Solar attic fans, powered by the sun’s energy, are a sustainable solution to enhance indoor comfort. By expelling hot air and moisture, they prevent heat buildup, reduce HVAC strain, and contribute to a greener environment. In this guide, we will explore the best solar attic fans in the market and help you make an informed purchase decision.
Best Solar Attic Fans
A good solar powered ventilation fan can lower the temperature by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit, giving you a comfortable room without any hassle. Plus, it’s a long-lasting investment that can serve you for many years without needing replacements.
But remember, not all attic fans are the same. Some might not meet your needs as expected. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. The list below will assist you in selecting the best solar attic fans.
1. Natural Light Solar Attic Fan
Let’s start by discussing one of the best solar attic fans on the market – the offering from Natural Light. This brand has been generating a lot of buzz lately, and its solar attic fan plays a significant role in its growing popularity. While the package doesn’t include a thermostat, it’s worth noting that Natural Light does offer thermostats for separate purchases, enhancing your convenience and control.
This solar-powered ventilation fan is designed to be mounted on your roof and boasts both an appealing aesthetic and a construction of high-quality materials. Crafted from stainless steel, it’s built to withstand tough conditions, ensuring exceptional durability and a lengthy lifespan. You won’t have to fret about adverse weather affecting its performance. Additionally, its potency translates to an impressive 1881 CFM of venting capacity, making it suitable for ventilating substantial attic spaces spanning up to 2,825 square feet.
Highlights:
- Powerful 48 Watts motor
- Stylish and aesthetically pleasing design
- Generous 25-year warranty period
2. Remington Solar Attic Fan
Moving on to our next contender in the best solar attic fan lineup, we have a truly user-friendly option that can also save you the expense of hiring a professional. The Remington Solar Attic Fan boasts an array of features that make it an enticing choice for consideration.
First and foremost, let’s talk about its appearance – a feature that’s bound to capture your attention. This solar powered ventilation fan is constructed using durable steel and presents an aesthetically pleasing design. What’s more, you have the freedom to choose between two classic colors, black and grey, to match your preferences.
When it comes to performance, the Remington Fan doesn’t disappoint. With its 20 Watts motor, it’s perfectly suited for smaller to medium-sized attics, homes, and even greenhouse areas. This motor generates a fan speed of 1280 CFM, effectively catering to larger spaces spanning up to 2,000 square feet. Remington solar attic fan comes in various wattages (20, 25, 30 Watts), allowing you to select the power level that best aligns with your specific needs.
Highlights:
- Brushless motor for enhanced durability and quiet operation
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- It is one of the top solar powered attic fans with a thermostat that also has a humidistat for automated climate control
- Impressive 15-year replaceable guarantee
Also See: Do Ceiling Fans Save Energy in Winter?
3. QuietCool Solar Attic Fan
Let’s start by delving into the fascinating power features of the QuietCool solar attic fan. It boasts a robust 30-Watt motor and a strong presence. Placing this powerhouse on your attic’s roof ensures optimal temperatures for medium to large attics, a true game-changer.
When it comes to fan speed, the QuietCool doesn’t disappoint, whether you’re using the DC or AC power mode. Harnessing the sun’s energy through a solar panel yields an impressive fan speed of 1486 CFM. Alternatively, when relying on AC power, a more than sufficient 1320 CFM ensures efficient ventilation.
Durability and sturdiness are where the QuietCool fan sets itself apart from the competition. Its complete metal body adds substantial weight, contributing to its longevity and resilience. And fear not, this weight doesn’t complicate installation; setting up the QuietCool fan is a breeze. What’s more, you have the flexibility to adjust and tilt the solar panel by up to 60 degrees, tailoring it to your precise needs. Due to all these reasons, it is among the best solar powered attic fans.
Highlights:
- Option to operate with both AC and DC power
- Durable complete metal body construction
- Generous 15-year warranty period
As with any product, there are some aspects to note:
- The motor emits a certain level of sound
4. Amtrak Solar Attic Fan
Are you searching for an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality? If so, the Amtrak Solar Powerful Attic Fan should not be overlooked. It is among the best solar powered attic fans in the budget section.
With 14-inch medium-sized blades and a high torque motor boasting a robust 50 Watts of power, this fan effectively covers a substantial area of 2250 square feet. Its wide coverage makes it suitable not only for medium-sized attics but also for larger spaces like attics and workplaces. Keep in mind that the motor’s power does result in some noise, given its 50 Watt output.
Setting up the Amtrak solar attic fan is hassle-free and energy-efficient. In addition to the fan itself, you’ll also receive installation materials such as wires and brackets, eliminating the need for extra expenditures.
