Solar Attic Fan

[JoeC1947]

Is it worth having one installed when I have a solar tube installed tomorrow?
I have to pay for a permit anyway so i thought I sould have this done also.

[NJblue]

My guess is that solar fans, while helpfull, do not have the air moving capacity of a wired fan. A wired fan is much cheaper and probably doesn't cost that much to operate.

[debzaranti]

We had them come back (after installation of 2 solar tubes) to install 2 solar fans. Our attic is MUCH cooler now....they seem to work really well IMHO.

Deb

[jimbo2012]

First check the CFM (cubic feet per minute it pushes) of the unit, I think U need about 1000-1500 to make a difference, in electric they cost about $100 plus install.

This one is 1000 cfm at HD for $270

Nice thing is the panels can be set to suns angle, U do not want a flat top unit.

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/300/d8/d87c6a39-7f83-4349-9c47-ea40951494a0_300.jpg

It should face due south about 180 degrees.

this is what you don't want

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/300/87/8703d296-8072-4689-9481-7d384eb18bc0_300.jpg

[TommyT]

We had them come back (after installation of 2 solar tubes) to install 2 solar fans. Our attic is MUCH cooler now....they seem to work really well IMHO.

Deb

:agree: :agree: :agree:

[graciegirl]

How much is a solar tube?

Explain too how they work...I think it is a little more sophisticated than a straight round skylight and it has some magnifying or mirroring devices in it.

Our Seabrook is a bit dark in the kitchen, but I don't know if I like it dim better than glaring light. Still thinkin' on it.

[buggyone]

How much is a solar tube?

Explain too how they work...I think it is a little more sophisticated than a straight round skylight and it has some magnifying or mirroring devices in it.

Our Seabrook is a bit dark in the kitchen, but I don't know if I like it dim better than glaring light. Still thinkin' on it.

Gracie,
The house I bought in Glenbrook came with 7 solar tubes and they are great inventions. Lets in light with no heat. There is also a new type of solar tube that has a dimmer on it so you can control how much light you want in the room.

I am surprised the premiers do not come with solar tubes (at least as an option).

Call SolarGuys for pricing info.

[jimbo2012]

How much is a solar tube?

Explain too how they work...I think it is a little more sophisticated than a straight round skylight and it has some magnifying or mirroring devices in it.

.

I think they R about $2-300 installed.

They are a clear dome with a flexible type tunnel that has reflectors inside to increase the light.

you wind up with a dome in your ceiling that is like a light fixtue.

http://www.booneyliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/solar-tubes-for-skylights.png?9d7bd4


http://www.roofvents.com/skylightphotos.jpg

[lovesports]

Is it worth having one installed when I have a solar tube installed tomorrow?
I have to pay for a permit anyway so i thought I sould have this done also.

Just like you, we were talked into the fan as we were getting solar tubes in first house. We didn't see any difference. We thought they never did it or the fan wasn't working.

On our second house, Steve Lighthouse(home inspector) said forget the attic fan as they don't help. However loved the solar tubes. They made a big difference.

[CaptJohn]

Nice thing is the panels can be set to suns angle, U do not want a flat top unit.



The general recommendation is to set solar panels to equal the latitude of ones' locale, which is 28.92 degrees in TV. It can then be fine tuned as the sun moves from season to season. Of course, maximum use is summer for a vent fan.

[CaptJohn]

Just like you, we were talked into the fan as we were getting solar tubes in first house. We didn't see any difference. We thought they never did it or the fan wasn't working.

On our second house, Steve Lighthouse(home inspector) said forget the attic fan as they don't help. However loved the solar tubes. They made a big difference.

The regular powered electric roof vent fans do make a difference. I have a thermometer in the attic and it will drop the attic temps about 20 degrees on the hottest days. As Jimbo said, it depends on the CFM of air movement.

[JoeC1947]

How much is a solar tube?

Explain too how they work...I think it is a little more sophisticated than a straight round skylight and it has some magnifying or mirroring devices in it.

Our Seabrook is a bit dark in the kitchen, but I don't know if I like it dim better than glaring light. Still thinkin' on it.

Jimbo did a good job of explaining how a solar tube works. As for the cost, the solar guys want $459 + permit for Sumter County for a 14 inch tube installed. The want $670 for a 22 watt solar attic fan. I'm gonna skip the fan for now.

I have two in my kitchen/living room area, the new one will go in the guest bathroom because there's no window.

[John_W]

...As for the cost, the solar guys want $459 + permit for Sumter County for a 14 inch tube installed. The want $670 for a 22 watt solar attic fan. I'm gonna skip the fan for now...

I remember a few months ago at one of the craft shows at LSL the Solar Guys were offering the solar tubes at 3 for $1200, you might ask them about that.

As far as cooling the attic, the best thing we did was put a screen on our garage door about a month ago. I now crack the attic steps open about a foot and since then we raised our A/C thermostat inside our house a whole degree.

