Attic Temperature Too Hot

At the very best conventionally ventilated attics can never be cooler than the outside air temperature.

Attic temperature too hot.

Ideal attic temperatures shouldn t be more than 10 to 20 degrees hotter than outside temperatures. The thermostat will usually start at 95 degrees fahrenheit which is the temperature that the attic fan usually starts at. That is certainly too hot but how hot is ok. This is because the attic is essentially open to the outside air.

If hot air is allowed to sit in your attic it could overheat the shingles on your roof and cause damage. An unventilated attic can reach 150 degrees in the heat of summer 50 degrees higher than it should be. If it s 90 degrees outside the attic temperatures shouldn t. Using insulation only keeps the attic s heat from traveling through your home.

Just make sure the ceiling is airtight and fully insulated and the temperature in the attic doesn t matter much. Having a properly vented attic is the best way to keep attic cool because it allows the hot air to escape during the summer. Poor insulation is usually the culprit although if you enter the attic on sunny winter day your attic space can be warmed by the sun more than your furnace. Note excessive heat.

If your attic soars above 100 degrees and reaches the 150 mark its time to consult professionals. In addition hot air in your attic could increase moisture levels which could result in wood rot and mold growth. And it can cause your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to and send your energy bills soaring with the temperature. Thanks to the radiant heat affect attic temperatures on a 100 degree day can reach 170 degrees or more.

But by adding powered attic fans you will draw more air into the attic. An overheated attic can bake asphalt shingles on the roof and cause them to deteriorate.