HomeCustomer Service FAQs

Some troubleshooting tips and commonly asked questions regarding our solar attic fans

Solar Attic Fan Not Working?

Here are some troubleshooting tips you can try to get your fan working:

Check that the solar panel is receiving full, direct sunlight. The fan will not work if your panel is shaded or partially shaded.
Check for dust, dirt or bird droppings on the panel. If your panel is dirty, clean it with a soft towel and warm water.
Check wire connections. Check all wires to make sure there are no loose wire connections.
Does your fan have a thermal switch? If so, test it to make sure it is working properly. Unplug the thermal switch and plug the male and female connectors together from the wire dangling down from your fan. If the fan works, then you have a faulty thermal switch. Please note that your solar panel must be in full, direct sunlight while performing this test. IMPORTANT – please keep your hands away from the fan blade to avoid injury.
Still not working? If your fan still does not work or if it’s making a noise, please contact us to request a warranty replacement motor. Include a brief description of the problem. Please note that you will be required to pay a nominal $20 shipping charge in the lower 48 states and a $30 shipping charge in HI or AK.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of some of the most commonly asked questions regarding our solar attic fans. If you do not find the answer to your question below, please email your question to info@solaratticfan.com or use our contact form.

1. What type of roof can a solar attic fan be installed on?

Natural Light Solar Attic Fans can be installed virtually on any roof of either residential or commercial buildings. The roof mounted model is designed for either pitched or flat roofs. The solar panel can be angled to the position it will collect the most sunlight providing optimal venting performance on all roof slopes. Both a curb and gable mounted units are also available. Our models accommodate all roofing material including composite shingle, wood shake, tile and clay tile. For some tile roof installations, an additional flashing skirt is needed. Read more about the solar attic fan models available.

2. Are solar attic fans energy efficient?

Yes, Natural Light Solar Attic Fans are so energy efficient that models installed on residential homes qualify for a 30% Federal Tax Credit. The unit operates for free all during the day powered by the sun – so there are no operating costs. Additionally, in the summer months, attic venting can reduce the load on your AC system – which can save on your energy costs.

3. What is the venting capacity of a Natural Light Solar Attic Fan?

Natural Light has 4 solar panel sizes available to accommodate the attic ventilation needs of all structure sizes. Several factors can affect the amount of attic ventilation a home needs. Visit our output page which features a general guide for estimating the quantity and solar panel size needed for various roof pitches. Below is the average output for all 4 solar panel sizes. Your Natural Light dealer can assist you in determining what size unit or units are needed for your home.
32 watt = up to 2,200 square feet (up to 1,560 cfms)
35 watt = up to 2,550 square feet (up to 1,597 cfms)
48 watt = up to 2,825 square feet (up to 1,881 cfms)
65 watt = up to 3,350 square feet (up to 2,105 cfms)
Read more about solar attic fan venting capacity.

4. What warranty does the Natural Light Solar Attic Fan provide?

All our solar attic fan models have the industry’s best lifetime warranty. To qualify for all warranty benefits, please register your product Register your product online.

5. Can I install a solar attic fan myself? Is it difficult to install?

A homeowner can easily install our solar attic fans in about an hour or less. Installation requires basic do-it-yourself skills including using a reciprocating saw. The solar attic fan is fully operational right out of the box and no wiring or structural changes are needed. Each kit comes with illustrated step-by-step instructions. Read more about solar attic fan easy installation.

6. What comes with a Solar Attic Fan kit? What tools are needed?

Each Natural Light Solar Attic Fan kit comes with everything you need including a fully assembled attic fan and all hardware. Tools needed for installation: caulk and caulking gun, drill, hammer, ladder, marking pencil, measuring tape, reciprocating saw, safety goggles, screwdriver, stud finder and utility knife.

7. Can I install a solar attic fan on a shady roof?

Yes, Natural Light offers a unique version of our solar attic fan that allows you to install the fan assembly on a shady portion of the roof. The unit is powered by a remote solar panel that is installed away from the fan on the sunny portion of the roof. Visit the solar attic fan accessories page.

8. What maintenance is needed?

Natural Light Solar Attic Fans require no maintenance! The unit has been engineered to be leak proof when installed properly. It also has a protective animal screen that keeps out the critters.

9. Will solar attic fans withstand extreme weather?

Yes, the rugged construction of Natural Light Solar Attic Fan can withstand the harshest weather conditions including hurricanes and tornadoes. The unit utilizes a high impact solar panel and a heavy-duty commercial grade aluminum housing. A custom storm model is also available for hurricane zones adding additional protection against heavy rain blowing up and underneath the unit. Learn more about extreme weather.

10. Can I turn off the attic fan when attic venting is not needed?

Yes, a small device called a thermal snap switch is available that will automatically turn ON and OFF your fan when the attic temperature is optimal and attic venting is not needed. Visit the Accessory Page.

11. How do I receive a tax credit?

To qualify for a solar tax credit, the solar attic fan must have been placed in service on a residential home on June 1, 2009 through December 31, 2023. Natural Light provides a Statement of Certification for the homeowner to download, complete and keep with their tax records. The Statement does not need to be filled with your tax forms, but income tax regulations require taxpayers to have appropriate documentation. To claim a residential tax credit, download IRS form 5695 and instruction sheet. Natural Light recommends consulting a tax professional if considering filing for a tax credit. Read more about Tax Credits.

12. Can I install a solar attic fan on a shed or garage?

Yes, the Natural Light Solar Attic Fan can be installed on any structure with a roof including sheds, barns, lofts, garages, workshops, guest homes – any space that could benefit from air circulation. Natural Light also offers a specialized garage vent kit that is added to a standard solar attic fan unit converting the fan to a garage exhaust venting system. Read more about the garage vent kit.

13. My attic already has passive venting, why do I need an additional attic fan?

Building codes require all homes to incorporate a passive attic vent system. The problem with passive venting is that it rarely provides the pressure needed to force out the hot, moist air that builds up inside your attic. Adding a motorized attic fan provides the pressure needed to drive out the hot air and improve air circulation. Read more about how solar attic fans work.

14. What are the benefits of attic venting?

Attic ventilation helps maintain a healthy, energy efficient home. It extends the life of your roofing shingles and underlayment and reduces moisture build up that can cause rot and mold. Attic venting can also reduce the load on your AC in the summer, which can save you money. In colder climates, it prevents damaging ice damming). Read more about all the benefits of attic venting.

15. What materials are used to make solar attic fans?

Natural Light Solar Attic Fans are manufactured in the USA using only the highest quality components under the strictest control standards. All solar panels used on our units are high impact and engineered so that they work to full capacity even under the harshest conditions. The housing and flashing are made of heavy-duty, commercial pure grade aluminum that is powder-coated inside and out. It incorporates a quiet, powerful direct current motor with a lifetime warranty. Read more about tubular skylight components.

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NATURAL LIGHT SOLAR ATTIC FANS

Natural Light Solar Attic Fans reduce heat build-up in your attic and can minimize the load on your HVAC system. Available for all roof types, solar attic fans install easily with no electrical wiring or structural changes and blend seamlessly into your roof line.

CONTACT
(602) 485-4895 fax

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