Solar powered ventilation fans do much more than just keep attics dry. They can also do the same for the bottoms of homes with “crawl spaces.”
Homes built on uneven ground or permafrost typically have crawl spaces. In these environments, constructing a full basement foundation may be very expensive. To save on construction costs, builders typically construct these homes on support columns made of cinder blocks or concrete.
Instead of a full basement, this method creates a small “crawl space” beneath the home. Typically, this space houses plumbing, electrical wiring, or extra storage. Builders used this method to construct approximately 15percent of new homes in the southern, southwest, and western United States in 2020.
The lower upfront costs of building on a crawl space foundation comes with a number of challenges. They are often damp, laden with moisture, and become a breeding ground for mould, mildew and pests. If not regularly addressed, a crawl space foundation will typically have a much shorter lifespan than other types of foundations. Because of its location and dirt floors, crawl spaces can possibly trap radon gas – a significant cause of lung cancer.
How can solar fans help?
Homes with crawl space foundations can benefit from specially designed solar attic fans like the 20W-FLEX-CRL. With its whisper quiet brushless motor, the 20W-FLEX-CRL can ventilate up to 400 cubic feet of air per minute in a crawl space foundation. They effectively push out the moisture that could damage the home’s structural supports and vent out radon gas as well. Two 20W-FLEX-CRL fans generally top the recommended models for optimal airflow
The 20W-FLEX-CRL model also comes with an anti-gust hood and an animal intrusion guard to protect the sidewall of a home. Its 39” cable allows for the fan’s solar attic panel to be strategically placed where sunlight is optimal. Powered only by the sun, solar ventilation fans require no electricity and, therefore, add nothing to a home’s electricity bill.
Is installation complicated?
Most general contractors and roofing professionals can install the 20W-FLEX-CRL/GAB in as little as 15 minutes. There is no need to hire an electrician. For more information on the best ventilation solutions for your home, cottage or shed with a crawl space, please contact one of our knowledgeable professionals.
