What Temp Should Attic Fan Be Set To

So, there I was, up in the attic, sweating like a pig in a sauna. I mean, it was hotter than a pepper sprout in a ghost pepper patch up there. I'd been meaning to install an attic fan for ages, but you know how it is, life gets in the way. Anyway, I finally got around to it, and now I'm wondering, what temp should I set that bad boy to?

Attic Fans: The Unsung Heroes

Attic fans, they're like the unsung heroes of your home. They're up there, slaving away, keeping your home cool and comfortable. But, like any good hero, they need a little guidance. That's where setting the right temperature comes in.

Now, before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let me just say, I'm no expert. I'm just a guy who's been there, done that, and got the sweaty t-shirt to prove it. So, let's figure this out together, yeah?

Why Bother Setting a Temp?

You might be thinking, "Why do I even need to set a temp? Can't I just leave it on and call it a day?" Well, sure, you could. But then you'd be using more energy than you need to, and that's just not cool. Plus, setting a temp helps maintain a consistent temperature in your attic, which is good for your home and your energy bill.

Side note: If you're using an attic fan without a thermostat, it's like driving a car without a speedometer. You can do it, but it's not very efficient, and you might end up going too fast (or slow).

So, What's the Magic Number?

Alright, let's get down to business. The general rule of thumb is to set your attic fan to come on when the attic temperature reaches 90°F (32°C). This helps to keep your attic about 20°F (11°C) cooler than the outside temperature. But remember, this is just a guideline. Your home might be different, so you might need to adjust.

Cooling and Heating Controller | Temp Management

Pro tip: If you've got a programmable thermostat, you can set it to come on at different times of the day, depending on the outside temperature. Pretty nifty, huh?

But What About Winter?

Great question! In the winter, you want to keep the heat in, not blow it out. So, you'll want to turn your attic fan off. Or, if you've got a fan with a built-in thermostat, you can set it to come on only when the attic temperature is above freezing. That way, it won't help the heat escape.

Side note: If you're using your attic for storage, you might want to consider an attic fan with a built-in humidistat. It can help control moisture, which is great for your stuff (and your home).

Best Temperature To Keep House In Winter | Gas Furnace

Don't Forget to Insulate

While we're talking about attic fans, let's not forget about insulation. A fan can help keep your attic cool, but if it's not insulated, all that cool air is just going to escape. So, make sure your attic is well-insulated before you install that fan.

Pro tip: If you're not sure about your insulation, you can always hire a professional to take a look. It's worth it in the long run.

Happy Fan-ing!

And there you have it, folks. Setting the right temp for your attic fan is like Goldilocks finding the porridge that's just right. Not too hot, not too cold, but juuuust right. So, go forth, set your temps, and enjoy your cool, comfortable home. And remember, if you've got any questions, I'm always here to chat. Just don't ask me to climb into your attic.