How Does a Solar Attic Fan Work?

The sun in Arizona does not just make your patio warm, it can turn your attic into what feels like a stove! The heat comes down from the attic causing your A/C unit to have to overwork. That is why a quality solar attic fan is one of the best value and eco-friendly changes you can make. At Elite Home Daylighting, we believe it’s a game changer for comfort, savings, and home protection. Read on to learn more about how a solar attic fan works and why this is so important in a place like Arizona. 

What Is A Solar Attic Fan?

In basic terms a solar attic fan sits on a high point of your roof and is powered by its own individual solar panel. The solar panel provides power, starts the fan and the humid and hot air is withdrawn from the attic. Cooler air from the outside is ducted in through vents and creates a constant flow of air to help regulate and moderate the temperature. Solar attic fans does not need wiring into your households electrical system. They only work when there is enough sun to power them which in the Arizona climate means it will work when you need it!

How Does It Work?

• Solar Panel Captures Sunlight
  Elite Home Daylighting offers solar‐powered fans with 10, 20, or 30 watt solar panels. Elite Home Daylighting Systems In the sun, those panels generate electricity to run the fan motor.

• Fan Motor & Blades Move Hot Air Out
  Once powered, the motor spins the fan blades. Hot air in the attic is pulled out through a vent (in Elite’s designs, often with louvers or guards to keep out pests). As hot air is evacuated, it lowers attic temperature. Elite Home Daylighting Systems

• Cooler Air Is Drawn In
  To replace the displaced hot air, cooler outside air is drawn in through existing vents—soffits, gable vents, ridge vents (if present). That flow helps reduce heat buildup and can also reduce moisture, which helps prevent mold or deterioration of attic materials.

• Automatic Operation During Peak Heat
  Because the fan relies on solar power, it operates most during the hottest part of the day—exactly when attic temp is highest. In Arizona, that often means the fan is doing most of its work during midday and early afternoon sun. On partly cloudy or less intense days, performance drops accordingly—but even diffused or indirect sunlight can still power the fan to some degree.

Great Benefits For Arizona Homes

• Huge Cooling Savings
  With attic temps reduced, your home’s air conditioning doesn’t have to fight so much heat. Elite’s site claims potential reductions in yearly cooling cost—and many homeowners report noticing lower electric bills after installing a solar attic fan. Elite Home Daylighting Systems+1

• Longer Roof & Insulation Life
  Extreme heat and trapped moisture degrade roofing materials, shingle under‐layers, and attic insulation. By reducing attic extremes, solar attic fans help protect these components and extend their lifespan. Elite Home Daylighting Systems

• Moisture & Mold Control
  Even though Arizona is generally dry, nights and cooler seasons or monsoon rains can introduce humidity. Without proper ventilation, moisture builds up, leading to mold, mildew, or wood rot. Solar attic fans help remove that moist air, keeping attic structure healthier year‐round.

• Eco-friendly & Low Operating Cost
  Solar energy is free once installed. Elite notes their fans are “100% completely solar powered.” Elite Home Daylighting Systems There’s no electric bill cost for the fan itself. And because there are fewer moving parts and no reliance on grid power, maintenance tends to be minimal.

• Possible Tax Credits / Incentives
  According to Elite, both the cost of the solar panel portion and the labor associated with the installation can qualify for tax credits. Elite Home Daylighting Systems This makes the upfront investment even more appealing.

What To Know Before You Buy

• Fan Size & CFM Ratings
  Not all fans are the same. Elite offers different wattages (10W, 20W, 30W) matched to home size (e.g. for homes up to 1,800 sq ft or up to 2,500 sq ft). Elite Home Daylighting Systems+1 Also pay attention to CFM (cubic feet per minute)—the higher the CFM, the more air moved, and the more effective cooling.

• Number of Air Exchanges
  Most manufacturers (Elite included) recommend around 4 air exchanges per hour. Elite’s flat/recessed 20W solar attic panels can exchange air about 5½ times per hour in a 2,000 sq. ft. home. Elite Home Daylighting Systems

• Cost Expectations
  In 2025, the price of the fan unit (10-20W) for smaller homes is in the ballpark of $229 to $349. For higher capacity models (25-35W) suitable for larger attic spaces, the cost can go up (often $389 to $950 or more), depending on features and complexity. Elite Home Daylighting Systems Installation adds to that (labor, roofing sealing/flashings, etc.).

• Quality & Components
  Good solar attic fans use durable materials: metal louvers or guards, quality flashing to prevent leaks, motors designed for outdoor/attic heat, and fan blades that are efficient but quiet. Elite’s products, for example, use high quality solar panels, metal covers / louvers, and roof flashings powder coated to resist weather. Elite Home Daylighting Systems

Why Choose Elite Home Daylighting Solar Fans

Elite knows solar fans are more than mere products, designed for Arizona’s tough climate, the yare built to last! From the intense heat and occasional monsoon storms, the fact Elite focuses on the correct wattage, products made from quality materials, roof flashing and the correct capacity matching fan ensure the fan makes life more comfortable and lasts a long time. There is also a possibility of additional federal tax credits, and the possible elimination of ongoing electric costs for the fan unit. all part of the great service we offer. 

Conclusion

Although a simple device a solar attic fan delivers huge results. Capturing solar power to fan that vents heat and moisture. As a result you will enjoy lower cooling bills, more comfy living and a greener footprint for your roof installation.

Solar Attic Fan Installation In Phoenix

Elite Home Daylighting Systems offers tubular skylights and solar attic fan installation services to the entire Phoenix east valley. Service area includes Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe & more! Contact us for a free quote today! 

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