As a low cost means to save energy dollars, roof vents are all too often overlooked.
The hottest part of any house is the attic.
Temperatures there can often reach 130 degrees.
Despite the presence of insulation in the ceiling rafters, heat from that overheated space will seep down into the living area, raising the temperature there and causing the air conditioner to run unnecessarily.
The heat needs a means to escape and cooler temperatures need a way to get in.
Powered vents in the roof or a vertically mounted, shuttered fan in a gable will help move air out.
Running electric power to the upper regions of a house is not hard or particularly expensive.
A solar powered roof vent is also available but it can be pricey.
A ridge vent is also very effective but that usually is built in place when the house is constructed.
The outside air can come in by means of eave vents.
These vents can be cut into the eaves and covered with a screen.
Decorative vents may also be installed in gable walls surrounding the attic area.
Calculations should be made that take into account the size of the attic so the amount of incoming air is enough to optimize the cooling effects of the venting.
Good venting will also allow the dissipation of moisture from the attic; this will prolong the life of the wood beams in the attic.
A nice aspect of proper ventilation is that it is a one time expense that will pay for itself many times over.