A solar attic fan is a convenient and effective tool for ensuring proper ventilation in your attic while saving on utility bills. It works by pushing hot air out and allowing cooler air to fill the attic.
Solar attic fans are motorized to produce enough power to push hot air out of the attic. They are easy to install and set up as they do not require you to change your attic’s electrical wiring or interfere with the structural design. Furthermore, they are powered by photovoltaic solar panels, thus saving you on the cost of electricity.
If you are looking for an effective, energy-saving, and environmentally-friendly solution to cool your attic, solar-powered attic fans are a great option.
Review of the 6 Best Solar Attic Fans
Here is a detailed look at some of the top solar attic fans on the market for your consideration.
1. Best Overall Choice: ECO-WORTHY 25W Solar Powered Attic Ventilator
Technical Specifications
- Size: 2 x 14.5 x 9.8 inches
- Weight: 13.47 pounds
- Fan Wattage: 25W
- Panel Wattage: 30W
- Material: Steel
- Air Flow Capacity:1960cfm up to 2000 square feet
- Plug Profile: Gable vent
- Warranty: Not Indicated
- Adjustable solar panel: yes
- Parts included in the package: solar panel, fan with housing, mounting brackets, hinges, and mounting screws
The ECO-WORTHY 25W solar attic fan is designed to work efficiently, even in low light conditions. The fan can work at a low voltage of 4V; therefore, it works well even on cold days. However, it does not work when it is extremely cold or at night.
It is best installed on a gable vent, but an expert can make a few installation adjustments to fit it on the roof. It is versatile and can be installed in RVs, greenhouses, garage sheds, or outdoor.
This ECO-WORTHY ventilator features an upgraded motor that is fast, has low energy consumption, operates quietly, and has an extended life span up to twice that of a regular motor. It also comes with a pre-installed 8-inch, 16-feet solar cable for easy set-up of the unit.
The fan has five blades that are made of 104 stainless steel. They have a double-sided punch to fit any installation direction and adjust the fan to the wind direction. The fan has a capacity of 1960 cfm, and it moves big volumes of air.
ECO-WORTHY notes that they offer a warranty on this ventilator’s parts, including faulty fan and missing assembly parts. However, the warranty period is not indicated on the product’s page on Amazon.
Pros
- Adjustable fan direction
- Operates quietly and efficiently
- Works well even in cold seasons at a low voltage of up to 4V
- Come with a pre-installed 16-feet solar cable
- Has a wide range of application including attics, greenhouses, garage doors, and outdoors
- Responsive ECO-WORTHY customer service
Cons
- Warranty period and terms are not clear
2. Best Premium Choice: Iliving Hybrid Solar Roof Attic Exhaust Fan
Technical Specifications
- Size: 14 inches
- Weight: 30pounds
- Fan Wattage: 30W
- Panel Wattage: 20W
- Material: Aluminum, nylon, and steel
- Air Flow Capacity: 1750cfm up to 2000 square feet
- Plug Profile: Roof
- Warranty: 15 years on the fan
- Adjustable solar panel: yes
- Parts included in the package: solar panel, fan with housing, mounting bracket, hinges, and mounting screws
This solar attic fan is built for durability and efficiency. It is made in the USA in San Francisco, California. Its casing is made of aluminum, and the solar panel is made of polycrystalline. The manufacturer offers a 15-year warranty on the fan.
The solar panel is adjustable to the following angles: 9, 15, 30, and 45. It provides a power of up to 20W to run the motor. It is driven by a built-in brushless motor, which is 1P68 rated – meaning it is fully waterproof and impact resistant. It has a 6-bladed fan with a capacity of 1750Cfm up to 2000 sq. ft. to keep it running throughout.
The Iliving hybrid solar attic fan comes with a smart thermostat that controls temperatures within a preset range of 65 -130f. You can further accessorize it with an AC/DC adapter kit, which is sold separately. You can also add other features, including a power on/off switch and a screen guard.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Ready for add-on features
- Comes with a thermostat
- Can be accessorized with ac input to operate at night and in very cold conditions
Cons
- Once ac input is plugged it, it ceases to operate as a solar attic fan
3. Best Budget Choice: ECO-WORTHY Solar Powered Attic Fan
Technical Specifications
- Size: 6 X 9.5 X 4.6 inches
- Weight: 2.14 pounds
- Fan Wattage: 3W
- Panel Wattage: 3W
- Material: stainless steel casing and fan blades
- Air Flow Capacity:500 cfm
- Plug Profile: roof
- Warranty: 5 years
- Adjustable solar panel: no
- Parts included in the package: solar panel, fan with housing, hinges, and mounting screws, spare fan blade and screws
If you are looking for a low-budget yet effective solar attic fan, this is it. The ECO-WORTHY solar powered attic fan is designed to be versatile and high-preforming. It can be used in attic roofs, sheds, garages, caravans, and boats.