Highlights:
- Powerful 50 Watt motor
- Budget-friendly choice
- Generous 25-year warranty period
Also Read: Are Solar Attic Fans Worth It: Pros and Cons
5. ECO-WORTHY Solar Attic Fan
Here’s another wallet-friendly choice from our best solar attic fan lineup. If you’re looking to stick to a tight budget without compromising on quality, the ECO-WORTHY solar attic fan is a solid contender worth considering. Let’s dive in for a closer look. One of the standout features of the ECO-WORTHY fan is its consistent efficiency even under low voltage conditions. Operating with a mere 4V motor voltage, it ensures that your indoor temperature remains stable even during periods of weak sunlight.
Installation of this wall-mounted solar attic fan is a breeze, requiring just 15-30 minutes of your time to set up. This straightforward process guarantees optimal temperature control throughout the years. To make things even simpler, the package includes additional components like solar cables and brackets, facilitating a hassle-free setup.
As for the warranty period, ECO-WORTHY hasn’t provided a specific duration in their statements. While this might raise a small flag of concern, it’s worth noting that the company emphasizes friendly customer support and a commitment to replacing parts as needed.
Highlights:
- Performs well even under 4V conditions
- Its motor generates an impressive fan speed of 1200 CFM
- Ideal for small to medium-sized attics and garages
- Solar panel with adjustable angle, ranging from 25 to 45 degrees
- User-friendly installation
However, there’s a point to be aware of:
- Unclear statement regarding warranty duration
6. Blaster Solar Attic Fan
The Blaster Solar Attic Fan brings a unique and innovative touch. This fan is designed to be mounted on the roof, providing distinctive benefits. It provides the best brand solar attic fans. Equipped with a compact 3-watt solar panel, its power output is relatively modest. However, as previously mentioned, achieving the desired performance would entail purchasing multiple units.
With this power capacity, each solar powered ventilation fan can effectively cover an area of approximately 600 square feet. This makes it an ideal solution for smaller attic spaces. What’s particularly appealing is the fan’s almost silent operation, ensuring it won’t cause any disturbances.
Constructed from heavy-duty metal, it boasts durability that guarantees the fan’s resilience even in challenging weather conditions. Furthermore, installing the fan is a hassle-free process, with no need for any attic involvement.
Highlights:
- Affordable choice
- Quiet motor operation
- Generous 25-year warranty period
However, there is one aspect to note:
- Multiple units are needed for a complete setup.
Also Read: 3 Best Solar Panel Roof Mounting Systems
7. BROAN
If you’re seeking an affordable option, consider the Broan-NuTone 345SOWW Surface Mount Attic Solar Fan. This is one of the best quality brand solar attic fans that keeps costs down by using plastic materials, allowing you to achieve the desired ventilation without breaking the bank. Due to its reasonable price and material quality, this solar attic fan comes with a shorter warranty compared to some other choices.
Regrettably, this model has a relatively lower CFM (cubic feet per minute) output when compared to other models we’ve tested, which means it might not be as efficient in terms of airflow. Additionally, it lacks features like a thermostat, humidistat, or hybrid electric capabilities.
Nonetheless, for a smaller space, it can serve as a satisfactory solution in a pinch. One aspect we were less impressed with is its aesthetic appeal. The plastic construction is somewhat unappealing visually, giving it a cheaper appearance compared to other fans available in the market.
Highlights:
- Designed for roof mounting
- Constructed with plastic materials
- Powered by 28 Watts
- Yields 537 CFM airflow
- Backed by a 6-year warranty
8. YELLOWBLUE
Yellowblue Solar Fans is one of the most technically advanced solar attic fans available in the market. Crafted by experts in aerodynamic engineering and composed of top-tier materials, these solar fans are undoubtedly poised to enhance the ventilation quality in any given space.
The Yellowblue range encompasses various fan types. It encompasses the expected choices like standard gable-mounted, roof-mounted, and portable models. However, they’ve gone beyond the norm, catering to specific needs with a version tailored for roofs in snowy regions with S tiles. There’s even a model where the fan and solar panel are distinct components. Adding a twist to their lineup, their tilted model rests on a 360-degree rotating platform to maximize exposure to sunlight.
Yellowblue products share a limitation: interested buyers must reach out to an authorized dealer to make a purchase. This could be a bit inconvenient, especially for those residing in remote locales.
Product Highlights:
- Equipped with a 20-Watt Power Source
- Utilizes a Brushless DC Motor
- Delivers 900 CFM Airflow
- Backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty
Also Read: How to Use a Solar Panel to Power a Fan
9. iLIVING
If you’re exploring alternatives, the iLIVING HYBRID Ready Smart Thermostat Solar Roof Attic Exhaust Fan is certainly worth considering. This is one of the top solar powered attic fans with thermostat essential for your cooling needs.
