A gable vent is an opening from the exterior to an attic. Gable vents allow air circulation in the attic space by the use of natural cross or power ventilation. Gable vents help control indoor temperature and reduce cooling costs.

Identification

Gable vents are located in the gable end of wall framing near the roof ridge board. Gable vents can be round, square or octagonal. In most cases, gable vents are a decorative louver with bug screening.

Function

Gable vents work like an open window on both sides of a room. Gable vents remove hot air from an attic, reducing the temperature of a house. Air conditioning systems work more efficiently in a house with attic vents, especially gable vents.

Natural Ventilation

Natural ventilation, with blowing wind, creates ventilation through a gable vent when air enters the attic through the gable end vent opening. The air passes through the attic and moves the hot air out through other gable end vents, roof vents and eve vents.

Power Ventilation

An attic can be power ventilated by installing a gable end power vent fan. A power vent fan is mounted inside the attic at the gable vent location. The fan exhausts hot air from inside the attic out through the gable vent.

Considerations

Gable vents increase the energy efficiency of a home. An attic must be vented to prevent heat accumulation above living space; gable vents provide a high level of efficient ventilation.

Source:

Owens Corning: Save Energy Questions

Air Vent Inc: Troubleshooting Tips for Air Vents

Natrual Handyman: Attic Ventilation