The difference between a whole house attic fan and an attic fan

Attic exhaust fans are a common solution for reducing heat buildup in attics, particularly during hot summer months. They are designed to cool the attic space and improve air circulation. There are two main types of attic fans – the traditional attic fan and the whole house attic fan. While both types of fans serve a similar purpose, there are some key differences between them that are important to consider when deciding which type of fan is best for your home. In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between attic exhaust fans vs whole house fans.

A regular attic exhaust fan is a standalone unit that is installed in the attic and is used to ventilate that space specifically. It helps to remove hot air and moisture from the attic, which can help to prevent damage to the roof and insulation, as well as reduce the overall temperature of the attic.

On the other hand, a whole house attic fan is installed in the ceiling and vents into the attic.  It is designed to regulate the temperature in the entire house, not just the attic. When the fan is turned on and the windows are open, it pulls cool fresh air from outside and forces the hot air from the interior of the house by pushing it outside through the attic and attic vents. This can help to reduce the overall temperature in the house and reduce the load on air conditioning systems, leading to energy savings.

In conclusion, understanding the difference between a whole house attic fan and an attic fan is important in determining the most appropriate solution for your home. A traditional attic fan is good for cooling the attic space only and improving air circulation, while a whole house attic fan is designed to cool both the attic and living space and is most effective in dry climates that have cool evening, night or morning temperatures. When deciding which type of fan to install, consider your climate, the size of your attic, and your cooling needs.