Equipped with a robust and adjustable 20W polycrystalline solar panel, this fan is also designed to withstand water, certified with an IP68 waterproof rating. Fueled by a brushless motor, it offers a cooling capacity that spans up to 2000 square feet. It’s worth mentioning that one notable downside we discovered is that it can generate a bit of noise. Additionally, there have been occasional reports of shutter closure issues, although our experience did not encounter any such problems.
Product Highlights:
- Designed for Roof Mounting
- Powered by 20 Watts
- Generates 1750 CFM Airflow
- Offers Hybrid and Thermostat Options
- Supported by a 15-Year Warranty
10. US Sunlight Solar Attic fan
The US Sunlight solar fan has gained considerable popularity among both homeowners and contractors. Its strong brand recognition is underscored by its availability at major retailers such as Home Depot, Lowes, and Costco, making it easily accessible without any hassle.
This rooftop-mounted model showcases a clever design with a tilted solar panel, aimed at maximizing exposure to sunlight. Our findings indicate that a single fan can effectively ventilate a relatively spacious attic spanning up to 2600 cubic feet – a significant advantage.
However, it is one of the best quality brand solar attic fans, there are a few limitations to note. The US Sunlight solar fans are exclusively compatible with shingled roofs. If your roof type is slate, flat, or tile, this particular model wouldn’t suit your needs. Moreover, it lacks the hybrid electric capabilities found in some of its competitors. Nonetheless, if your roof is shingled, this fan stands as a commendable option, especially considering its price point.
Product Highlights:
- Designed for Roof Mounting
- Constructed from Galvanized Steel
- Powered by 25 Watts
- Capable of Ventilating up to 2,600 Cubic Feet
11. Kennedy Solar Attic Fan
The Roof-Mounted Solar Attic Fan from Kennedy Skylights offers a remarkable array of choices for tailoring to your preferences. What stands out is the variety of solar panel options – you can opt for 16, 32, 35, 48, or 65-Watt versions, ensuring you find the ideal match for your specific requirements.
This solar powered ventilation fan boasts compatibility with diverse roof types and notably includes an aluminum screen to shield against potential damage from rodents. Furthermore, it provides the flexibility to enhance your setup with extras like a thermal snap switch or remote solar panel. A noteworthy aspect is that Kennedy Skylights backs your investment with a lifetime warranty, providing exceptional peace of mind.
With these versatile customization possibilities and the added assurance of a comprehensive warranty, this solar attic fan truly emerges as one of the finest options available.
Highlights:
- Designed for Roof Mounting
- Available Power Range: 16 to 65 Watts
- Airflow Range: 1,184 to 2,105 CFM
- Backed by a Lifetime Warranty
Also Read: 22 Best Solar Products For Everyday Life
12. AIR VENT
Air Vent Inc. presents a collection of noteworthy solar attic fans within its online offerings. Their range includes options for both roof-mounted and gable-mounted fans. Specifically, the roof-mounted models present an interesting feature: the choice to purchase the panel and fan components separately.
When making your selection, consider the dimensions of your attic. This will guide you toward choosing between the 10-Watt and 25-Watt variants based on what suits your space. Regardless of your choice, it’s reassuring to note that the product is safeguarded by a 20-year limited warranty, providing coverage in case of any unexpected issues.
It’s important to note that these solar powered ventilation fans are exclusively compatible with shingled roofs. Additionally, they lack the hybrid electric capabilities found in some alternatives.
Highlights:
- Suitable for Roof or Gable Mounting
- Power Range: 10 to 25 Watts
- Airflow Range: 800 to 1820 CFM
- Covered by a 20-Year Limited Warranty
13. Master Flow ERV6 Roof-Mount Power Attic Vent
The Master Flow ERV6 emerges as a strong contender for a roof-mounted attic fan, primarily due to its unobtrusive low-profile dome, integrated thermostat, and dependable performance. Unlike passive ridge vents, this power vent attic fan actively circulates air, achieving rates of up to 1,500 CFM and effectively covering a larger area. Its capabilities make it one of the best solar powered attic fans with thermostat, even for generously sized attic spaces extending up to 2,800 square feet.
Concerns about the visual impact often dissuade homeowners from opting for roof-mount attic fans. If aesthetics are a priority for you, it’s worth noting that the Master Flow ERV6’s dome is available in four distinct shades, allowing it to harmonize with your shingle color seamlessly. Irrespective of the chosen hue, it’s noteworthy that this attic fan boasts a construction of galvanized steel, enhancing its durability. Additionally, a robust internal screen serves to prevent animals from utilizing the attic fan as an entry point.
