Collection: Best Attic Fans for Home Ventilation

Home Attic Fan

During summer months, attic temperatures can get extremely hot, quickly reaching temperatures of one hundred and fifty degrees Fahrenheit.  

An attic exhaust fan will help to ventilate and remove warm air from your attic.  Before installing an attic exhaust fan, you should ensure that you have proper roof venting.  As a general rule, for every 300 square feet of attic area, you should have at least one square foot of attic vents.  Most homes have proper roof vents, but it is always good to double-check your home before installing an exhaust fan.

Attic fans are available in two basic configurations.  The first is a wired attic exhaust fan that is powered by your home's electricity.  The second type is a solar-powered attic exhaust fan that uses the sun's power to operate.  An electric powered fan can and will run continuously even after the sun has gone down. In comparison, a solar-powered fan will stop working once it gets dark. 

There are several benefits to installing an exhaust fan in your attic.  The first is it will reduce the heat that can cause damage to your roof.  Secondly, it will reduce the load on a central air conditioner, by keeping your a/c ducting cooler, which will allow for more efficient operation.  Finally, it will keep your living space cooler by reducing heat penetration from the attic.

We feature the Quiet Cool line of best attic exhaust fans. 

Your attic can become a place of sweltering heat during the summer months. Even if the interior of your home is comfortably cool, temperatures in your attic can soar high above those temperatures. This extreme heat can damage your roof and valuables stored there. Additionally, moisture can gather in your attic, leading to mold, mildew, and further problems. Installing a quiet cool attic fan, help regulate attic temperatures and reduce moisture buildup, protecting your home and belongings.

Many families prize attic space as a place to keep seasonal items when out of season. From prized heirloom holiday decorations to seasonal clothing you only need a few months out of the year, your attic holds it all. You don’t want these things ruined by moisture or heat. Fortunately, the right exhaust fan in your attic, like the Quiet Cool attic exhaust fan, can make all the difference in the world.

With the Quiet Cool brand, you have the option of a hard-wired attic exhaust fan or a solar-powered version to help you keep your home cool and comfortable while protecting your roof, protecting your valuable items stored in your attic, and reducing your home cooling costs during some of the hottest months of the year.

That's quite a list of accomplishments for one small fan you store in the attic of your home. Even better, you can opt for a quiet attic fan if noise reduction is a priority for you. We also offer rooftop attic fans if you prefer or have a specific need. Whether you need a rooftop or gable attic fan, we can offer the ideal solution for your cooling needs.

Attic fans come in two main types in terms of power source: (1) wired, which runs on your home's electrical grid, and (2) solar, which is powered by the sun.

Wired attic exhaust fans

Even though a wired attic fan uses your home's electricity, it's surprisingly affordable to run. We carry a range of energy-efficient models:

Smart Energy Saver Attic Roof Fan (AFR SMT ES-2.0)

This state-of-the-art quiet attic fan provides energy-efficient cooling with three adjustable speeds, which you can control using an app on your phone. The advanced electronic commutated motor (ECM) ensures powerful airflow while using minimal energy.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the user-friendly instructions. The Smart Control feature lets you monitor the humidity and temperature in your attic. You can choose to manually activate the fan or set the auto-adjustment feature to let the fan run automatically when conditions demand it.

Smart Energy Saver Attic Gable Fan (AFG SMT ES-3.0)

This ECM-powered wired home attic fan doesn’t involve complicated wiring, making it easy to install. It cools your home efficiently using minimal wattage. Even at its highest speed (2801 CFM), it consumes only 148 watts and just 22 watts at its lowest (1337 CFM). Best of all, you can control the fan and monitor attic conditions using the Quiet Cool App and Bluetooth on your phone.

Smart Professional Attic Gable Fan with Smart Control 2860 CFM

This Quiet Cool attic fan with smart control can ventilate and cool up to 4,000 square feet of space thanks to its energy-efficient 2-speed PSC motor. It uses only 205 watts even at its powerful high setting (2860 CFM). You can count on worry-free cooling with a fire safety sense shut-off. No wiring required — simply plug it in and it's ready.

Solar-powered attic exhaust fans

Get even more savings from your attic exhaust fan without losing cooling power by choosing a solar-powered model that harnesses renewable energy.

Gable Attic Fan 14” with 40-watt Solar Panel (1486 CFM)

Reduce your AC costs by up to 30% with this solar-powered quiet attic fan. During the day, its 40-watt polycrystalline solar panel uses free sunlight, and at night, the included AC/DC smart inverter switches to your home's electricity. A built-in thermostat maintains optimal ventilation around the clock.

14” Solar Attic Fan 40 W Panel (1092 CFM)

This solar-powered home attic fan is wire-free and straightforward to install. Its built-in inverter automatically switches to electricity when sunlight isn't available to ensure continuous operation. It has a preset thermostat that activates the fan at 88 degrees and deactivates it at 77 degrees, so there’s no need for manual adjustments. Maximize sun exposure with the adjustable bracket that tilts up to 60 degrees vertically and rotates 180 degrees horizontally!

