Whole House Fans

Whole house fans have been used for at least 60 years. They are an effective way to cool a living space once the outdoor temperature is cooler than inside your home. With ever-increasing energy costs, investing in whole house fans will pay you back in a very short time. Over it's lifetime, it can save you many thousands of dollars.

Traditionally, installation was complicated, the fans were loud, and required that a large hole be cut into your ceiling. These systems required above-normal roof and attic ventilation, which if not configured properly, could end up making a home warmer.

The current models are much quieter, they are easier to install, they are maintenance free, they are energy efficient, and they usually come with a satisfaction guarantee.

When not in use, the newer whole house fans form an air tight seal between your attic and living area, with insulating values rated at a minimum of R-20. They could go to R-40, depending on field conditions at he point of installation.

Central air systems can use close to 6000 watts per hour. A fan will use between 120 and 600. Here's how to use them in a way that will only require you to use your air conditioners on those rare occasions when the night-time temperatures stay above 75 degrees.

When the evening comes and the outdoor temperature is cooler than the indoor, open a few windows and turn the fan on. It will draw the warm air out of the house while pulling in the cooler outdoor air.

When you get up in the morning, turn the fan off and close the windows. The house should retain a comfortable temperature throughout the day, especially if you have awnings or window treatments that block the sun from causing interior ambient heat.

(This tip can be applied to smaller fans as well. The size of the house will determine the size of the fans. Open 2 windows on opposite sides of the house. Place a fan in front of each window - one facing in and the other facing out. The fan facing in will draw cool air into the house while the fan facing out will pull warm air out).

Not all units of whole house fans are alike. So make sure your contractor is using one that is quiet and efficient. Consumer Search performed 2 comparison tests of these fans. Good Housekeeping tested 32 models (of all shapes and sizes).

The Green Guide substantiated that fans use 90% less electricity than air conditioning systems. If you're in the Chicago area, we recommend the R.E. Williams Contractor, Inc. They sell a good product and specialize in these installations. If you're in other parts of the country, they will ship the unit to you, with instructions - you have to arrange for the installation.

If you have any questions or comments about whole house fans let me know.

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