[jimbo2012]

Jimbo did a good job of explaining how a solar tube works. As for the cost, the solar guys want $459 + permit for Sumter County for a 14 inch tube installed. The want $670 for a 22 watt solar attic fan. I'm gonna skip the fan for now.

I see a business opportunity here if I wish to work.

That's a high price considering the wholesale costs of those and an hours labor

[asianthree]

Steve told us not to do the solar fan too

[buzzy]

Our home inspector said that the solar fans just exhaust the air that is being pulled in from the nearest roof peak vent. So the net effect is minimal. Not worth the cost.

[CarGuys]

Jimbo did a good job of explaining how a solar tube works. As for the cost, the solar guys want $459 + permit for Sumter County for a 14 inch tube installed. The want $670 for a 22 watt solar attic fan. I'm gonna skip the fan for now.

I have two in my kitchen/living room area, the new one will go in the guest bathroom because there's no window.

Installed one large 2000 cfm solar fan to keep air moving in the attic. The radiant heat barrier does the trick but I just wanted to have constant air movement as moisture can still accumulate.

It lowered the attic temp even more and I like the fact I can look up and see it working. Can feel it also.

[jimbo2012]

The radiant heat barrier is better investment if you want to try that first, you don't need to install it on any attic spaces that face north and don't get the sun.

I think our electric company installs it but if you get a quote ask that it not go on the north to save a few $$.

You also can diy at HD for $150-200, simple staple to underside of the roof.

I think the other poster had an undersized fan. They have to lower temps

[JoeC1947]

I remember a few months ago at one of the craft shows at LSL the Solar Guys were offering the solar tubes at 3 for $1200, you might ask them about that.

As far as cooling the attic, the best thing we did was put a screen on our garage door about a month ago. I now crack the attic steps open about a foot and since then we raised our A/C thermostat inside our house a whole degree.

Hello John,

I already have two solar tubes and only need one more. The price I got is an "event" price because the Solar Guys are having some sort of a show this week.

I have a screen on the garage and I have a stick holding the attic stairs opened a little. There is an air pull from the garage this way.

[jmvalcq]

We had both a solar tube and fan installed about 5yrs ago. They are great. The fan runs with the sun, not a thermostat. The solar tube is great because it lights up a room without turning on the lights. Biggest regret is that We only installed one tube.

[jimbo2012]

I think U save about $50 in electric a year not turning the light on in that same room.

[tambo100]

My guess is that solar fans, while helpfull, do not have the air moving capacity of a wired fan. A wired fan is much cheaper and probably doesn't cost that much to operate.
I will agree that electric attic vent fans are more powerful, but they are loud, consume expensive electricity, and typically run far into the evening/early AM. I know that my Solatube Solar Star solar fans, which I used to replace my electric fans, are whisper quiet and have already paid for themselves. I know the Solar Star fans have a proven track record of highly efficient operation with little/no maintenance issues.

[tambo100]

A key benefit to consider when looking at tubular skylights/sun tunnels is the quality of life improvements that they can provide. Even 'daylight' light bulbs have an off color. The Solatube Daylighting Systems I have (and I have 4 in my home) provide absolutely crystal clear daylight. The other brands that are found in big box stores have different, less reflective surfaces that absorb certain parts of the spectrum as the light travels down the tube. The results with those are that the light that is brought into your home will have either a yellow/orange tint or a blue/gray tint, depending on which off-brand you purchase. I chose the Solatube brand because of the quality of light that they bring into my home. Also, the invented the tubular skylight over 20 years ago and hold patents on pretty much ever part of their system - prisms in the roof dome, the 99.7% reflective surface inside the tube, and the 7 different ceiling fixtures offered. I have NEVER regretted my choice.

[tambo100]

First check the CFM (cubic feet per minute it pushes) of the unit, I think U need about 1000-1500 to make a difference, in electric they cost about $100 plus install.

This one is 1000 cfm at HD for $270

Nice thing is the panels can be set to suns angle, U do not want a flat top unit.

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/300/d8/d87c6a39-7f83-4349-9c47-ea40951494a0_300.jpg

It should face due south about 180 degrees.

this is what you don't want

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/300/87/8703d296-8072-4689-9481-7d384eb18bc0_300.jpg
There is a misperception that the solar attic fans with adjustable panels are the best or work better than other. Not so. My Solar Star solar attic fans (by Solatube) have a static panel mounted into the fan body; however, Solatube has several roof flashings to choose from so that the fan can be mounted for optimal operation. By not having flimsy support legs for their solar panel, Solatube eliminated a potential weak point that could fail. Everyone has an opinion on this topic, but I can say from personal experience that my Solar Star fans have made a HUGE difference in my home with direct impacts to reducing my summertime electric consumption and bills to the power company. Also, the 30% federal tax credit savings were quite a nice bit of money.

http://www.solatubemarketing.com/solar_star/rm_1600_2.jpg
http://www.solatubemarketing.com/solar_star/lowprofile.jpg
http://www.solatubemarketing.com/solar_star/pitched.jpg
http://www.solatubemarketing.com/solar_star/highprofile.jpg

[hotrodgirl]

If you are building, would this be an option thru TV? Or is it necessary to have another company do this for you as an after item addition? Who would you suggest do the installation?

