Digital Timers: Set automatic timers for on or off cycles.
Whole house fans are ideal to use as a stand-alone cooling system or to supplement other cooling systems such as traditional air conditioning. For additional ventilation systems for homes and other types of building and structures, see our ceiling exhaust ventilators, belt driven exhaust fans, and direct drive exhaust fans.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.