Attic Temperature Too Hot

Having a properly vented attic is the best way to keep attic cool because it allows the hot air to escape during the summer.

Attic temperature too hot.

Whether it s 110 f or 130 f there s not much difference in the amount of heat flowing from the attic to the living space below. At the very best conventionally ventilated attics can never be cooler than the outside air temperature. This is because the attic is essentially open to the outside air. Unless your roofing system has insulation on the roofing deck and is designed without ventilation your furnace should not be heating your attic.

Ideal attic temperatures shouldn t be more than 10 to 20 degrees hotter than outside temperatures. 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. An unventilated attic can reach 150 degrees in the heat of summer 50 degrees higher than it should be. If hot air is allowed to sit in your attic it could overheat the shingles on your roof and cause damage.

If your attic soars above 100 degrees and reaches the 150 mark its time to consult professionals. And it can cause your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to and send your energy bills soaring with the temperature. If it s 90 degrees outside the attic temperatures shouldn t. In addition hot air in your attic could increase moisture levels which could result in wood rot and mold growth.

Note excessive heat. Thanks to the radiant heat affect attic temperatures on a 100 degree day can reach 170 degrees or more. The thermostat will usually start at 95 degrees fahrenheit which is the temperature that the attic fan usually starts at. But by adding powered attic fans you will draw more air into the attic.

Using insulation only keeps the attic s heat from traveling through your home. That is certainly too hot but how hot is ok.