Its fan has intake and exhaust blades that offer up to 500cfm. The fan can be switched on and off. This product comes with a spare fan blade that can be installed for reversible push and pull operation. The unit operates quietly.
One of this solar attic fan’s key distinguishing features is that it comes with a built-in rechargeable lithium battery. The rechargeable battery keeps the fan running, especially in low light or extremely cold conditioned. It is easy to install as it has pre-drilled mounting holes and self-tapping screws. It is made with stainless steel, so it is durable, rust-resistant, and corrosion-resistant.
Pros
- Affordable
- Works efficiently
- Has a built-in rechargeable lithium battery to keep it running even in low light conditions
- Easy to install
- Operates quietly
Cons
- May not be appropriate for larger spaces
4. Remington 30W Solar Attic Fan
Technical Specifications
- Size: 22 X 22 X 11 inches
- Weight: 30pounds
- Fan Wattage: 30W
- Panel Wattage: 20W
- Material: aluminum, nylon, and steel
- Air Flow Capacity:1750cfm up to 2000 square feet
- Plug Profile: roof
- Warranty: 30 days satisfaction guarantee and a 15-years limited warranty on the fan
- Adjustable solar panel: yes
- Parts included in the package: solar panel, fan with housing, humidistat and thermostat, hinges, and mounting screws
The Remington 30W solar attic fan is designed to efficiently control moisture, lower temperature, and properly ventilate your attic.
The solar attic fan operates on a brushless motor that produces 24-38v. The motor makes no contact when operating, and it does not generate noise. This also reduces wear and tear on the motor that would result from friction.
Although the motor is quiet, it generates enough power to effectively move large volumes of air. The fan has a capacity of up to 2200Cfm across 2,200 sq. ft. The solar panel is adjustable to the following angles: 0,15, 35, and 45 to maximize power generation.
The solar attic fan comes with a built-in smart humidistat and thermostat that can be switched on or off from a smartphone. It can also be fitted with a 110v hybrid adapter to enable it to function at night and when it is cold. The hybrid adapter should be bought separately as it does not come with a fan. The unit is waterproof, hail, and weather resistant.
The manufacture offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee whereby you can try out the fan and return it for a full refund within 30 days if you are not satisfied with it. In addition, the manufacturer offers a limited 15 year warranty on the fan.
Pros
- Operates effectively and efficiently
- Fitted with a 23-38v brushless motor
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Easy to install in a few steps
- Comes with a smart thermostat and humidistat
- Can be installed with a hybrid adapter for enhanced functionality in low light conditions
Cons
- Once ac input is plugged it, it ceases to operate as a solar attic fan
5. Amtrak 50W Solar Attic Fan
Technical Specifications
- Size: 25X22X6 inches
- Weight: 12 pounds
- Fan Wattage: 12v dc
- Panel Wattage: 50W
- Material: Alloy steel, aluminum finish, and crystalline solar panel
- Air Flow Capacity:2000cfm up to 2200 square feet
- Plug Profile: Attic, roof
- Warranty: 25-year warranty on fan blades, solar panel, and motor.
- Adjustable solar panel: No but can be accessorized with mounting brackets to make it adjustable
- Parts included in the package: solar panel, fan with housing, thermostat (upon request), hinges, and mounting screws
The 50W Amtrak solar attic fan is designed to be highly efficient, powerful, and versatile.
It has numerous applications, including a shed, cabin, garage, greenhouse, and RV. It comes with extra 15’ wires and brackets for easy set up wherever you choose to install it. It can be easily fitted in the gable without complicated wiring or making holes on the roof.
This cooling system is fitted with 10-inch fan blades. The fan is multidirectional with a reversible push and pulls operation mechanism. It has a capacity of 2000cfm and can cover up to 2250 sq. ft. The fan blades run quietly and with high precision.
The fan is driven by a high torque, ball bearing motor. The fan’s motor is thermally protected to ensure it does not heat up and keeps operating efficiently. On the other hand, the solar panel is made of high-quality crystalline for optimal power production. While the solar panel is not adjustable, you can buy mount brackets to make it adjustable.
Customers have an option to request for a free thermostat to come along with the fan. The fan is designed so that you can easily add on the thermostat. Besides, if you request the thermostat, the package will come with connectors and an instruction manual to set up the thermostat.