[jimbo2012]

Please keep in mind not all installers understand solar, in this area these are the optimum angles of any panel, ideal is to adjust 4 times a year but we are speaking of summer attic fans here.

Figures shown in degrees from vertical in red are the hot months
Jan 46°
Feb 54°
Mar 62°
Apr 70°
May 78°
June 86°
Jul 78
Aug 70°
Sep 62°
Oct 54°
Nov 46°
Dec 38°

In June the panel is almost flat & Oct 54, or 70° is a good average if fixed.

So if your installer has a protractor it is simple to figure.

And it needs to be a south facing part of the roof.


.I didn't know they had fixed mounts for different angles, nice if done correctly?

[tommy steam]

:smiley:First check the CFM (cubic feet per minute it pushes) of the unit, I think U need about 1000-1500 to make a difference, in electric they cost about $100 plus install.

This one is 1000 cfm at HD for $270

Nice thing is the panels can be set to suns angle, U do not want a flat top unit.

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/300/d8/d87c6a39-7f83-4349-9c47-ea40951494a0_300.jpg

It should face due south about 180 degrees.

this is what you don't want

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/300/87/8703d296-8072-4689-9481-7d384eb18bc0_300.jpg

Jimbo Thanks for the great informatin you have provided on this site. It is helpfull to me and I know to others also. :wave:

[CarGuys]

There is a misperception that the solar attic fans with adjustable panels are the best or work better than other. Not so. My Solar Star solar attic fans (by Solatube) have a static panel mounted into the fan body; however, Solatube has several roof flashings to choose from so that the fan can be mounted for optimal operation. By not having flimsy support legs for their solar panel, Solatube eliminated a potential weak point that could fail. Everyone has an opinion on this topic, but I can say from personal experience that my Solar Star fans have made a HUGE difference in my home with direct impacts to reducing my summertime electric consumption and bills to the power company. Also, the 30% federal tax credit savings were quite a nice bit of money.

http://www.solatubemarketing.com/solar_star/rm_1600_2.jpg
http://www.solatubemarketing.com/solar_star/lowprofile.jpg
http://www.solatubemarketing.com/solar_star/pitched.jpg
http://www.solatubemarketing.com/solar_star/highprofile.jpg

I agree. The argument about drawing air from the near bye vent so the solar fan is a waste of money is not valid either. And this guy is/was a home inspector? A study in thermal dynamics works better. Or Hot air rises.

[buzzy]

I agree. The argument about drawing air from the near bye vent so the solar fan is a waste of money is not valid either. And this guy is/was a home inspector? A study in thermal dynamics works better. Or Hot air rises.

Thanks Car, first response to my post. He was a highly recommended inspector on TOTV, but I kinda hope that he is mistaken about the fans. I want to cool the attic, and particularly to cool the garage for the workshop.

Also, do you think that the radiant heat barrier can be as effective if installed in an existing home? It looks to me that there are many obstacles and inaccessible spots up there.

[jimbo2012]

Also, do you think that the radiant heat barrier can be as effective if installed in an existing home? It looks to me that there are many obstacles and inaccessible spots up there.

Yes it should be, it can be stapled across the roof rafters or between them, just think of them as reflector.

Sold at HD

http://www.radiantbarrierguru.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/radiant-barrier-installation.jpg

Easy DIY for less than $200

http://i.ytimg.com/vi/N0-YD32ujYY/0.jpg

[Redrok]

Does this affect the life of the roofing?

[jimbo2012]

I read;


"Testing done by the Florida Solar Energy Center has shown that roof shingle temperatures do increase between 5 and 10°F when radiant barriers are installed under the roof deck. The color of asphalt shingles has more of an effect on shingle temperature than the presence of a radiant barrier. No shingle manufacturer limits their warranty when combined with a radiant barrier in the roof system."

[jane032657]

Are the tubes and fan eligible for federal tax credit? Or just one or the other? We are thinking about putting in six-two bathrooms, one hallway, over Kitchen Island, in living room and parallel to living room in walkway space, as well as the fan. Any disadvantages to solar tubes, i.e. is it ever too much light?

[Redrok]

I read;


"Testing done by the Florida Solar Energy Center has shown that roof shingle temperatures do increase between 5 and 10°F when radiant barriers are installed under the roof deck. The color of asphalt shingles has more of an effect on shingle temperature than the presence of a radiant barrier. No shingle manufacturer limits their warranty when combined with a radiant barrier in the roof system."
Thanks for the info.

What about installing a vent fan in the ceiling of the garage and exhausting it into the attic? Has anyone done this? Did you also install vents in the garage door to promote circulation?

