Installing a Solar Attic Vent Fan in Your Greenhouse

An attic vent fan in a greenhouse can make a tremendous amount of difference in the temperature and the humidity. Many homeowners who have a greenhouse in their backyard install a solar-powered attic vent fan to gain more control over what the atmospheric conditions in the greenhouse are like. Healthier plants and vibrant colors in the blooms are all a product of both the nutrients in the soil and the amount of sun, heat, and water that is in the air. If you have a greenhouse, here are some steps to take to install a solar powered attic vent fan.

Step 1: Plan for Location of Fan and Thermostat

An attic vent fan is operated automatically through a thermostat that is placed nearby to its location. In a home with the attic vent fan installed, this means either on the roof or along the sides of the attic walls. With a greenhouse application the same thing would apply. It does not matter where the fan is located as long as it has unobstructed access to air flow in and out of the greenhouse. Take some time to look over where the fan will be located and mark the areas before doing any work.

Step 2: Outline Attic Vent Fan for Cutting Out

Once you know where the fan is going to be installed, take the template for the case and draw an outline on the plexiglass, or glass, where it will be positioned.

Step 3: Cut Hole for Fan

Remove the glass pane where the attic fan is going to be installed. If you are working with plexiglass, you can begin to cut out the hole for the fan with a jig saw and a plexiglass blade. Drill a hole in each of the corners with a drill first and then carefully follow along the lines. If working with glass, you will either need to use a glass cutter, or take it to a glass shop for cutting.

Step 4: Install Thermostat

While the glass is being cut, or after you have cut the plexiglass, set the thermostat in position on the cross beam. Secure with metal self-tapping screws or with the use of adhesive backing.

Step 5: Install Solar Panel

If the solar powered attic vent fan has a detached solar panel, you will need to install this in a section that receives a lot of sun during the day. Secure to the crossbeams with the use of self tapping metal screws.

Step 6: Install Fan

With the thermostat and the solar panel in place, set the fan into the piece of plexiglass, or glass pane, where you cut the hole. Secure with the mounting bracket and tighten all connections. Replace the pane back into the greenhouse from where it came. Place a bead of weatherproof caulking around the outside of the attic fan to keep an airtight seal.

Step 7: Make All Connections

Because the attic vent fan is solar powered, you will only need to connect wires from the solar panel, the thermostat and the fan. Follow the manufacturer's instructions while doing this and make sure that the connections are secure.