The Amtrak Solar company offers a 25-year warranty on this solar attic fan. The warranty covers the fan motors, fan blades, and solar panel. The manufacturer vouches for this fan’s durability and says that it can last up to 30 years.
Pros
- Easy to install with minimal manipulation on the installation site
- Powerful and effective – move large volumes of air
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Customers have the option to request a free thermostat
- Wide range of applications including attic, roof, greenhouse
Cons
- The solar panel is not adjustable
6. Broan-NuTone 28Watts Solar Powered Attic Ventilator
Technical Specifications
- Size: 5X29.9X7.75 inches
- Weight: 20.7pounds
- Fan Wattage: 12v dc
- Panel Wattage: 28W
- Material: Plastic casing, aluminum fan blade, and polycrystalline silicon solar panel
- Air Flow Capacity:537cfm up to 2200 square feet
- Plug Profile: Roof
- Warranty: 6-year warranty on fan and solar panel, and 2-year warranty on motor.
- Adjustable solar panel: No
- Parts included in the package: solar panel, fan with housing, thermostat (optional), steel bracket, and fasteners
The Broan-NuTone 28 Watts solar attic ventilator assumes a compact and low-profile design for a cooler and more comfortable attic. The low-profile design ensures that it fits well on different roof designs. While its compact design also ensures that you do not have to cut a big part of the roof when installing the ventilator. It comes with stainless steel fasteners and steel brackets for easy installation.
It is also built to withstand harsh weather conditions and keep off pests. It has an aluminum heavy gauge screen that keeps insects and animals from getting into the fan or motor. In addition, the tempered-glass-like polycrystalline solar panel material is weather-resistant, enabling the unit to withstand even the strongest winds and largest hail.
It is fitted with a 12-inch, 5-blade fan with a capacity of 537Cfm. The fan is made from aluminum and is powered by a direct current motor that offers superior performance while operating silently.
Pros
- Low profile design that is versatile and unobtrusive
- Easy to install
- Weather and pest resistant
- Built to last
Cons
- Too small for big attics
Buying Guide for Solar Attic Fans
Choosing the best solar company for your solar attic fan for you can be a tough decision. This part of the article aims to make the decision-making process easier for you by helping you understand what a solar attic fan is, its purpose, how it operates, its advantages over air conditioning systems, and its main parts. This buying guide also offers you some pointers on what to look out for in a solar attic and the factors to consider.
Why Do You Need a Solar Attic Fan?
During summer, when it is hottest, most attics can reach a temperature of up to 1500F. If the attic is not well ventilated or fitted with a powerful AC, the heat radiates throughout the house.
This increases the demand for cooling systems in the rest of the house, and consequently, the cost of air conditioning. The extreme heat can also lead to damage on the roofs. Besides, the high humidity during summer may lead to mold or mildew manifestation.
Even in sold seasons, the best solar attic fan can come in handy. They prevent ice damming, which could lead to mold manifestation or damage on the roof. Ice damming happens when snow lands on a fairly warm roof, causing it to melt. The melted snow water collects in the gutters and eaves and refreezes.
If this process happens frequently enough, the roof could get damaged, causing leakages. A solar attic fan pushes the excess moisture out of the attic and keeps the attic roofing cool to prevent ice from thawing.
Ultimately, it improves air circulation in the attic and throughout your home, no matter the season. Suppose you regularly use the rooms adjacent to the attic. In that case, you will notice a significant difference in the temperatures and quality of air in those rooms once you install a solar attic fan.
Advantages of Solar Attic Fan Over Air Conditioning
Below are some advantages that solar attic fans have over air conditioning:
- Solar attic fans are quiet. They do not make a loud noise when operating as most air conditioners do.
- They are cheaper. Solar attic fans are cheaper to buy, install, and maintain compared to air conditioning systems. Yet, they are effective in cooling the attic, as would air conditioners. Since they are operated on solar panels, they do not increase your cost of electricity. They also help in cooling the rest of the house, especially rooms adjacent to the attic. Therefore, reducing the amount of electricity used by cooling systems in those rooms.
- Easy to install. Unlike air conditioning systems that would require you to make significant changes to your electrical wiring and, in some cases, structural changes, solar attic fans are often quick and easy to install without elaborate wiring.
Other Benefits of the Best Solar Attic Fan
- They are efficient. They adequately ventilate the attic. Moreover, some solar attic fans are thermostatically designed to automatically switch off when it is cooler and run when it is hot in the attic.
