9 best attic air vents

Attic air vents are essential components of a building's ventilation system, and they play a crucial role in maintaining proper airflow and temperature control within an attic space. These vents are related to HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems and are commonly found in the building supplies section of hardware stores. Here's what you need to know about attic air vents:

  1. Purpose: Attic air vents are installed in the roof or walls of an attic to facilitate the exchange of air between the attic space and the outside environment.Their primary purpose is to regulate temperature and moisture levels within the attic.

  2. Types of Attic Air Vents:

    • Ridge Vents: These vents are installed along the ridge (peak) of the roof and provide a continuous opening for hot air to escape from the attic. Ridge vents are often paired with soffit vents for optimal airflow.
    • Soffit Vents: Soffit vents are located under the eaves of the roof and allow cool, fresh air to enter the attic. The combination of soffit and ridge vents creates a natural convection cycle.
    • Gable Vents: Gable vents are installed on the gable ends (triangular walls) of a house and allow hot air to exit the attic space. They are typically used in conjunction with other vents for balanced airflow.
    • Roof Louvers or Box Vents: Roof louvers or box vents are square or rectangular vents installed on the roof surface. They provide an exit point for hot air and moisture.

  3. Benefits:

    • Temperature Regulation: Proper attic ventilation helps regulate temperatures in the attic, preventing it from becoming excessively hot in summer and too cold in winter. This can contribute to energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of roofing materials.
    • Moisture Control: Attic vents help reduce moisture buildup by allowing humid air to escape, preventing condensation and potential issues like mold and rot.
    • Energy Efficiency: A well-ventilated attic can reduce the load on your HVAC system, potentially lowering energy bills.

  4. Installation: Attic air vents are typically installed by professionals or experienced DIYers. Proper placement and sizing of vents are essential to ensure effective attic ventilation.

  5. Materials: Attic vents are commonly made from materials like metal (e.g., aluminum) or plastic. The choice of material may depend on factors such as durability, cost, and climate conditions.

  6. Maintenance: Attic vents require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure they are not obstructed by debris, insulation, or pests. Clogged vents can impede airflow and reduce their effectiveness.

  7. Building Codes: Local building codes often dictate the type and quantity of attic vents required based on factors like attic size and climate conditions. It's essential to comply with these regulations during installation.

In summary, attic air vents are vital for maintaining a healthy attic environment and preserving the overall integrity of a building. Proper attic ventilation can contribute to energy efficiency, prevent moisture-related issues, and extend the lifespan of roofing materials. When considering attic ventilation, it's advisable to consult with a professional to ensure the vents are correctly installed to meet the specific needs of your home.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best attic air vents on the market
  

Air Vent Inc. 24" Whole House Fan 54301 Attic & Whole House Fans

Air Vent

Based on 169 reviews Check latest price

Product description

24" direct drive whole house Fan with automatic shutter, pulls air from a house size of 1500 sqft, 4500 cfm, 110V,runs on high & low, 2 speed pull chain included, needs 864 sequin of open exhaust vents in attic space, Rough opening is 27-3/4" x 29", automatic shutter is white, do not have to cut joist when installing Fan for easier installation, 10 year limited parts warranty, 5 year limited labor warranty. This product adds a great value. Product is highly durable and very easy to use. This product is manufactured in china.

  • This product adds a great value
  • Product is highly durable and very easy to use
  • This product is manufactured in China

