Key Takeaways
- On average, whole-house fans cost between $900 and $2,400, including installation.
- Larger homes require whole-house fans with higher cubic feet per minute (CFM) ratings.
- These systems are best in low-humidity climates with nighttime temperatures below 67°F.
Whole-house fans cost between $900 and $2,400 on average — a fraction of the cost of most air conditioner replacements. The total installation cost depends on the type of fan, the home’s size, ventilation needs, and local labor costs. Smart features and required local permits can also increase the price.
Whole-house fans cool your home by drawing outside air in through open windows while pushing warmer air out through attic or roof vents. They’re energy-efficient alternatives to other types of HVAC units, but homeowners often pair them with air conditioners to deliver all-day cooling. However, they’re less ideal in high-humidity locations and work best when the nighttime temperature is below 67°F.
“Whole-house fans are perfect for people who like to run their AC with the windows cracked for fresh air,” said Mitch Rosa, owner of Hudson Valley HVAC in Orange County, New York. “If it’s 65°F to 70°F, it’s not an AC day. The fan gets air through the house, displaces hot air in the attic, and brings in a nice breeze. They cost a lot less than running AC on days when you don’t really need the AC,” Rosa added.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of whole-house fans, including costs, system types, benefits, and disadvantages, to help you determine if it’s the right addition to your home.
Cost data in this article is sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi and HomeAdvisor.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
What Is a Whole-House Fan?
Whole-house fans provide air circulation and cooling by pulling cool outdoor air into the home through open windows and pushing hot indoor air out through attic and roof vents. Homeowners shouldn’t use them at the same time as air conditioners, but they can reduce overall AC usage and related energy costs.
Whole-house fans work well in a number of climates, but research has found that they’re most effective in areas where nighttime temperatures average below 67°F and daytime high and nighttime low temperatures differ by 25°F or less. For example, Department of Energy (DOE) whole-house fan modeling studies have shown homes in Sacramento, California, can save 20% on cooling energy, while those in Burlington, Vermont, could save 34%.
Pros of Whole-House Fans
Whole-house fans are extremely energy-efficient and affordable to run, but they have a few other advantages:
- Fast cooling in the evening: Since whole-house fans work best below certain temperatures, they can quickly draw in colder air and cool the home at night.
- Extends AC life: The more you use your AC, the faster it breaks down. Whole-house fans reduce your reliance on the HVAC unit, thereby extending its lifespan.
- Improves indoor air circulation: These units constantly circulate air throughout your home, removing stale air while bringing in fresh outside air.
- Lower upfront cost: Whole-house fans are significantly more affordable than many other types of AC systems, which typically range from $5,000 to $14,000.
Cons of Whole-House Fans
While you can use a whole-house fan in every climate, they’re not always ideal in areas with high humidity. Unlike air conditioners, the fans don’t dehumidify the air — instead, they can bring outside moisture in, making it uncomfortable for occupants. As a result, they’re most effective in International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) climate zones 3B, 4B, and 5B, followed by 2B, 3C, 4C, and 6B.
However, even if you don’t live in one of the recommended zones, you might not want to rule out the system entirely. Some whole-house fans come with humidistats that help you monitor indoor humidity levels. If the home becomes too humid, the fan turns off. Consult with an HVAC professional to learn about your options.
Another disadvantage of whole-house fans is that they don’t have filters. They’ll bring outside pollutants, including pollen and smoke, into the home, which could affect those with allergies. They can be noisy, especially if you have a large-capacity fan, but most newer models are quieter. You can use rubber or felt gaskets, or set the speed to a lower setting to reduce noise.
Rosa also explained that you need to seal your whole-house fan in the winter. “There are well-insulated boxes so cold air doesn’t fall through the fans. You can also use magnetic sheets that you put over the face.”
Average Whole-House Fan Costs
Whole-house fans typically range from $900 to $2,400, with the average cost being around $1,700 for most homeowners. The size of your home, fan type, and other factors impact the total cost.
The table below highlights the average costs for various whole-house fan systems, including labor:
| Fan Type | Unit Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wall-mounted | $1,600 | Houses with limited attic or roof access |
| Direct-mounted | $1,700 | Larger homes and attics |
| Ducted | $2,000 | When noise is a concern |
| Roof-mounted | $2,000 | Homes with limited attic space and flat or low-pitched roofs |
What Affects the Cost of a Whole-House Fan?
Overall, more powerful whole-house fans are more expensive, and certain factors, such as ventilation requirements and local labor costs, can increase the price.
Home Size
Each whole-house fan has a cubic feet per minute (CFM) rating, which indicates the amount of air it moves. A larger home requires a whole-house fan with a higher CFM rating, which increases installation complexity and the total cost.
Generally, you want a CFM rating that is two to three times your home’s square footage, but HVAC professionals will also account for your climate, your home’s ceiling height, and other elements to recommend the best size for you.
