Maintenance Guides / HVAC & Air Quality

Service whole-house fan

Difficulty: moderateTime: 30 mins

Why it matters

An uninsulated attic louver allows cold air to leak into the house in winter, negating heating efficiency. Debris jams the shutter and forces the motor to work harder.

Stop forgetting to do this.

Hearth generates a personalized maintenance schedule so you never miss another service whole-house fan.

Get the App

How to do it

  • 1

    Turn off the whole-house fan at the circuit breaker to ensure safety.

  • 2

    Climb to the roof safely and inspect the intake louver for debris.

  • 3

    Remove leaves, pine needles, animal nests, or other blockages by hand.

  • 4

    Use a soft brush or compressed air to dislodge stubborn dust buildup.

  • 5

    Check that motorized shutter louvers open and close smoothly.

  • 6

    Turn the circuit breaker back on and listen for the motor to hum without grinding.

  • 7

    Turn on the fan briefly to confirm the shutter operates and closes fully.