Configurations

Attic fans can also be classified based on their configuration. Roof-mounted fans like the Smart Energy Saver Attic Roof Fan draw hot air out through the roof itself. In contrast, gable fans such as Smart Energy Saver Attic Gable Fan push hot air through existing gable vents on the sides of your attic.

Tax incentives for using solar attic fans

Did you know that installing a solar Quiet Cool attic fan could qualify you for the Investment Tax Credit? This incentive provides a dollar-for-dollar reduction from your tax liability. If your tax credit is $300, for example, the total bill is cut by $300, essentially making buying an attic fan better than a tax deduction! You can claim this tax incentive when filing your federal income tax.

How to size an attic fan

Most manufacturers recommend getting an attic exhaust fan that offers 2 to 3 CFM (cubic feet of air per minute) for every square foot of living space.

However, you should also consider your location. If you’re inland, 2.5 CFM per square foot is ideal. Coastal and mountainous regions typically require 2 CFM, while desert climates need 3 CFM per square foot.

Are solar attic fans better than turbine vents?

Solar attic fans outperform turbine vents when it comes to airflow. That’s because, despite a 300 CFM rating, turbine vents often only achieve 10 to 30 CFM. In contrast, solar attic fans with strong motors can deliver up to 20 times more airflow to make your attic much cooler — typically 5-10 degrees below outdoor temperatures. You can even combine solar fans with turbine vents to further enhance ventilation.

Are attic fans better than ridge vents?

Ridge vents and attic fans work best in tandem because ridge vents provide passive ventilation while solar attic fans add active airflow. Together, they keep your attic cool and prevent heat issues.

The cost of installing an attic fan

Depending on features, size, and brand, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a solar-powered attic fan before factoring in installation.

Attic fans and cold climates

Did you know that attic fans are not just for hot weather? They can be very useful in cold climates as well. They can prevent ice dams by ensuring proper attic ventilation and can also combat moisture buildup throughout the year.

Check out modern and low-profile attic fans

We also offer smart solar attic fans with low-profile designs that blend seamlessly with your home. Their durable metal housing provides excellent protection against tropical storms and heavy snow.

Comparing the costs of installing attic fans and air conditioning

Installing an attic fan can cost anywhere from$350 and $1,000 and depends on factors like the fan type (solar or electric), installation complexity (roof or gable), and any required electrical work or permits. It is far more affordable than installing a new central air conditioning system, which could cost up to $20,000. An attic fan is a targeted and cost-effective solution that improves ventilation and reduces attic temperatures to effectively supplement your existing AC system, improving its efficiency and reducing your overall cooling costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the maximum CFM airflow and wattage consumption of the QuietCool Smart Attic Fan when running at the highest speed?

The QuietCool Smart Attic Fan by Whole House Fan achieves a maximum CFM airflow of 2801 while running at the highest speed. Despite its powerful performance, this energy-efficient quiet attic fan only consumes 148 watts. Its cutting-edge design allows it for efficient cooling and significant electricity savings.

2. What type of motor does the Smart Attic Fan use for its energy-efficient operation?

The Smart Attic Fan by Whole House Fan utilises an Electronic Commutated Motor (ECM), which ensures its energy-efficient operation. This innovative motor technology enables the quiet attic fan to move a significant amount of air while consuming minimal wattage, which results in substantial electricity savings and cost-effective attic cooling.

3. How many speeds does the energy-efficient fan have, and how is it controlled?

The Quiet Cool Smart Attic Fan offers three adjustable speeds for optimal attic cooling. You can easily control the fan using the Smart Control App on your tablet or smartphone. The app provides convenient access to switch between speeds and monitor attic temperature and humidity to ensure efficient and customised ventilation.

4. How does the fan's consistent cooling performance compare to traditional attic fans?

The QuietCool AFG SMT PRO-3.0 home attic fan provides consistently superior cooling performance compared to traditional attic fans. Its energy-efficient two-speed PSC Motor efficiently ventilates up to 4,000 square feet, which keeps the attic cooler than conventional fans. With the smart control and fire safety sense shut-off, it ensures effective and safe attic cooling.

5. What is the power consumption in watts on the low-speed setting?

On the low-speed setting, the power consumption of the attic exhaust fan, QuietCool AFG SMT PRO-3.0, is 157 watts. This energy-efficient operation ensures effective attic ventilation and cooling while using minimal electricity and providing cost savings and environmental benefits.

6. Does the solar attic fan require any complex wiring during installation?

No, the solar attic exhaust fan by Whole House Fan is designed to be a plug-and-play system, which means it does not require any complex wiring during installation. This feature makes it easy to set up and start benefiting from the fan's cooling and ventilation capabilities quickly and efficiently.

7. How does the energy-efficient DC motor of the solar attic fan contribute to its maintenance?

The energy-efficient DC motor in the QuietCool solar attic fan requires no maintenance and provides a hassle-free cooling solution for your attic. With its efficient operation, you can enjoy consistent ventilation without the need for frequent checks or servicing. Whole House Fan offers a reliable and convenient solution for attic cooling needs.

Attic fans come in two main types in terms of power source: (1) wired, which runs on your home's electrical grid, and (2) solar, which is powered by the sun.

