**Wiring Methods**:
– Attic fans can be hardwired into an electric circuit.
– They are commonly controlled by a thermostat set between 60°F to 120°F.
– Fans can also be hardwired but controlled by a switch.
– Another method is to plug the fan into a nearby electric socket.
– Environmentally friendly fans can be wired to roof-mounted solar panels.
**Grounding/Earthing**:
– Attic fans, being metal and exposed to lightning, require proper grounding.
– Grounding is achieved through screws on the thermostat box.
– Modern fans have a grounding wire connected directly to the motor.
– This ensures that all components are properly grounded for safety.
– Grounding is crucial for protecting against electrical hazards.
**Controversy**:
– There is controversy surrounding the effectiveness of attic fans.
– Negative pressure from attic fans can pull conditioned air from living spaces.
– This can counteract the expected energy conservation benefits.
– The debate revolves around the potential energy loss with attic fan usage.
– The impact of attic fans on overall energy efficiency is questioned.
**Fire Danger**:
– Operating attic fans could potentially spread fire due to air movement.
– Louvered vents with fusible links can close in case of fire.
– Automatic cutoff switches can turn off power if temperatures exceed limits.
– Safety measures are crucial to prevent attic fans from exacerbating fires.
– Mitigating fire risks involves incorporating safety features in attic fans.
**References**:
– Cox, William Jr. (May–June 2000) – For Fans of Attic Fans.
– Published in Old-House Journal by Active Interest Media, Inc.
– Complete Home Storage by Sunset Books in 1992.
– These sources provide additional insights into attic fan usage.
– References help in understanding the historical context and practical applications of attic fans.
This article needs additional citations for verification. (August 2014) |
A powered attic ventilator, or attic fan, is a ventilation fan that regulates the heat level of a building's attic by exhausting hot air. A thermostat is used to automatically turn the fan off and on, while sometimes a manual switch is used. An attic fan can be gable mounted or roof mounted. Additional vents are required to draw in the fresh air as the hot air is exhausted. Attic fans are typically used in warmer months, when temperatures in an attic can exceed 120 °F (49 °C). A fan may be installed in an attic for the different purpose of cooling a whole house, venting hot air out via the attic; such fans are often called whole-house fans.
Mechanical attic ventilation fans may be powered in a variety of different ways. Most attic ventilators fitted to homes are powered off mains electricity. A trend towards solar-powered attic ventilators is observable in the interest of conserving electricity and lowering monthly utility bills. Wind-powered roof turbines, often colloquially referred to as "whirly-birds", are also used to ventilate attics and other confined spaces.
Definition from ChatGPT:
Attic fan:
An attic fan is a ventilation fan that is installed in the attic space of a building to help regulate the temperature and humidity levels. Attic fans are designed to exhaust hot air from the attic, which can help reduce the strain on air conditioning systems and improve overall energy efficiency. They can also help prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth in the attic space.