- You may qualify for a tax credit incentive depending on your state’s regulations. Some states award members who are keen to go green to conserve energy. For instance, if you install an Energy Star-rated solar attic fan, you qualify for a 30% federal tax credit on the purchase price and installation cost.
- They protect your property from damage. If excess heat accumulates in the attic for long, it can damage your roofing system from the inside.
- Solar attic fans are safe. Electric attic fans are extremely powerful; therefore, they can pull carbon monoxide and other dangerous fumes from ground level gas appliances in your home. On the other hand, solar attic fans operate gently to push hot air out and allow cool air into the room.
Main Parts of a Solar Attic Fan
While different solar attic fans in the market have different specifications in terms of size, shape, weight, number of fan blades, material, etc., most of them have the following main parts:
- A photovoltaic solar panel that powers the fan
- Solar panel bracket or mount. It attaches the solar panel to the shroud. Can also be used to adjust the incline of the solar panel
- It houses the solar panel
- Shroud bracket. Attaches the shroud to the roof or gable
- DC motor. Transmits the solar energy to the motor
- Motor Isolation bracket. Separates the motor and the fan blades
- A high output fan blade. It moves the air in and out of the room
- Heavy-duty flashing. It is the bottom part of the shroud. It covers the fan blade and animal screen
- Some solar attic fans come with an automatic thermostat that allows you to preset the optimal temperature
- Protective animal screen. Keeps the debris, bugs, and small animals from entering the fan blade. Some solar attic panels have a protective screen while others do not
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Solar Attic Fan
There is no-one right solar attic fan for everyone. The right one will depend on your needs, conditions, and budget, among other factors. Below are some factors to put into consideration when determining the right solar attic fan for you.
- Type of roof. Solar attic fans can be installed on the roof or gable. Roof-mounted fans are most suitable for flat and pitched roofs, while gable-mounted fans are best installed on already existing gables.
- Size of your attic. To determine the appropriate size of the fan to buy, multiply 0.7 by the sq. ft of your home. The answer you get is the minimum cubic feet of air that the attic fan should move per minute.
- Shape of the roof of the attic. A steep roof will require a more powerful fan to move the air compared to a flat roof.
- Installation costs and expertise are involved. Generally, it is best to get a professional to install the solar attic fan for you. However, gable solar attic fans are easy to install and may cost less than installing roof attic fans.
- Where to position the solar attic fan. Since the solar attic fans are powered by solar energy, you want the solar panel to be installed in a site where it receives maximum exposure to the sun during the day. This keeps the panel operating effectively throughout the day.
Key Features to Look Out For in a Solar Attic Fan
Here are some important features that look out for in solar attic fans:
- Adjustable solar panel bracket. An adjustable solar panel ensures that you can adjust its inclination angle for maximum exposure to UV rays and sunlight.
- Durability. Since the solar panel will be installed on the roof, it will be exposed to extreme weather conditions, including UV radiation, rain, thunderstorm, strong winds, snow, hailstones, and hurricanes. Ensure you go for construction materials that are high durability, impact-resistant, waterproof, and corrosion-resistant.
- Availability of solar attic replacement parts. When buying any equipment, we hope that it serves us for many years without getting damaged. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. However, if parts of the solar attic fan get damaged, you want to be able to find replacement parts easily. Check the manufacturer’s website to ensure that they sell spare parts too. Alternatively, go for a solar attic fan that has a warranty that covers repairs and replacements.
- Versatility. The solar attic fan should fit well in different roofing systems. Some solar attic fans are designed for use in a wide range of spaces, including boats, garages, sheds, outdoors, and greenhouses.
- Quick and easy to install. Go for a solar attic fan that can be installed in a few steps without needing major changes in your house’s structure or electrical wiring.
- High-performance fan blade The ideal solar fan attic utilizes solar energy efficiently for optimal functionality. The more the fan blades, the more powerful the solar fan attic. Besides, if your attic is big, go for a solar attic fan with high cfm.
- Has a warranty. A comprehensive warranty that offers coverage for a longer period is a sign that the attic is reliable and durable. Keenly check what the warranty covers.
- Qualifies for federal solar tax credits. It will save you some money on the price and installation costs.
- Highly rated and has numerous positive reviews. Check the product’s reviews across different platforms to determine if the solar attic fan you are considering is credible.
If you are not clear on which solar attic fan to go for and its specifications, it is best to consult with a professional who will do a site survey and recommend the best type of attic fan to consider.
A solar attic fan will significantly lower your air conditioning bills while ensuring that your attic remains well ventilated and cool. Use the reviews and guidelines provided above to choose the most suitable solar attic fan for you, and you might qualify for a solar tax credit.