User questions & answers

Question: Does this have a pull chain or do you need to hard wire it to a switch
Answer: Mine has a pull chain for hi/low/off. However, I leave mine on high and put an inline remote on it so I can turn it on an off from the living room. You will need to wire it with some type cord to a standard 110V power supply. I had a power outlet already in the attic for an attic fan so I simply wired my fan via an extension cord to the power outlet. Easy.
Question: How many watts does it use
Answer: 2.8 amps on high. 120 volts X 2.8 amps = ~335 Watts1.5 amps on low. 120 volts X 1.5 amps = ~180 Watts
Question: What is the decibel sound rating of this fan
Answer: I don't have a hard number on the sound rating of this fan, but I am happy with its performance in my garage. Standing right under it you would be able to hold a conversation with somebody close to you by raising your voice just a bit. At the lower speed setting the sound drops probably about 6 to 10 dB and the conversation would be fairly comfortable.
Question: I live in a 1200 SQ FT Town house (Condominium) in Southern California. I do not have any roof vents. I do have soffit vent screens, I am okay to use
Answer: I installed this on my 1100 Sq Ft townhouse in LA. I also do not have any roof vents, but.. there are soffit vents all around the building (4 units) and it works OK for me. I have not had any complaints from my neighbors (they share the attic with me and this fan pressurizes the attic) . The only thing I worry about is the pressure comes out all around the light switchs in all 4 units. To be safe, I run it almost 95% of the time on low so it's not noticeable. If you feel the air from your own outlets and switches you know what your neighbors will feel it. They can't hear it, but I recommend you be carefull they don't complain to the management. To be fair, I am friends with the other neighbors so They know about it and would tell me, but since I installed this and used it since 2002, I think it's earned it's keep. The low pressure is good enough for me. It cools down any room I need it to right away and if I only use it when it's hot, it cools everyone else's attic as well as mine. All in all, just keep the above in mind and use it on low only till people get used to it. I think they may just think it's the wind.... ;-)

Air Vent Mount Power INC. 53319 Gable Attic Ventilator

Air Vent

Based on 77 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gable Mount Power Attic Ventilator, 1320 CFM, Ventilates Up To 1900 SQFT, With Adjustable Thermostat From 60 To 120 Degrees.

  • Item Weight: 8.77 lb
  • Country of Origin: United States
  • Brand name: Air Vent
  • Item Dimensions: 7.25"L x 17.75"W x 18.0"H

User questions & answers

Question: is the wind direction reversible
Answer: This model is not recommended for flat roof applications.
Question: Directions say mount so that the "specially marked motor bracket is vertical? I see no marks anywhere
Answer: I think in very well might be better to install 2 of them. I have a single level 2400--but has a bonus room above garage--and a very tall attic space. I got 1 and it is only cooling my attic 10 degrees or so in the heat of the afternoon. I may look to buy a 2nd one later on down the road.
Question: Does it come with a thermo control
Answer: Yes, but I would call a licensed roofing contractor. It's worth it.I had one install it on my house and don't regret it a bit. The fan does a great job of helping my house stay cooler.
Question: Would this fan be OK to mount horizontally to be used as a whole house style for my garage
Answer: On 16" on center construction, the installer can either cut a 14" hole between the rafters or cut a 19" hole with the roof rafter running through the hole... Never cut through any framing members. On 24" on center construction, center the fan between the rafters and cut a 19"hole.

AIR VENT 53849 All Season WD Power Attic Vent

Air Vent

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Asrhpww roof mounted power attic ventilator, weather wood, 25 inch diameter metal dome, 1500 cfm, ventilates up to 2100 soft, with adjustable thermostat from 60 to 120 degrees & adjustable Humidistat from 20% to 90%, thermostat runs Fan in summer, Humidistat runs Fan in winter, 4.3 amp motor, 6 bladed Fan blade, 14-1/2 inch diameter opening, needs 720 skin of net free intake area, 10 year limited parts warranty, 5 year limited labor warranty.

  • Item Weight: 20.44 lb
  • Country of Origin: China
  • Brand name: Air Vent
  • Item Dimensions: 9.0"L x 25.5"W x 26.25"H

User questions & answers

Question: what does "soft" mean in the specs? Do you mean sq ft
Answer: Thank you for your interest in Puritan's Pride products! The Vitamin E 450 mg (1000 IU) (Prod No. 1781, B51002) is an S22 softgel, which is approximately 1" in length and 1/4 thick.

Air Vent Gable Ventilator 53315 Attic and Whole House Fans, Multicolor,Medium

Air Vent

Based on 511 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This product ventilates up to 1500 sq. ft. and has a 2-year limited labor . It is convenient to use and works effectively. It is durable and long lasting as well. It is definitely a great quality product.

