1)  Install a direct-vent whole house fan such as the HV1000 from Tamarack Technologies.  To install these units, you will cut a hole in the ceiling of a central hallway/staircase (in this example about 14×22 inches).   After hole is cut and debris/insulation removed, you create a box from 2×6 or 2×8 timber (whatever matches your existing joists).  It will look something like this:

At which point you can drop in the fan unit — looking something like the picture below:

Next wire up the unit, and run a switch to a convenient location within your home to turn unit on/off.   You will also want to examine venting within the attic to ensure that it conforms with the device’s needs.

Here’s a link to a good DIY article on fan install.

Here’s a link to the install guide for this particular unit:  HV1000 install guide.

Bottom line:

These units will provide you with a cost efficient way of cooling your home with low energy consumption.  This unit uses the same amount of energy as two incandescent light bulbs!   Another benefit is to use it as an air exchanger, to help keep the air fresh and healthy in your home.   I hope you find this info helpful!

Brian

I wanted to share with you a cost effective upgrade for your house!  First thing you may think during this time of the year is that it never gets that hot in Seattle……….but for those people that have a decent exposure we have a few warm months here.   Add to that the fact that many of the properties are without air conditioning and are multiple stories, you will always get a few rooms that are pretty dang hot.   For those of you with a few grand just lying around, perhaps you have thought of an A/C.  For those of you that like to save that money for a trip to Hawaii during the February grey, you might want to examine the option of a whole house fan.

The classic way that an exhaust fan works is to draw hot air out of the attic space and out through the roof, letting cooler air coming in through the windows.  Of course this only works if the air outside the house is cooler than what is inside.   But if you think about it, most of the time the air is cooler outside.  Especially on those days the sun is beating down on your house and turning it into a pressure cooker.  Here’s an image that helps demonstrate:

In the coming days I will give you a couple different scenarios on how this can play out.  Ducted vs. Direct, Solar vs. Powered.   Bottom line is that it is something that can increase the value of your home, and since they are not entirely commonplace it makes your home stand out in the marketplace (should you be selling in the near future!).  A great cost-effective Green feature for your Seattle home.