[jimbo2012]

Thanks for the info.

What about installing a vent fan in the ceiling of the garage and exhausting it into the attic? Has anyone done this? Did you also install vents in the garage door to promote circulation?

I think that's a big fire risk, go thru roof with duct

Are the tubes and fan eligible for federal tax credit? Or just one or the other? We are thinking about putting in six-two bathrooms, one hallway, over Kitchen Island, in living room and parallel to living room in walkway space, as well as the fan. Any disadvantages to solar tubes, i.e. is it ever too much light?

yes, I think so but double check, the tax credit is off your taxes not income, so it's dollar for dollar.

Don't get that many, buy one & see what you think.

disadvantage is a slight loss of heat/cool from ceiling penetration, lightning will be showing flashes at night

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Are the tubes and fan eligible for federal tax credit? Or just one or the other? We are thinking about putting in six-two bathrooms, one hallway, over Kitchen Island, in living room and parallel to living room in walkway space, as well as the fan. Any disadvantages to solar tubes, i.e. is it ever too much light?

Jane, FWIW from The Solar Guys web site:

THE SOLAR GUYS | SOLAR STAR | TAX CREDIT (http://www.thesolarguys.com/solar_attic_fan/solarstar-tax-credit)

For confirmation, check with a tax person or the IRS.

Bill :)

[jane032657]

Jane, FWIW from The Solar Guys web site:

THE SOLAR GUYS | SOLAR STAR | TAX CREDIT (http://www.thesolarguys.com/solar_attic_fan/solarstar-tax-credit)

For confirmation, check with a tax person or the IRS.

Bill :)

Oh yes, I will check with a tax person, silly me, I am married to a CPA!!!!

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Oh yes, I will check with a tax person, silly me, I am married to a CPA!!!!

Ha-ha!! Husbands...........they're sooooo easy to forget, right?

:jester:

Bill :)

[CarGuys]

I read;


"Testing done by the Florida Solar Energy Center has shown that roof shingle temperatures do increase between 5 and 10°F when radiant barriers are installed under the roof deck. The color of asphalt shingles has more of an effect on shingle temperature than the presence of a radiant barrier. No shingle manufacturer limits their warranty when combined with a radiant barrier in the roof system."

That was with the old system that was nailed to the roof, new systems are stapled to the rafters and Florida Roofing and Florida Energy audits showed no danger to any roofing material. When radiant barrier was properly installed by a certified insulation company. Abshire in TV is certified. I trusted my builder. What do you think of Radiant barrier? His answer I Love it it is my home and most green homes now built. Question why does the villages not allow it in a new construction. Answer- Can't make the huge mark up they used to do it. If radiant was bad you would not see it promoted on out Seco Energy Web Site.

[CarGuys]

Thanks Car, first response to my post. He was a highly recommended inspector on TOTV, but I kinda hope that he is mistaken about the fans. I want to cool the attic, and particularly to cool the garage for the workshop.

Also, do you think that the radiant heat barrier can be as effective if installed in an existing home? It looks to me that there are many obstacles and inaccessible spots up there.

Did my home work for months on radiant barrier. When to sites, talked with college green home programs that have experimented with it. Talked to Seco our Fla energy company. Talked to roofing contractors and suppliers. All was positive feedback excet from people that hate it on TOTV. And those you can never win over. I was a immediate drop in the attic. It still gets warm up there but 30 degrees cooler. The Solar Guys endorced the barrier and because of it I did not have to spend money on three large solar fans. One was sufficient. I installed it as a make me feel good vs gotta have it., Jimbo is correct with it you can forget a Solar Fan with radiant. For the money I feel great knowing it is working for free even on cloudy days.

Only bad part of TV is not letting the radiant insulation crews in your home while under construction. It would save us labor!!

[faithfulfrank]

As a licensed Florida Home Inspector, and one who has inspected more then a few homes in The Villages, I will tell you that everything I have read and studied state that Solar powered vents are a bad idea. I know there are companies out there that will tell you different, but one must ask if their info is designed more to make a sale, or is it based on current industry studies.

A typical Attic is designed to pull cooler air passively from the soffits up through either a ridge vent or non-powered roof vents placed close to the ridge. This natural convection works well as long as you have the proper amount of ventilation.

When you install a powered vent, it will take air from the least resistance. This usually is from the already installed ridge vent....thus "short circuiting" the natural convection from the soffits and leaving much of the attic with less air movement.

Worse, sometimes they can produce negative pressure from openings in the living space ceiling and draw CONDITIONED air from the interior of the house into the attic....costing you money. Now this would not happen if you had a completely sealed ceiling, but I have YET to see one. If your ceiling was totally sealed and well insulated, you would then not care about attic temps.

This negative pressure could also cause backdrafting from a water heater and put carbon monoxide into the house.