  • Air Vent #53315 Gable Attic Ventilator
  • 1050 CFM 1/12 HP, 180W 3. 2 amps
  • 14" fan blade
  • For 1500 sq. ft. max

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come in 220 volts 60hz
Answer: I looked through the Amazon offerings, but I saw no mention of voltage. I'm guessing that another company does make maybe a bigger fan, and I guess that it could run with 220volts. I guess that one might have to do some searching to find that question's answer, but I'm just happy with the 120 volt fan, and it has worked now for a number of years. Should this one fail, I'll buy another one. Good luck in pursuing the answer to your question. keep cool!
Question: Can a variable speed control be attached instead of a thermostat. What type of electric motor is it? Is it capacitive start
Answer: I'm not sure of the of the type of motor it is. My motor is still running well, and it runs well with the thermo. I broke the AC to the motor, so that I can shut the fan down for the winter or another type of situation. I would guess that it might be a capacitive start, and over time with a speed control????
Question: what is it made of? any metal
Answer: The black rings are plastic. The fan blades and motor are metal.
Question: Does the unit come with a plug type cord or does it have to be hard wired
Answer: I hard wired a 14 GA. 3 wire 10'-12' extension cord that I removed the female end from. Works traffic. Shorter the better.

AIR VENT 53320 Gable-Mounted Power Attic Ventilator

Air Vent

Based on 37 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This product ventilates up to 2300 sq. ft. and has a 5-year limited labor warranty. It is convenient to use and works effectively. It is durable and long lasting as well. It is definitely a great quality product.

  • Item Weight: 11.0 lb
  • Country of Origin: United States
  • Brand name: Air Vent
  • Item Dimensions: 7.5"L x 18.25"W x 18.25"H

User questions & answers

Question: Can I adjust the temp on the thermostat
Answer: 120 vac via 12 gauge wire. I did put it a on switch for the power in a the closet with the attic access door.
Question: What Warranty comes with it
Answer: Hello....yes it came with mounting screws and washers. It is very quiet and I couldn't be happier with this purchase. You will love it!
Question: Does it come with both thermastat and humidistat
Answer: The motor is rated at 3.7 amps.
Question: Can the fan be reversed so it sucks air into the house instead of blowing it out
Answer: the inside diameter of the fan housing is right around 14 1/4" and the outside diameter is right around 17 1/4" hope that helps
Question: How is it wired
Answer: 5.2"
Question: does it come with mounting screws and washers
Answer: 120
Question: What is the current draw of the motor (in Amos please
Answer: Fins are stay OPEN when it's moving both ways, either air in or out. switcher change the way blades moving each clicks.
Question: what is the diameter of the fan
Answer: I use this exhaust fan for 300 Sq. Ft. room and it works great. As far how many Cubic Ft. it's designed for, I would recommend you direct the question directly to the manufacturer. But, if this helps at all, I tried a conversion calculator and found it to be about just over 11 Cubic Feet. Hope this helps. Otherwise, contact the manufacturer for more accurate answer(s).

AIR VENT 84212 16" x 8" UNDREVE Vent, Brown

Air Vent

Based on 240 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ev16872br 16" x 8" aluminum undereave vent, brown, 56 skin of net free area per piece, to be used in the soffit to provide intake air for the attic space to feed exhaust vents, Rough opening is 16" x 8".

  • Item Weight: 0.25 lb
  • Country of Origin: China
  • Color: Brown
  • Brand name: Air Vent

