How to Get Maximum Efficiency From a Whole House Fan
Whole-house fans are a more efficient alternative to air-conditioning units. Typically installed in the top floor of a house, the large blades pull air from open windows throughout the house and distribute it inside. They use less electricity than air conditioners and are less expensive to install than central air conditioning, especially if your house does not have vents already. In cooler climates, using a whole-house fan can eliminate the need for an air conditioner altogether, and in hotter climates whole-house fans can greatly reduce air conditioner use. A few steps can help maximize the efficiency of whole-house fans. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Cover and insulate the fan during winter months. Standard fans come with a louver, or cover, that will close off the fan when not in use, but they are not insulated and will not prevent colder winter air from entering the house. The U.S. Department of Energy website (see Resources) offers plans for constructing a fan cover.
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Install a timer. This will allow you to open the windows and turn the fan on before bed, then set it to turn off when outside temperatures will cool the house without the need of a fan.
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Install a fan with two speeds. This will allow the home to cool quickly on high speed, then maintain a comfortable air flow at low speed.
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Tips & Warnings
Turn off heating and air conditioning when using a whole-house fan.
Windows must be open when using a whole-house fan. The force of the fan could put out pilot lights or draw air through other vents without the proper ventilation.
Do not leave a fire in a fireplace when a whole-house fan is running.
