With energy prices rising at above average inflation just recently, there is increased interest in using energy that is cheaper and is sustainable. Solar power fits this criteria perfectly. After an initial upfront investment, the energy returned is free and it’s source, the sun, is the source of all other energy resources that we currently use. If the sun was to go out, worrying about energy bills would be the last thing on our minds. With this interest in solar power there are a number of different products being developed for the home and garden that use solar power. One such product is the solar powered gable ventilator. This article will discuss why you need a gable ventilator and how a solar powered version can save you money.

All homes are built with some form of ventilation. In the summer the system of vents helps to keep air circulating and make the house cooler. In the winter the vents allow air to circulate and rid the house of heat generated moisture, mold and other by-products that can damage the structure of the house or the health of the inhabitants. The attic and lofts of many buildings suffer the most in winter because heat rises. Much moisture that may form in the attic can settle into the structure of the house and set off bouts of dry rot.

Solar powered gable ventilators can help to solve the problem of dry rot and help to circulate the air throughout the house. The basic structure of solar powered gable ventilators is the fan, the solar panel and a DC motor. The solar panel charges the DC motor that powers the fan. Depending on the type of system, anything from 800 to 1200 cubic feet per minute of air can be moved.

Installation of the gable ventilator requires no electrical wiring and is easier to install than other types of ventilation. The system is a stand alone product – simply connect the panel to the motor, motor to fan and the system will run (provided there is some sunlight). The fan fits in the gable end and free up space in the attic for whatever you want to put there. The solar panel is fitted to the roof. This can be done by the owner or a professional roofer.

Once the system is running it will cost no money. The solar powered gable ventilator may be a bit more expensive to buy than standard ventilators but it should be cheaper to install if you do not have electricity in the attic. It will never add to the cost of your utility bills either. Most ventilators will last anywhere between 5 and 25 years depending on price.