Want to keep your home cool in the hot, summer months without having to empty your wallet? Attic fans are a great, inexpensive way to make your air conditioner more efficient and slash your utility bills. Attics can reach 150 degrees or more in the summer, especially in hot locations like Phoenix or Tampa (yikes!). To beat the heat, install an attic fan which will pull in the outside air and force out the hot attic air, lowering your air conditioning cost by 20% or more.

Cost to Install an Attic Fan

The cost of an electric fan and its installation is relatively low. Once installed, an attic fan requires almost no maintenance. Additionally, over time, an attic fan will reduce the amount of money you need to spend on roof maintenance due to heat-damaged damaged shingles. (Asphalt shingles may develop curled-up corners or bulges, both signs of a too-hot attic.)

Cost of an electric fan kit: between $80 and $450, depending on the size, number of blades, quality, and noise level.

Cost of a solar-powered fan: between $350 and $800, if you’re looking to save on operation costs and prefer green energy.

Cost to hire a licensed electrician near you: between $50 and $100 an hour (excluding trip fees and supplies) to install an attic fan, depending on the location, ease of access, and complexity of the project.

Depending on the style of your roof, you may need to hire a professional roofer to install a ledge or mounting surface on which to place the fan. Alternatively, a hole may need to be made in your roof within which the fan is placed, and this needs to be properly insulated. This will add to the cost of your project.

Home Cooling Tips

1. Fan thermostat. Choose an attic fan with a thermostat, which you can set to go on and off at certain temperatures so that your fan will only run when necessary.
   
   
2. Proper insulation. Without proper insulation, a large amount of cool air will escape and be lost, and hot air will seep into the rest of your home. In the winter the converse effect will occur, raising your heating bills.
   
   
3. Ventilation. During the cold months, improper venting may lead to moisture buildup, which can rot your entire roof, if it's not able to escape. In the summer months, stagnant hot air will dry out roof supports. Increase ventilation by installing gable, soffit, and other roof vents.

Whether you opt for an electric- or solar-powered fan, you’ll be doing a great service to your home as well as your family. Not only will you stay cool, you’ll also save a lot of money.