Electric vs Solar Attic Fan: Pros and Cons

You may be considering a solar attic fan over the conventional electric type. A fan in the attic is a great way of cooling the often hot and stuffy air. Besides, when the attic is cooler, it impacts favorably on overall coolness in the entire house. Below is a guide you will find useful. It gives the strengths and weaknesses of both the electric and solar fans.

Pros of Electric Attic Fan

With an electric fan, you can enjoy constant attic cooling with no disruptions. The fan is not dependent on the sun's availability so you need not be deprived of efficient cooling effects when sunlight disappears. The constant spin action of the electric fan therefore assures you of a far better cooling experience in the entire house. This is unlike the solar fan whose activity is dependent on sunlight. Electric attic fans also cost much less than the solar variety.

Cons

Electric fans utilize electricity which depletes the earth's energy reserves. It is not the best choice for the ecologically conscious. The carbon emissions generated during electricity consumption add to environmental pollution and global warming. If you prefer the green alternative to house cooling, an electric fan doesn't fit the bill. You also have to meet the electric power costs unlike the solar fans which work for free. You can count on increased costs during the hot summer months. More costs are inevitable if you wish to have an electric fan installed. The wiring involved calls for a technician or professional if you are to be sure of safety.

Pros of Solar Attic Fan

Solar attic fans are an efficient way to exhaust hot air. They do this for free, using the sun's rays. No costly power bills to incur there. Installation also comes cheap. You can set up one yourself and need not call in a technician. This adds to the overall cost-effectiveness of the solar fan. If the noise generated by an electric fan irritates you, a solar fan will be a welcome choice. They are quiet yet efficient as they go about their work. There are also the green benefits associated with solar fans. They do not upset the ecological balance. They are also a great way of responsible energy utilization and environmental conservation.

Cons

The solar fan does have its downside though. It will only function when direct sunlight falls upon the panel. When sunlight is blocked, for whatever reason, the spinning action comes to a halt immediately. Unfortunately, you may not find your attic sufficiently cool when the sun goes down yet the fan's activity will have ground to a halt. Besides the absence of sunlight, other facts also affect the spin capability of the solar fan. If the angle of the sun is not high enough, the fan will spin slower, hence a reduced cooling effect. Further, solar fans cost considerably more than electric attic fans to purchase. However, since the operational costs are almost zero, it probably balances out in the long run.