User questions & answers

Question: Can the screen be removed so i can paint it white
Answer: They sell white oens as well. . .
Question: Do these have a screen behind the louvers or can bugs still get in past them
Answer: There is a screen on the back side. About 1/8" square holes. Would keep out bugs.
Question: For the 16x8 cover what size cut out should I make
Answer: If you are adding a new vent just trace the outline of the vent then make your cuts about half an inch inside the tracing all four sides. I was replacing a plastic vent the squirrels had chewed holes in and the new metal vent fit same screw holes just fine.
Question: Why is the phot shown nnot 16" x 8 " and what is the actual color? brown
Answer: Yes. Mine came brown. It was 16 x8.
Question: How is it wired
Answer: 120 vac via 12 gauge wire. I did put it a on switch for the power in a the closet with the attic access door.
Question: does it come with mounting screws and washers
Answer: Hello....yes it came with mounting screws and washers. It is very quiet and I couldn't be happier with this purchase. You will love it!
Question: What is the current draw of the motor (in Amos please
Answer: The motor is rated at 3.7 amps.
Question: what is the diameter of the fan
Answer: the inside diameter of the fan housing is right around 14 1/4" and the outside diameter is right around 17 1/4" hope that helps

Solar Roof Vent - Solar Attic Fan - Solar RoofBlaster with Galvanized Vent

Based on 57 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Trapped heat and moisture in one's attic not only diminishes the comfort of one's home environment, but they also reduce the life expectancy of your entire roof. This product is an ideal ventilation choice for your home, garage, storage shed, garden shed, utility shed, greenhouse and even your dog house. CONTENTS INCLUDE: The Solar RoofBlaster Fan (patent-pending) comes pre-installed on a galvanized 8" metal can roof vent with flashing (16.5"x16.5"). A 3W solar panel will be attached to the top of the vent hood by four unique, stainless steel clips and is wired to a two-ball bearing, 2700rpm, 39cfm fan that is rated for 50,000 hours. Unlike the plastic vents of many other products on the market, this metal vent is designed to last on a lifetime roof. Plastic will fade and become brittle over time especially on top of a hot roof. INSTALLATION: Install the vent as you would any roof vent - remembering to always vent to code. This product does not allow you to install less vents. Its benefit is to boost the effectiveness of your passive roof ventilation system with the power of the sun! HOW MANY FANS SHOULD I ORDER FOR MY ROOF? We recommend 1 for every 600 sf of roof area. A typical home (1200sf) would take 3-5 vents. It is crucial that a home's attic is ventilated uniformly across the entire attic space. That is why most homes have numerous passive vents or ridge venting installed. BENEFITS: The idea is that cool air will come in from the eave's soffit vents and run along the entire roof deck to escape at the top through the passive vents. This uniform air movement helps keep your roof's deck (the plywood, the trusses, and the rafters) dry & moisture free. It also helps keep your insulation's r-value from decreasing due to condensation dripping down from the roof deck. DOES THIS FAN INCLUDE A THERMOSTAT OR ON/OFF SWITCH? No, not needed. Ideally, the fan should run in summer, to remove excessive heat, and winter, to remove moisture due to condensation.

  • Solar-powered roof and attic vent fan -- galvanized vent
  • Secure solar panel.
  • Installation instructions included with purchase.

User questions & answers

Question: Can I retrofit this unit on the existing whirlybird stack without cutting shingles, etc
Answer: https://www.amazon.com/Solar-Metal-RIDGEblaster-Attic-Ridge/dp/B075DTPWL2/ref=sr_1_8?m=A211OI7LAO2DVG&qid=1566153763&s=merchant-items&sr=1-8 Take a look at our Metal Ridge Blaster. I think your could use this to retro into a whirlybird. I can also assist you with hardware if need be. I would love to help you with this! Dan
Question: Where is this made
Answer: Every one of our products is hand built with pride in Fountain Hills Arizona. Thank you!
Question: Does this unit require ANY other parts and/or machinery to be fully operational upon installation
Answer: This unit is fully complete and functional when you receive it. We always answer our phone for any technical support you might need. 480-747-7097
Question: Have you used one on a metal shipping container
Answer: We have many customers that use them on shipping containers. Some that have used them for several years. I have a dealer in Pahrump Nevada that sets two containers side by side. One with, one without. The comparison is phenomenal and they buy the one with the vent every single time. We are always able by phone or e-mail to discus installation procedures. We want the best results possible for you. I also have people that mount them in the side of the container where they work equally well. Thank you.

