Can a solar-powered roof extractor fan be used to extract air from the room under the roof?

[schroeds]

Hi, I live in the top apartment of a small block, and the bedroom is on a mezzanine floor that's under the roof (ie there are no rooms above it just the flat roof). In Summer gets hot and airless up there... much hotter than downstairs. There seems to be a build-up of heat under the ceiling and my idea is to extract that so cooler air from downstairs can get drawn up to the mezzanine.

My question is could a product like this be flued into the ceiling (it seems to be designed to just extract air from roof cavities)

https://www.bunnings.com.au/quietcool-40-watt-black-solar-roof-mount-attic-fan_p0527126

If not this product, is there some other alternative?

Many thanks

[EricL]

Hello @schroeds 

Thank you for sharing your question about installing a solar powered roof extractor fan. I believe this is an excellent choice in regards to air extraction. The unit has a 24/7 function which means that any ambient hot air will get moved out of the room to be replaced with the cool air from below. There will be no chance for hot air to accumulate in the room, as the fan will remain on continuously.

According to the description, with a QuietCool Solar Attic Fan, you also get the benefit of an included AC/DC inverter. This allows the fan to run 24/7. When there is sunlight outside, the fan will run only on solar power being powered by the large solar panel on the fan. When there is no sunlight, such as at night, the fan will switch to AC power and continue to run throughout the night. This allows you to take advantage of cooling your attic during the coolest part of the day. You can also ask your electrician to install a bypass switch if you wish to turn the unit off.

In regards to adding a flue to the unit, it will have to be a D.I.Y installation as it is designed to extract air from roof top cavities. I propose engaging the services of a roof ventilation specialist.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[schroeds]

Thanks @Eric that's super useful, cheers