Required airflow, fan count and energy cost

Whole House Fan Size Calculator

Estimate whole-house fan airflow from building volume and target air changes, then compare installed fan capacity and operating cost.

Imperial and metric Rounded purchase quantities Cost estimate

Default project preview

4,800 CFM

Required per fan

4,800 CFM

Installed capacity

5,000 CFM

Capacity margin

+200 CFM

One air change

2.88 min

Calculator

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Enter the project details and calculate a rounded material estimate.

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Methodology

Transparent calculation

BuildMeter converts every input to a consistent internal unit, applies the selected allowance, and rounds products up to whole purchasable units.

Building volume = floor area × average ceiling height. Required airflow = volume × target ACH ÷ 60 for CFM, or volume × ACH for m³/h.

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FAQ

Whole House Fan Size Calculator questions

Why does a whole-house fan need attic exhaust area?+

Supply air entering the attic must have a safe path outdoors to prevent excessive pressure.

Can the fan run with closed windows?+

Operating instructions usually require suitable open inlets; follow the manufacturer and installer guidance.

Does this replace HVAC cooling?+

No. It exchanges indoor air with outdoor air and works only when outdoor conditions are suitable.