Whole house fan buying tips

The best whole-house fan units have better insulated elements, a quiter motor and more balanced and better blades. The difference between grades are usually in these details.

But there are some features you may also want to consider: multi-speed models, models with controls, etc.

Tip 1: Buy an well insulated and sealed fan

Prefer a model with a tight-sealed housing (including a well-sealed door for the fan opening). This features will also mean a quieter model.

If you intend to use air conditioning and a whole-house fan in conjunction (though not simultaneously) to respond to specifis weather conditions, a tightly sealed whole-house fan (and an easy-to-open and well-sealed door) is also crucial.

Tip 2: Choose a multi-speed model

Multi-speed whole house fans – usually two or three-speed fans – have significant advantages. The high speed allows the entire house to be ventilated quickly, while the low (and quieter) speed provides an agreeable air circulation, and lower operative costs…

Tip 3: About control options

Pull-chains or wall control switches are common and handy. Many models allow you to run or shut off the whole-fan, or set the fan speed with simple on/off wall or pull switches; some models involve also a timer to run or stop the fan at pre-selected times.

Tip 4: About modern vs. traditional Whole-house fans

Traditional models – either with fan blades attached directly to the motor (direct-driven whole-fan technology) or based on a pulley and belt system to operate the blades (the belt-driven whole-fan technology) - are tested, reliable and cheap… But they are noisier and demand higher installation costs and more sealing and insulation cares.

New models are much quiter, better sealed and easier to install (and demand less insulation work). But they are also more expensive and less tested…

Tip 5: About prices and manufacturers

See: Prices and Manufacturers of Whole House Fans.