Studies have shown that powered ventilation may lower the temps up by the ridge by about 10 degrees, but the temps right above the insulation show a drop of less then 5 degrees.

David Butler, author of Optimal Building Systems states that putting the pressure imbalance issue aside, there is simply not a good payback. Let's say one spends around $400/year on A/C. (I know that is low for around here, but bear with me). Ceiling loads typically represent 10 to 25 percent of your cooling costs....which would then be between $25-$100 dollars. It's a well known fact that radiant gain from the roof makes up well over half of the ceiling load, (that is why many folks feel radiant barriers are a good idea in our climate). If you assume a 50% figure, and the difference between your interior temp (let's say 77 degrees) and your lower attic temp drops from let's say 120 degrees to 115 degrees, giving you a delta t of 38 degrees instead of 43 degrees, or about 12%, (given on a 100 degree outdoor temp), cooler days it would be even less. Even if you make the most optimistic assumptions, your savings would come out to be between about $3.00 to $12.00 a year.

When factoring in the short cycling of the air, potential of backdraft, the possibility of drawing in CONDITIONED air into the attic, making another opening in your roof that might leak someday, very low if any payback, my suggestion is to invest your money elsewhere.

This is not just my opinion. Many agencies, like the Florida Solar Energy Center, as well as the American Society of Home Inspectors, etc say basically the same thing.

I apologize for the long post. My only intent is to help by giving some industry info on the subject.

Respectfully, Frank

[Bill-n-Brillo]

FRANK............where the heck have ya been, man?

Bill :)

[CarGuys]

Are the tubes and fan eligible for federal tax credit? Or just one or the other? We are thinking about putting in six-two bathrooms, one hallway, over Kitchen Island, in living room and parallel to living room in walkway space, as well as the fan. Any disadvantages to solar tubes, i.e. is it ever too much light?

I think many of us look at homes and for some reason they seem lighter and brighter? Maybe its out positive energy and enthusiasm to move to TV.

Our house once we were in it for a day or so the wife looked at me and said, Were living in a cave! It is to dark in here.

Were thinking up to 3 -4 Solar tubes.

No tax credit for them but a tax credit on the radiant barrier and solar fans.

[CarGuys]

FRANK............where the heck have ya been, man?

Bill :) In Attics! LOL

[jimbo2012]

A typical Attic is designed to pull cooler air passively from the soffits up through either a ridge vent or non-powered roof vents placed close to the ridge. This natural convection works well as long as you have the proper amount of ventilation.

Agree

When you install a powered vent, it will take air from the least resistance. This usually is from the already installed ridge vent....thus "short circuiting" the natural convection from the soffits and leaving much of the attic with less air movement.

Not saying you're wrong just want to understand, there is more sq" of ventilation area in the soffits than the ridge vents, I think you agree.
Therefore, the least resistance in not the ridge but the soffit, does that make sense?

Worse, sometimes they can produce negative pressure from openings in the living space ceiling and draw CONDITIONED air from the interior of the house into the attic

But those openings would have to have less resistance than then the ridge or soffit I would think.

This negative pressure could also cause backdrafting from a water heater and put carbon monoxide into the house.

That's a stretch, how about using the right size not oversized fan in the first place. Moreover, with that theory those same fumes would exhaust out thu the attic.

Studies have shown that powered ventilation may lower the temps up by the ridge by about 10 degrees, but the temps right above the insulation show a drop of less then 5 degrees.

Can you please point me to those?

Frank, understand I think the radiant barriers are my first choice, my second choice is to seal all the duct work in the attic, than a fan if that doesn't cut it.

Great to have a professional contribute but some of us like to dig deep into silly things like this :highfive:

[faithfulfrank]

Dear Jimbo,
I understand what you are saying.....I do not disagree, but I think that even though there is more sq ft of sofitt perhaps, there may still be less resistance from the closer ridge vents is some cases.

As to the backdraft situation, it has actually happened and is not too much of a stretch. I've inspected many homes where just having the bath vents and exterior exhausting range hood going caused a backdraft situation on a gas water heater or furnace. You could actually see it fogging a mirror when held next to the draft vent of the heater. With homes being tighter now it happens easier then when homes were more drafty.

As you asked, here are some interesting articles on the subject of not using powered attic ventilators.....

Home Energy Magazine :: Drawbacks Of Powered Attic Ventilators (http://tinyurl.com/4xwgc8d)
Advanced Energy (http://tinyurl.com/m7nrq)
http://tinyurl.com/66qq8jv

Hope you enjoy them, they are interesting.

BTW, I think the solar tubes are great in some homes, as long as they are quality ones and installed properly so as to not cause a roof leak.

Respectfully, Frank

[CarGuys]

Dear Jimbo,

BTW, I think the solar tubes are great in some homes, as long as they are quality ones and installed properly so as to not cause a roof leak.