It’s essential to mention that while the thermostat is adjustable and user-friendly, reviewers point out that a separate purchase is necessary to acquire a humidistat. Furthermore, it’s important to note that this attic fan doesn’t come with an app or remote control for adjusting settings. Nonetheless, many individuals find satisfaction in the fan’s other crucial attributes, such as its ease of installation and relatively quiet operation.
Highlights:
- Dimensions: 25 x 25 x 9 inches
- Air Volume: 1,500 CFM
- Type: Roof mount
- Coverage Area: 2,800 sq. ft.
Also See: 5 Best PWM Solar Charge Controller
14. Maxx Air Cool Attic 1300 CFM Power Gable Mount Attic Vent
Opting for the best quality brand solar attic fan with a thermostat brings about enhanced efficiency. Such a fan intelligently operates only when necessary, rather than expending constant energy on air circulation. While certain attic fans can be paired with a supplementary thermostat, the simpler route is to select one that comes with a prewired thermostat. This holds for the highly regarded gable mount model offered by Maxx Air. It is thus among the best solar gable attic fans.
This fan’s adjustable thermostat offers the convenience of setting a preferred temperature range between 50 and 120 degrees. When the temperature within your attic crosses this predetermined threshold, the fan springs into action. To gain greater influence over the fan’s operating conditions, you have the option to upgrade the thermostat to a combination thermostat/humidistat unit. However, this entails a separate purchase and minor adjustments on your part.
Interestingly, the primary concern raised by users regarding this attic fan doesn’t pertain to the thermostat. Instead, it revolves around the fitting and finish of the mounting hardware and fan blades. Some reviewers encountered issues where the fan blades came into contact with the bolts of the mounting bracket. However, with a bit of blade adjustment or replacement bolts, this predicament is usually remedied without much hassle.
Highlights:
- Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 5.875 inches
- Air Volume: 1,300 CFM
- Type: Gable mount
- Coverage Area: 1,850 sq. ft.
15. QuietCool AFG PRO-2.0 2-Speed Gable Mount Attic Fan
The QuietCool 2-Speed Gable Mount Attic Fan is designed to bring simplicity, energy efficiency, and durability to your attic ventilation needs. Its seamless installation process, coupled with the convenience of a prewired thermostat, positions it as a favored choice and our top recommendation for most households seeking an attic fan solution. For most users, the high-speed setting is likely to be satisfactory, generating a maximum airflow of 1,945 CFM and effectively ventilating spaces of up to 4,000 square feet.
This electric gable mount attic fan operates on a PCS (Permanent Split Capacitor) motor, a feature that translates to reduced energy consumption compared to non-PCS alternatives. Moreover, this motor design incorporates fewer moving parts, bolstering its overall longevity.
The installation procedure is user-friendly and includes rubber mounting pads, a detail praised by reviewers for its notable contribution to noise reduction testament to the QuietCool brand’s commitment to quality. The thermostat boasts adjustability, offering intervals of 10 degrees Fahrenheit from 50 to 120 degrees. It is thus regarded as one of the best solar gable attic fans.
The primary consideration when opting for this attic fan is the limitation of not having smart features. Unlike other QuietCool models that offer Bluetooth compatibility for adjusting fan settings via a smart device, this particular model lacks such capabilities. However, for those who value a straightforward, plug-and-play attic fan experience, this offering provides substantial value.
Highlights:
- Dimensions: 20 x 18 x 11 inches
- Air Volume: 1,945 CFM
- Type: Gable mount
- Coverage Area: 4,000 sq. ft.
16. Pumplus Solar Attic Fan
Concluding our list is another robust and traditional attic fan. The Pumplus solar fan, designed to be wall-mounted, boasts a respectable 30-Watt motor. The fan’s 12.5-inch blade forms a compatible partnership with the motor, resulting in a high-speed rotation that generates an impressive 1486 CFM. With this level of performance, the fan effectively covers an expansive area of 3223 square feet.
Installation is a breeze, as the necessary materials are conveniently included in the package. You’ll also receive clear instructions to guide you through the straightforward installation process.
This cost-effective solar powered ventilation fan gets the job done effectively. However, it’s worth noting that a few individuals have observed a decline in quality over time.
