What is a Whole House Fan and Why Should I Consider One?

It’s a hot, summer day—and we know how hot it can get in Santa Rosa—and all you want to do is run your air conditioner day and night, feeling the reliving breath of cool air throughout your home. The only problem, cost. It’s way too easy to see a large spike in cooling bills during the warmest months of summer, but there’s a solution. If you haven’t heard of a whole house fan, it’s time to read on. We’re answering your question of “what is a whole house fan,” and why you should really consider investing in one.

What is a Whole House Fan?

Simply put, a whole house fan is a fan that’s installed in your attic and circulates fresh air through your home. Despite popular belief, it is not a replacement for a traditional HVAC system; instead, it works with a central air or HVAC system to provide your home with ultimate comfort and keep your cooling bills low. Additionally, the whole house fan cycles fresh, outdoor air with your treated indoor air so your home stays natural, crisp, and healthy. There are different fans for your specific needs. For many, the largest whole hose fan is not the best option. At Moore Home Services, we recommend the inline whole house fan. Why? They are better at cooling and blocking heat during the summer and preventing heat loss during the winter.

How Does a Whole House Fan Work?

A whole house fan works by pulling fresh air from the outside and circulating that air in your home. When used with an HVAC system, a whole house fan can save between 50% and 90% on your home cooling costs. If you’re wondering how this works, it’s actually quite interesting. Your home HVAC system runs in a closed loop. Meaning air is continuously circulated and recycled. A whole house fan opens that loop to bring in fresh air. Many homeowners run their AC all day, every day during the summer. While that’s not a bad thing, especially in Santa Rosa where temperatures can run sky high, it is a drain on your wallet. A whole house fan alleviates the use of your HVAC system during the evening and early morning. When the outdoor ambient temperature drops to a manageable temperature, turn off your central AC and turn on the fan. The whole house fan will incorporate the cooler air with the treated air in your home, allowing your HVAC system to rest when it’s not needed.

Why Do I Need Fresh Air if the Air in My Home is Treated?

Just like mammals, homes need to breathe. Central AC—and mini split AC systems—run on the “closed loop” cycle mentioned above. While that cycle is great for keeping the air in your home cool, there are major benefits to letting in fresh air. One of the biggest and best benefits is for basic health. According to the EPA, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Some of this pollution can be attributed to too much recycled air. Therefore, one of the best things you can do for your health and your home is to incorporate some fresh air into your normal HVAC routine. This fan will achieve this by cycling in new, fresh air while you’re asleep, and saving you money in the process.

Want to Learn More? Call us!

We are here to answer all your questions, including the simple, “what is a whole house fan.” Our Diamond Certified technicians are here, working, and ready to help. Moore Home Services proudly serves Santa Rosa and surrounding communities. If you need plumbing help, we’re here for that too. To schedule an appointment, click here to do so online, or reach out to one of our friendly call center representatives and they’ll be happy to assist you.