Should I get an exhaust fan?

[AshleeW]

I live in Bellevue Nebraska, I have seen coops with exhaust fans and without. I am not sure what I should do? Should I get one? Why don’t some have it, are there other options to move air through the coop?

 

[StinkyAcres]

Exhaust fans are nice to have but require electricity and regular cleaning and maintenance. The other option is to have large vents placed in such a way that they provide ample cross ventilation but won't allow drafts to hit the birds, such as in the eaves. Rule of thumb is 1 square foot of vents per bird that stay open 24/7/365.

 

[AshleeW]

Exhaust fans are nice to have but require electricity and regular cleaning and maintenance. The other option is to have large vents placed in such a way that they provide ample cross ventilation but won't allow drafts to hit the birds, such as in the eaves. Rule of thumb is 1 square foot of vents per bird that stay open 24/7/365.

Thank you!

 

[Anon112]

You can construct in such a way that you get natural air flow. Warm air rises, so having a setup where air can get in low, and then leave through the top, but without any wind being able to directly blow on the chickens.

 

[Mother of Chaos]

You can construct in such a way that you get natural air flow. Warm air rises, so having a setup where air can get in low, and then leave through the top, but without any wind being able to directly blow on the chickens.

I agree, but I’ll note that in the peak of summer, with still, hot, humid air, this natural air flow process might need some help.

A fan up in the peak of the eaves, facing outward (pulling hot air out), might be pretty important.