Maxx Air Professional Grade Gable Mount Power Attic Ventilator with 2.6-Amp 60-Hz Motor and 14-Inch Blade

Based on 36 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Cool Attic standard-duty Attic Exhaust Ventilator offers effective power attic ventilation to reduce heat buildup, equalize temperatures inside and outside the attic, help prevent weather-induced home deterioration, and make living areas more comfortable - all while helping reduce the operating cost of air conditioning. Easy to install with no holes in roof. Suitable for 1850 sq. ft. attic. Includes 10 Amp adjustable thermostat Requires minimum 600 sq. in. net free air intake vent area. Easy installation behind static gable louvers sold separately. Excellent attic fan / attic gable fan / gable attic fan for all of your needs.

  • VENTILATOR FAN: This is a 1300 CFM Power Attic Gable Mount Ventilator with a 2.6 Amp thermally protected motor, a galvanized steel flange, and an automatic thermostat.
  • GABLE MOUNT ATTIC FAN: It mounts easily in the gable of your home, behind existing louvers or any other gable louvers of your choice. It will provide ventilation without modifying your roofline, or where roof-mounting is impractical.
  • ATTIC FAN: The Cool Attic Gable-Mount Attic Ventilator Fan offers effective power attic ventilation to reduce heat buildup, equalize temperatures inside and outside the attic. It has 14-inch fan with 600-square-inch intake. It is galvanized steel construction.
  • EASY INSTALLATION: It cools attic up to 1,850 square feet with a 2.6-amp, 115-volt, 60-Hz thermally protected motor, 1,300 CFM rating at 0.03 static pressure when used with model No. CX2121 automatic shutter. It helps keep your home cooler and reduce utility costs.
  • HOME ROOF COOLING FAN: This fan helps prevent weather-induced home deterioration and make living areas more comfortable - all while helping reduce the operating cost of air conditioning. Easy to install with no holes in roof required.

User questions & answers

Question: Can you also put an on/off switch plus the thermostat control? For venting exhaust fumes
Answer: I have mine outside but it is covered
Question: What size vent do you need to get for this fan
Answer: Yes
Question: IS there a variable speed control that will work with this fan
Answer: You can try MC4 connectors if you like.
Question: What is the cfm rating for this fan
Answer: You can use MC 4 connectors or the bullet connectors.

Product features

Maxx Air - The Brand You Can Trust Since 1948

A pioneer in the ventilation industry since 1948, Maxx Air manufactures high quality air delivery and air movement products for the residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural markets. Based in Mineral Wells, Texas with a reputation for quality, our products stand the test of time.

From Home to Factory, We Do it Better.

Air Vent 81202 12"x 12" Aluminum, White 12x12 WHT ALU Louver

Air Vent

Based on 90 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AIR VENT 81202 12"x 12" Aluminum Louver, White

  • Item Weight: 1.0 lb
  • Country of Origin: China
  • Color: White
  • Brand name: Air Vent

User questions & answers

Question: What is the outside dimenstion including the flange? What is the width of the flange
Answer: Make the hole 12" square and the flange is 14.5" square.
Question: Do they keep out bugs, flies, wasps
Answer: I believe they will, the slits are small (no screen on inside) and should keep out most bugs.
Question: Are these fixed in one position or hinged to where they actually fall shut with gravity
Answer: The vents are fixed and cannot be adjusted.
Question: What are overall dimensions and what is the rough opening needed for recessed application
Answer: rough 12 in square, over-all 14.5 in square
Question: Will this motor work with air vent dow-136-0-34-xin? original motor was 3.4 amp
Answer: This motor is junk!
Question: With this replace a air vent fan motor customer part no
Answer: Look for the model # on the motor
Question: Model R-26 3.4A -E61959? There is a replacement motor
Answer: Yes, we had to replace ours. We looked it up on the Mfg website and ordered online. My husband replaced it so it couldn't have been that hard. We noticed the replacement is quieter.
Question: I have an air vent inc attic vent mdl.# sv 3000 and it has a motor mdl.# d-re-psc-127/20-4p1sp. is this the correct motor to use
Answer: We looked it up on mfg website so I don't know.

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