Respectfully, Frank

Frank- I love you man! :D

[jane032657]

Dear Jimbo,
I understand what you are saying.....I do not disagree, but I think that even though there is more sq ft of sofitt perhaps, there may still be less resistance from the closer ridge vents is some cases.

As to the backdraft situation, it has actually happened and is not too much of a stretch. I've inspected many homes where just having the bath vents and exterior exhausting range hood going caused a backdraft situation on a gas water heater or furnace. You could actually see it fogging a mirror when held next to the draft vent of the heater. With homes being tighter now it happens easier then when homes were more drafty.

As you asked, here are some interesting articles on the subject of not using powered attic ventilators.....

Home Energy Magazine :: Drawbacks Of Powered Attic Ventilators (http://tinyurl.com/4xwgc8d)
Advanced Energy (http://tinyurl.com/m7nrq)
http://tinyurl.com/66qq8jv

Hope you enjoy them, they are interesting.

BTW, I think the solar tubes are great in some homes, as long as they are quality ones and installed properly so as to not cause a roof leak.

Respectfully, Frank

D0 you think the Solar Guys are a quality product and just to summarize as I do not understand all teh psts, is a solar fan a goo or bad idea? Just basic language for me please.

[jimbo2012]

is a solar fan a goo or bad idea? Just basic language for me please.

Frank says no Carguys says yes, I think yes, but the first thing to install is a radiant barrier in the attic, if not satisfied then the fan.

But if I install a fan it will be ducted down near the attic floor to mitigate any short cycling.

[jane032657]

Frank says no Carguys says yes, I think yes, but the first thing to install is a radiant barrier in the attic, if not satisfied then the fan.

But if I install a fan it will be ducted down near the attic floor to mitigate any short cycling.

My understanding is a cooler attic is a cooler house? No one is hanging out in their attics so I am just trying to ascertain the exact reason to put anything in the attic to keep it cool, aside from obvious reasons to keep air circulating to maintain the things you keep up there? I am getting a little lost on this discussion and I scored 15/100 on mechanical reason so I am struggling with all this.

[faithfulfrank]

Jane,
Mine is only one opinion, and I certainly do not intend to criticize any other business here. To answer your question, yes, I do think their solar tubes are a quality product. If I were having one installed by someone, I think I would strongly consider them, as they do a lot of work here, and I would assume they would stand by their work.

I have seen too many times when someone hires a fly by night, unlicensed, uninsured contractor who does substandard work and by the time problems show, they are long gone. Doing business with a company that has strong roots in the area is almost always a good idea.

My personal home faces 115 degrees southeast and has a floorplan that seems to lend itself to having bright, open rooms. I have neighbors whose homes seem to just be dark......then they have solar tubes installed and they look great and change the whole look of the house. I like solar tubes MUCH better then regular skylights, which can be prone to their own set of problems.

So to answer your question, my personal opinion is Solar Tubes can be a nice addition to homes that have dark rooms. They should be installed properly by trained people to minimize the chance of a roof leak.

I personally would NOT buy solar powered vent fans for my home for the reasons stated in my earlier posts.

I hope that helps.

Respectfully, Frank

[jimbo2012]

The attic can get very hot, 120-maybe 160 degrees.

That heat is what you want to lower with the items already mentioned.

If you don't you will use more energy $$$ cooling

So yes "your understanding is a cooler attic is a cooler house"

[jane032657]

Jane,
Mine is only one opinion, and I certainly do not intend to criticize any other business here. To answer your question, yes, I do think their solar tubes are a quality product. If I were having one installed by someone, I think I would strongly consider them, as they do a lot of work here, and I would assume they would stand by their work.

I have seen too many times when someone hires a fly by night, unlicensed, uninsured contractor who does substandard work and by the time problems show, they are long gone. Doing business with a company that has strong roots in the area is almost always a good idea.

My personal home faces 115 degrees southeast and has a floorplan that seems to lend itself to having bright, open rooms. I have neighbors whose homes seem to just be dark......then they have solar tubes installed and they look great and change the whole look of the house. I like solar tubes MUCH better then regular skylights, which can be prone to their own set of problems.

So to answer your question, my personal opinion is Solar Tubes can be a nice addition to homes that have dark rooms. They should be installed properly by trained people to minimize the chance of a roof leak.

I personally would NOT buy solar powered vent fans for my home for the reasons stated in my earlier posts.

I hope that helps.

Respectfully, Frank

Thank you. We face SW, we get nice light in our home but there are certain spots like bathrooms and a hallway with no windows that only have electric lights. I also things a few other places could use some mroe natural light. I like a happy environment and sunshine to me and natural light is happy. Thank you all for your explanations.

[jimbo2012]

Sorry to throw a monkey wrench into this topic but no one mentioned roof color.

If you have white or a lite color you beat out fans and radiant barriers

read more (http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/publications/html/FSEC-PF-336-98/index.htm) from Fl solar energy.