Wired attic exhaust fans

Even though a wired attic fan uses your home's electricity, it's surprisingly affordable to run. We carry a range of energy-efficient models:

Smart Energy Saver Attic Roof Fan (AFR SMT ES-2.0)

This state-of-the-art quiet attic fan provides energy-efficient cooling with three adjustable speeds, which you can control using an app on your phone. The advanced electronic commutated motor (ECM) ensures powerful airflow while using minimal energy.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the user-friendly instructions. The Smart Control feature lets you monitor the humidity and temperature in your attic. You can choose to manually activate the fan or set the auto-adjustment feature to let the fan run automatically when conditions demand it.

Smart Energy Saver Attic Gable Fan (AFG SMT ES-3.0)

This ECM-powered wired home attic fan doesn’t involve complicated wiring, making it easy to install. It cools your home efficiently using minimal wattage. Even at its highest speed (2801 CFM), it consumes only 148 watts and just 22 watts at its lowest (1337 CFM). Best of all, you can control the fan and monitor attic conditions using the Quiet Cool App and Bluetooth on your phone.

Smart Professional Attic Gable Fan with Smart Control 2860 CFM

This Quiet Cool attic fan with smart control can ventilate and cool up to 4,000 square feet of space thanks to its energy-efficient 2-speed PSC motor. It uses only 205 watts even at its powerful high setting (2860 CFM). You can count on worry-free cooling with a fire safety sense shut-off. No wiring required — simply plug it in and it's ready.

Solar-powered attic exhaust fans

Get even more savings from your attic exhaust fan without losing cooling power by choosing a solar-powered model that harnesses renewable energy.

Gable Attic Fan 14” with 40-watt Solar Panel (1486 CFM)

Reduce your AC costs by up to 30% with this solar-powered quiet attic fan. During the day, its 40-watt polycrystalline solar panel uses free sunlight, and at night, the included AC/DC smart inverter switches to your home's electricity. A built-in thermostat maintains optimal ventilation around the clock.

14” Solar Attic Fan 40 W Panel (1092 CFM)

This solar-powered home attic fan is wire-free and straightforward to install. Its built-in inverter automatically switches to electricity when sunlight isn't available to ensure continuous operation. It has a preset thermostat that activates the fan at 88 degrees and deactivates it at 77 degrees, so there’s no need for manual adjustments. Maximize sun exposure with the adjustable bracket that tilts up to 60 degrees vertically and rotates 180 degrees horizontally!

Configurations

Attic fans can also be classified based on their configuration. Roof-mounted fans like the Smart Energy Saver Attic Roof Fan draw hot air out through the roof itself. In contrast, gable fans such as Smart Energy Saver Attic Gable Fan push hot air through existing gable vents on the sides of your attic.

Tax incentives for using solar attic fans

Did you know that installing a solar Quiet Cool attic fan could qualify you for the Investment Tax Credit? This incentive provides a dollar-for-dollar reduction from your tax liability. If your tax credit is $300, for example, the total bill is cut by $300, essentially making buying an attic fan better than a tax deduction! You can claim this tax incentive when filing your federal income tax.

How to size an attic fan

Most manufacturers recommend getting an attic exhaust fan that offers 2 to 3 CFM (cubic feet of air per minute) for every square foot of living space.

However, you should also consider your location. If you’re inland, 2.5 CFM per square foot is ideal. Coastal and mountainous regions typically require 2 CFM, while desert climates need 3 CFM per square foot.

Are solar attic fans better than turbine vents?

Solar attic fans outperform turbine vents when it comes to airflow. That’s because, despite a 300 CFM rating, turbine vents often only achieve 10 to 30 CFM. In contrast, solar attic fans with strong motors can deliver up to 20 times more airflow to make your attic much cooler — typically 5-10 degrees below outdoor temperatures. You can even combine solar fans with turbine vents to further enhance ventilation.

Are attic fans better than ridge vents?

Ridge vents and attic fans work best in tandem because ridge vents provide passive ventilation while solar attic fans add active airflow. Together, they keep your attic cool and prevent heat issues.

The cost of installing an attic fan

Depending on features, size, and brand, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a solar-powered attic fan before factoring in installation.

Attic fans and cold climates

Did you know that attic fans are not just for hot weather? They can be very useful in cold climates as well. They can prevent ice dams by ensuring proper attic ventilation and can also combat moisture buildup throughout the year.

Check out modern and low-profile attic fans.

We also offer smart solar attic fans with low-profile designs that blend seamlessly with your home. Their durable metal housing provides excellent protection against tropical storms and heavy snow.

Comparing the costs of installing attic fans and air conditioning

Installing an attic fan can cost anywhere from$350 and $1,000 and depends on factors like the fan type (solar or electric), installation complexity (roof or gable), and any required electrical work or permits. It is far more affordable than installing a new central air conditioning system, which could cost up to $20,000. An attic fan is a targeted and cost-effective solution that improves ventilation and reduces attic temperatures to effectively supplement your existing AC system, improving its efficiency and reducing your overall cooling costs.