Highlights:
- User-friendly installation
- Metal blades for added durability
On the flip side:
- Quality may not meet high expectations
Also Read: Top 20 Solar Panel Manufacturers in the World
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Solar Attic Fan
Just learning about the best solar attic fans won’t do. Selecting the right solar attic fan involves several important considerations to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Type
The layout and construction of your home play a significant role in determining the most suitable type of solar attic fan. Let’s delve into the three distinct types of solar attic fans:
a) Gable-Mounted
If your house features a gable vent, a gable-mounted solar attic fan could be the perfect fit. Its installation is remarkably straightforward – just attach the unit to your gable and plug it in. This convenience sets it apart from the more complex roof-mounted option.
However, there is a trade-off. While gable-mounted fans are easy to install, their efficiency slightly lags behind that of roof-mounted fans due to their positioning. Precise placement is vital to maximizing sun exposure, a bit challenging given the gable mounting. Despite this, a well-placed gable-mounted solar attic fan can significantly enhance your attic’s ventilation.
b) Roof-Mounted
Roof-mounted solar attic fans are known for their efficiency and robust performance, but they require a more intricate installation process. This involves creating a vent hole in your roof, installing the fan, and securely sealing the opening. As a result, the installation procedure can be time-consuming. Given the complexity, many opt to hire professionals for roof-mounted fan installation, which can elevate the overall costs.
Despite the installation challenges, roof-mounted models stand out as some of the best solar attic fans. Their prime placement on the roof allows them to harness maximum sunlight exposure, translating to heightened efficiency. The long-term energy savings often offset the initial installation cost.
Also See: 6 Best Roof Material For Solar Panels
c) Portable:
For those who value versatility, portable solar fans offer an excellent solution. These fans consist of separate components – the fan and the solar panel – interconnected by wires. Their setup requires minimal effort and lacks the complexities of other options. You can position them virtually anywhere.
While portable solar fans effectively ventilate spaces, their adaptability and straightforward installation make them particularly well-suited for smaller areas such as sheds and RVs. Their portability is also a boon for outdoor enthusiasts, as they can be brought along for camping trips to ensure a cool environment.
However, it’s worth noting that portable solar fans trade some power for versatility. While they still deliver decent performance, they might not match the ventilation quality of their gable-mounted or roof-mounted counterparts.
2. Airflow Capacity
An important factor influencing the performance of an attic fan is the volume of air it can move. This metric is quantified in CFM (cubic feet per minute) and is dictated by the fan’s operational speed. According to Lane Dixon from Aire Serv, typical attic fans generate airflow ranging from 800 to 1,600 CFM. Certain attic fan models offer various speed settings, so it’s essential to ascertain the CFM rating for both high and low fan speeds. In certain instances, you may need to select either a high or low speed during installation. Conversely, some attic fans grant you the flexibility to regulate the fan speed according to your preference.
3. Effective Coverage
Selecting an appropriate attic fan requires considering its cooling capacity about your attic’s size. If you’re uncertain about the square footage of your attic, it’s advisable to measure it before embarking on your attic fan search. Opting for an attic fan with insufficient power can result in inadequate removal of hot air from the area.
The coverage area of an attic fan is primarily determined by its CFM rating, typically falling within the range of 800 to 1,600 CFM. If your attic measures up to 2,200 square feet, a single attic fan should effectively cool the space.
4. Construction Material
When selecting an attic fan, durability is crucial to ensure it can withstand temperature changes and moisture exposure. Given its remote placement within your home, regular inspections or maintenance might be challenging. Thus, it’s advisable to opt for an attic fan constructed from robust, enduring materials.
While certain attic fans feature plastic housings, which are resistant to rust and corrosion, they may become brittle over time due to extreme heat or cold exposure. Nevertheless, the majority of attic fans are crafted from galvanized steel due to their superior ability to endure the fluctuations between high and low temperatures. So, always try to go for the best quality solar attic fans. As long as the protective surface of the metal remains intact, these materials also exhibit durability in the face of rain, sleet, ice, and snow.
Must Read: 15+ Best and Most Popular Carport Materials
5. Installation Requirements
For proper installation, you’ll need to create a suitable opening in either the roof or an exterior wall of your attic to accommodate the housing of the attic fan. Additionally, the fan requires a power source to function. Some attic fans are designed to be plug-and-play, requiring a simple connection to a standard 110V outlet. On the other hand, hardwired attic fans necessitate integration into your home’s electrical system and might call for the expertise of a professional electrician.
Given that an attic fan will be positioned in one of the most remote areas of your home and may remain untouched for extended periods, it’s crucial to ensure its construction involves resilient, enduring materials capable of withstanding extreme heat, bitter cold, and airborne moisture.
There are several benefits of solar attic fans like reduced energy bills, extended roof lifespan, and a smaller carbon footprint. Choosing the best solar attic fan is a smart move towards a greener and more energy-saving home. For more detailed reviews, revisit our website.