[CaptJohn]

My understanding is a cooler attic is a cooler house? No one is hanging out in their attics so I am just trying to ascertain the exact reason to put anything in the attic to keep it cool, aside from obvious reasons to keep air circulating to maintain the things you keep up there? I am getting a little lost on this discussion and I scored 15/100 on mechanical reason so I am struggling with all this.

Yes, a cooler attic is a cooler house. Even with all the insulation mentioned in previous posts, the attic heat (as much as 150 degrees or so) will transfer down the studs into the walls, so less heat is less transfer. The answers can be simple but a lot depends on the type roof you have (hip or gable). I have on my house and believe in the powered attic fan (or gable fan as appropriate) and think the solar fan does not have enough power to pull enough air out, especially if you have ridge vents. My fan is both manual and automatic so I can control it. I have also sealed my roof with white elastomeric sealant and that alone has reduced the temps by at least 20 degrees on the hottest of days. The roof fans, solar or powered, will not work as well if you have the ridge vents for the reasons posted. Absent the roof ridge vent, they will pull from just the soffits and produce better air flow if the proper cfm (cubic feet of air movement) is obtained. Back in the 50's or so, most Florida houses had white roofs when there was no air conditioning. I know as I grew up in Florida then. It was the standard. Apologies if this has added to the confusion!

[jane032657]

Well I gambled and went with the 22 inch solar attic fan and put in five solar tubes, two in the Master bath, one in the guest bath, one in the laundry and one in the kitchen. One day I will let you know how it all works. We have a red roof. i appreciate all the input, it is all so interesting, the diversity of opinion. I like the idea of solar and was at a house party for Canada Day in Seattle that was solar powered. It swayed me to try it. If it does not work I will re-read all these posts and try another idea!

[dkrhardy]

Sorry to throw a monkey wrench into this topic but no one mentioned roof color.

If you have white or a lite color you beat out fans and radiant barriers

read more (http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/publications/html/FSEC-PF-336-98/index.htm) from Fl solar energy.

So with a light colored roof, you benefit more than the barriers and fans can provide with a darker roof? What about a light roof AND the barrier/fan combo? Sure seems like that would be the best of all.
Don

[onbjames]

I'll start off by saying this is our first summer in The Villages, and to thank every one for the info here, and that we are loving it!
My problem is the hot garage, I like spending time out there, my man cave and all.
I have talked to two contractors and got two choices.
One, vent the bottem of the garage doors, and install a power vent in the garage ceiling, pulling the warm air from the garage into the attic. Cost about $525. This work would be covered under the permit we have in effect from the solar light they just installed. By the way the solar light is great!
The other option is a solar powered vent with a duct pulling the warm air from the garage to the atmosphere. Cost about $900 plus another $65 for another permit.
Any opinions??
Frank, I would realy like your input.

[batman911]

I'll start off by saying this is our first summer in The Villages, and to thank every one for the info here, and that we are loving it!
My problem is the hot garage, I like spending time out there, my man cave and all.
I have talked to two contractors and got two choices.
One, vent the bottem of the garage doors, and install a power vent in the garage ceiling, pulling the warm air from the garage into the attic. Cost about $525. This work would be covered under the permit we have in effect from the solar light they just installed. By the way the solar light is great!
The other option is a solar powered vent with a duct pulling the warm air from the garage to the atmosphere. Cost about $900 plus another $65 for another permit.
Any opinions??
Frank, I would realy like your input.


I believe the air in the attic is hotter than in the garage. Why not just open the garage door and install a ceiling fan?

[jimbo2012]

Maybe against the building code to exhaust ait into attic, but you can use a small duct thru roof, then cut vents into bottom of door for intake or just open it.

The air near the bottom of the door should be cooler than the top.

[onbjames]

Well, they convinced me to go with the door vents and power vent in garage ceiling. Installed today. They claim this unit will actually keep the attic cooler as well as the garage. I can stand in front of the door vents and feel a good bit of draft. I will post my opinion of the results.

[jimbo2012]

Is the fan going into the attic or thru the roof

[John_W]

My neighbor had the garage ceiling attic fan installed along with garage door vents, he paid $300 and gave me the guys card and said he has done many. Instead I just had the horizontal screen door sliders installed for $850 on my 12' garage door, I figured that would be even better yet. Also, my wife is out there a lot since the W/D is in the garage.

If you're going to be working in the garage why have the door down, this way it's the same temperature as outside and I don't have to worry about bugs, snakes or gators. I had one neighbor already find a rattlesnake in his garage. I also leave the attic stairs pulled down about a foot and I can feel a good breeze going through. Since this has happened we have raised our inside thermostat a degree.

[cherylncliff]

We had a home energy audit by SECO. The inspector said that attic fans can help lower the attic temperature but from a $ savings perspective, they are not worth the investment. That is, it does not save you much on your electric bill nor does it prolong the life of the roof. His recommendation was to prop the access door to the attic open and leave the garage door open a few inches and let the natural thermal circulation do its job.

