The handy home or business owner can install the attic vent fan kit in four basic steps. First buy the components and get the tools assembled that you’ll need.

The attic vent fan system's components include:
• 1-12" gable fan 12 VDC;
• 1-32 watt solar module;
• 1-solar mount kit;
• 1-on/off switch
• Wire, screws, and connectors for the entire job. These components can be found at The Home Depot located at 1625 S. Mountain Avenue, Monrovia, Ca 91016
 

Installation of the Attic Vent Fan Kit

1. First find the best location for the solar module. The location should be in an area that receives full sun from at least 9 am to 3 pm. This time period is known  as the "sun hours" of the location. In the northern hemisphere, the best locations are on the south or west facing portions of the roof. Avoid areas that are shaded by trees, or trim the trees so that they aren’t shading the panel.

 2. Install the solar mount kit on the pre-drilled holes found in the solar module frame. Connect the cable to the solar module, both the positive and negative terminals, using the connectors provided. Mount the solar module on the roof with enough cable to go into the gable vent. 

3. Connect the on/off switch to another cable and run it to the gable vent. Connect the red wire from the solar module to the red wire on the on/off switch.

4. Mount the gable fan inside the gable vent. Connect the black wire from the solar module to black wire on the fan. Connect the white wire from the on/off switch to the white wire on the fan.

The fan will run only during the day, automatically shutting off at night. This fan will decrease the temperature indoors by reducing the amount of hot air in the attic, allowing you to turn on the air conditioning later in the day. This will result in your using less electricity which will, in turn, reduce both your electric bill and your carbon footprint.

For more information: How to green your business with 13 energy efficiency tips

Photograph by Wade Webb