Since hot air rises, the attic is usually the hottest part of a house in summer. This may not seem to be a serious matter, since the attic is usually a place where everything that you do not need, but cannot get rid of, is stored. People rarely spend time there, so the heat that collects there may not seem to be a problem. Unfortunately, that is wrong. The heat that builds up in the attic can, after a time, become so great that it radiates down through the structure and increases the temperature on the lower floors of the house. Higher moisture levels often accompany the heat buildup in the attic. This moisture could damage the roof of the house if it is not removed.

The Problems of Hot Attics

The high temperatures and moisture levels that are often found in attics can be costly and even dangerous.

• Heat and humidity can damage the items stored in the attic, which often include irreplaceable family heirlooms, etc.
• The heat that can radiate down to the rest of the house will add to the air conditioning load, making the air conditioner work harder which means it will consume more electricity so your power bills may be higher than they need to be.
• Accumulated moisture that remains in the attic after summer can cause ice damming on the roof when winter starts. The moisture can cause mold and mildew formation. These toxic spores could be blown into the rest of the home where people may inhale them and develop often serious medical conditions.

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Also Read: Mastering Attic Fan Installation: A Guide for Homeowners

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The Benefits of a Cool Dry Attic

An attic that is cool and dry does not just resolve the problems listed above. The attic can become a more usable space. Once it is cleaned and the items stored there are arranged neatly, you could find a lot of usable space that could give the house that extra room you have always wanted.  Additionally, you will have the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have not only acted to control electricity consumption and bring down utility bills but also to protect the roof from damage that could result in very expensive repair costs. There is a fit-it-and-forget-it way to achieve all this.

Dealing with heat and moisture buildup in the attic is simple. All you need to do is install an attic fan. The best option is to put in a solar attic fan so that it has no running cost. Additionally installing a solar-powered attic fan means you can avail of a 30% federal tax credit, which makes the already attractive price even more appealing. Solatube is the world leader in solar attic fan production and the efficiency and longevity it these fans are renowned. The company makes a range of attic fans to suit varying home sizes and family needs. In the San Francisco Bay Area, Sunlight Concepts is the Premier Dealer for Solatube attic fans and other products. Special features include a controller that automatically switches the fans on and off depending on ambient temperature and humidity in the attic or runs the fan for a defined number of hours each day.

Contact Sunlight Concepts for a free consultation to have all your questions answered, learn more about the tax credit, and know what you need to choose the attic fan that is right for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Why should I consider installing an attic fan this summer?

An attic fan helps reduce heat and moisture buildup in the attic, which can lower your cooling costs and protect your home from potential damage.

2. How does an attic fan affect my energy bills?

By reducing the heat in the attic, an attic fan lessens the strain on your air conditioner, leading to lower electricity consumption and reduced energy bills.

3. What are the risks of not having an attic fan?

Without an attic fan, heat and moisture can accumulate, potentially damaging stored items, increasing cooling costs, and leading to issues like mold, mildew, and ice damming.

4. Are solar-powered attic fans a good option?

Yes, solar-powered attic fans are cost-effective as they have no running costs and are eligible for a 30% federal tax credit, making them an eco-friendly and economical choice.

5. Where can I find reliable attic fans in the San Francisco Bay Area?

Sunlight Concepts, a Premier Dealer for Solatube, offers a range of solar attic fans that suit various home sizes and needs, along with free consultations and expert advice.

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