Getting Started with Solar Attic Fans in Austin, TX (78731)

If you're looking to make a big difference in your Austin, TX (78731) home air conditioning bill and improve your attic's ventilation, you should get started with a solar attic fan installation. On hot days, the summer sun's heat can be magnified through the roofline of your home causing temperatures to skyrocket in your attic. Outfitting your attic with a solar powered fan will help mode your attic space efficient and help you save money over time. Here's how you can get started with a solar powered fan in Austin.

Find the Right Fan

The first thing you'll want to do when it's time to install a solar fan in your attic is to find the right fan. On the market today, you'll find a variety of solar powered attic fans ranging in size, wattage, materials and other features. You'll need to identify the right size and wattage fan according to the size of your attic space. While higher wattage fans will cost more money, they'll generally be more powerful and offer better coverage. You should also consider the materials used in the construction and if the fan is warranted. Choosing a higher quality fan will guarantee better performance and last for many years.

Solar Photovoltaic Options

When purchasing a solar fan, you'll also need to decide between using solar thermal or solar photovoltaic energy to power the fan. Solar thermal fans generally utilize heat shifting methods to create an air flow that creates an exchange between the exterior and interior atmosphere of your home. Solar photovoltaic alternatives require a direct energy source, oftentimes a solar panel. The solar panel will be connected directly to the fan to provide the power. In both cases, the fan will run off the free energy of the sun.

Attic and Roof Access

Now that you've found the right fan for your needs, you'll need to make sure that you have easy and safe access to your attic and roof when the time comes for installation. You'll need to ensure that you can safely navigate the roof or create a secure ladder to access the attic. Proper safety protocol should be followed. You'll also want to make sure that you have an appropriate workstation set up in the attic or roof space as your installation will require a few common tools.

Fan Installation

After determining that you have safe access to your roof and attic, you're ready to install the fan itself. The fan itself should come with detailed instructions so you can prepare the entire space for the installation. If you're not comfortable installing the fan yourself, you could call in a qualified and licensed contractor for the job who will also be able to perform air sealing to make sure that exhaust fans are doing their job properly.

Start Saving

Once the solar fan is installed, you're ready to start taking advantage of the savings they bring. Furthermore, solar fans can help protect your attic from serious damage caused by mold, insects, humidity and other air contaminants. Your roof will thank you, and your bank account will give you the biggest thank you for the money you'll save.

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