For example, a homeowner with a 1,500-square-foot home needs a 6,000 CFM whole-house fan and can expect to pay $800–$1,800. A 3,000-square-foot home requires a 12,000 CFM rating, which averages between $1,100 and $2,400.
Ventilation Requirements
Your whole-house fan needs adequate exhaust vents to release hot air. You’ll have to pay for their installation if you don’t have enough. Gable vents are the least expensive, at $60–$150 on average with installation, but they’re best for less intricate gable roofs. Ridge vents range from $300 to $650, while soffit vents often cost between $315 and $465.
Labor
Job complexity increases the total cost of installing a whole-house fan. For example, it’s much easier and safer to install the system in a single-story home than in a two-story home with a tight attic. Expect to pay between $50 and $100 per hour for labor or about $300 to $1,000 for the entire installation.
Some installations also call for carpenters and electricians. You may need a carpenter if you’re relocating joints for a direct-mounted fan and an electrician for any wiring work or panel connections.
Additional Factors
Some other factors can impact your whole-house fan installation bill, including:
- Smart features: Advanced whole-house fans come equipped with smart tools, including timers, adjustable speeds, thermostats, and hygrometers.
- Permits: Some installation projects require local permits, which range from $10 to $500.
- Attic fan cover: In the winter, you need an air-tight cover to keep the cold out. They typically range from $30 to $85.
- Fan shutters: These typically cost $40–$200. They keep air out when the fan isn’t in operation.
How Much Does It Cost To Run a Whole-House Fan?
Whole-house fans are much more energy-efficient and less costly to run than central AC units. Whole-house fans use just 120 to 600 watts per hour, compared to central AC’s 3,000 to 5,000 watts per hour.
Even if you run the fan continuously for 24 hours, you would only spend $0.50–$2.51 per day or $15.08–$75.40 per month. For the same time period, a central AC would run you $12.56–$20.94 per day or $377.92–$628.20 per month.
You can calculate how much you stand to save by taking the unit’s kilowattage and multiplying it by the number of hours you expect it to run. Then, multiply it by the average hourly cost of electricity. As of April 2025, the average national price is 17 cents per kilowatt-hour.
You can use these formulas:
Watts x usage hours = watt-hours
Watthours/1,000 = kilowatt-hours
Kilowatt-hours x 0.1745 = cost
Next Steps
In the right climates, whole-house fans are an affordable and effective cooling alternative to constantly running air conditioners. When used properly, you stand to save thousands of dollars in the long run.
Rosa recommends going with a whole-house fan if you love fresh air. “We have one in our home with a humidistat and variable speeds. We open the windows, run it full blast, and it brings in lots of fresh air.” He also noted another benefit — if someone is frying fish, the fan quickly removes the smell from the house.
If you’d like to install a whole-house fan, first determine if your region’s climate is suitable by checking your location against the IECC climate zone map. Measure your home’s square footage to estimate the required CFM rating and cost. Then, request quotes from at least three licensed HVAC installers who can help you determine the best type of whole-house fan for your needs and home.
FAQs About Whole-House Fan Cost
Can I install a whole-house fan myself?
While you can technically DIY a whole-house fan installation, we highly recommend working with an HVAC company. The installation requires structural changes to your home and electrical work that is best left to trained professionals. You also need permits. Professionals understand the types of permits and licenses required to complete the installation and can obtain them for you.
Even with some handyperson experience, attempting to install the fan yourself can result in damage to your home or injury. Improper installation can lead to water damage on your roof or in your attic, air leaks, electrical issues, or excessive noise.
Do whole-house fans qualify for rebates?
Whole-house fans are eligible for rebates through certain utility companies. Each business has its own requirements, so double-check available rebates with your utility company before making your purchase. For example, according to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE), Hawaii Energy offers $100 rebates on whole-house fan installations.
On their own, whole-house fans don’t qualify for federal tax credits, but some types might be eligible if they are part of a larger HVAC system that does meet IRS criteria.
How long does a whole-house fan last?
Whole-house fans tend to last five to 15 years, depending on the brand and model. Companies often offer warranties with their units that cover the expected lifespan, though terms and coverage policies vary.
You may need to replace your fan if it has become significantly louder or you’re regularly repairing it. If your whole-house fan is relatively new, sudden noise can indicate installation issues rather than mechanical failure. Consult an HVAC professional to determine the next steps.
When is the best time to run a whole-house fan?
The best times to run the whole-house fan are in the evening, in the morning, and during the night. However, you should only turn it on if the outside temperature is lower than the interior temperature. Keep an eye on the humidity and pollen levels to avoid drawing humid air or allergens into your home.
Before turning your whole-house fan on, open your windows and make sure your air conditioner and heater are turned off. If your house becomes too cold at night, use a fan timer or variable speeds to better regulate the temperature while you sleep.
