 Attic WHOLE HOUSE FANS Whole house fans lost popularity during the cheap energy years. A well positioned whole house fan, used properly will cool most houses down to a comfortable level during most of the summer months. If in the heat of the summer the humidity rises the whole house fan will not keep the house as comfortable as air conditioning would. Whole house fans are a very cost effective way of cooling a home especially if used in the spring, early summer and fall, in the place of air conditioning. Instillation is simple, and the cost of the fan depends on model. Prices start somewhere under $200 and go up to about $325 for a deluxe model. Available in most large hardware stores or major home improvement stores. Before operating a whole house fan, a couple of windows must be opened two or three inches to allow air flow through the rooms that need cooling. Protect downstairs windows from vandals. In the fall, we recommend going into the attic and covering the fan with an insulation blanket. This will stop heat loss during the winter. A hot water tank insulation blanket is perfect for the job. Remember to remove the insulation before the next season's use! Check the tension on the drive belt (if applicable) and oil the motor if necessary or applicable annually. If the louvers need lubrication try using silicone lubricant or Endust furniture polish. NOTE: If a whole house fan is operated without opening the windows, the vacuum created will extinguish the pilot light on gas hot water heaters and furnaces. | Welcome to BIS | About BIS | Home Inspections | Get Started | Technical FAQ | Contact us |
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