I can't give you any facts but we chose not to get the fans.

[jimbo2012]

We had a home energy audit by SECO. The inspector said that attic fans can help lower the attic temperature but from a $ savings perspective, they are not worth the investment. That is, it does not save you much on your electric bill nor does it prolong the life of the roof.

A 1500 cfm fan cost about $150 a year to run. Based on $0.125 per kWh, forgot what our rate is, so that may be +-

I think the offset in AC costs should offset that, but beyond that the garage is now a improved living/work space.

If the fan was solar the payback is 3-4 years then free.

His recommendation was to prop the access door to the attic open and leave the garage door open a few inches and let the natural thermal circulation do its job.

How does that work for keeping pests out, it don't.

.

[gomoho]

Had the roof replaced this week on our 4 year old home (owens corning issue) and the roofers said we had more than enough ventilation with our ridge vents. So since we have nothing in the attic and I was ecstatic with our last electric bill I'm not sure what all that extra stuff would accomplish. I think you need to be careful here that you don't get sucked into the latest and greatest. If you think something might be a good idea give yourself some time to think about it, the cost, and the return on your investment. I am new here (6+ weeks now) but when I walk my neighborhood I am amazed how you will find a group of homes with some "extra stuff" added on. Think it is a situation of "oh my, that looks like a good idea" not so much do I really need that???

[tambo100]

Just like you, we were talked into the fan as we were getting solar tubes in first house. We didn't see any difference. We thought they never did it or the fan wasn't working.

On our second house, Steve Lighthouse(home inspector) said forget the attic fan as they don't help. However loved the solar tubes. They made a big difference.

It is a shame you do not believe the solar fans worked on your home. I know for a fact that the Solar Star solar attic fans by Solatube work on my home, as well as on my garage. As for the home inspector, I have talked to numerous inspectors that support the use of attic fans. Solar powered simply make more sense financially than electric ones, not to mention that the Solar Star fans are absolutely whisper quiet. That is a win-win for me and my family.

Just saying from my personal experiences.

[faithfulfrank]

I'll start off by saying this is our first summer in The Villages, and to thank every one for the info here, and that we are loving it!
My problem is the hot garage, I like spending time out there, my man cave and all.
I have talked to two contractors and got two choices.
One, vent the bottem of the garage doors, and install a power vent in the garage ceiling, pulling the warm air from the garage into the attic. Cost about $525. This work would be covered under the permit we have in effect from the solar light they just installed. By the way the solar light is great!
The other option is a solar powered vent with a duct pulling the warm air from the garage to the atmosphere. Cost about $900 plus another $65 for another permit.
Any opinions??
Frank, I would really like your input.

Please forgive me for my late response.
The main reason for me not endorsing a powered attic vent fan is the possibility of "short cycling".
The topic of ventilation is as you can read here is complex. Things are not always cut and dry. Sometimes when you do something in your home for one reason, albeit good, it can compromise other systems.

For instance, installing a vent on the bottom of your garage door and opening the attic hatch a bit WILL allow cooler air to be drawn up into the attic, thus having a cooling affect.....but does this have any negative consequences? I would have to say yes, in that it could very well compromise wind mitigation ratings, as this could cause negative pressure during a hurricane, thus compromising the hurricane rating of the garage door. Opening the garage door is an option, but then as stated pests can get in. I"ve noticed some folks in my neighborhood have screened in garages where they keep the screen door closed and keep the garage door up a bit. They may also keep their garage walk in door open allowing airflow in the home...I do not know.

Sometimes things are gray, and not black and white. My own home has vents installed on the plywood part of the attic stairs. If I had a fire in my garage, this would clearly be the first area where the fire could reach the attic. It would clearly negate the fire rating of the drywall ceiling.....but then again, so does the thin 1/4" plywood door of the attic stair. Yes, they do make fire rated attic stairs, but you hardly see them, as they are much more costly.

Opening a garage window a bit and "cracking" the attic hatch would cause more cool air to get to the attic....would it make that much difference? I do not know. I do know that when I open my attic steps and climb up when the garage door is open I DO feel cool air rushing up into the attic, but really, I have to assume that this is constantly happening by the soffits, but I cannot easily stand by them to see.

Folks can and will debate this topic forever....but suffice to say that your roof is designed to continuously have cool air drawn into the attic thru the soffits, and have hot air continually expelled through the ridge vent. It would not keep me up at night.

Now if you really want to confuse the issue, you can throw into the conversation the concept of complete insulated encapsulated foamed attic systems where NO venting is the norm and all of the insulation is foamed onto the bottom of the roof decking.....

(Sorry, I could not resist....)

Respectfully, Frank

[Paperboy]

I AGREE with tambo 100. We have a 1500 sq. ft. cottage home with a solar attic fan & a dehumidistat (set@60 for humidity & 85 for air). Electric bill was $24.02 last mo. & $21.13 the mo. prior!!!!!! We are snow birds.