What are your Thoughts / Opinions / Advice on Attic Fans

[Joshua Dorkin]

Hey All -
I've got a question about attic fans (not whole house fans) that I hope to get some feedback on. The attic fan in my house has been non-functional since we moved in 3+ years back. I've heard so much mixed advice about the fire danger associated with these things that I haven't gone and fixed or replaced ours.

I'm not sure why I didn't ask sooner here on BP Nation, but it is damn hot out there this summer, and I think it is long overdue that we do something to cool the attic off.

So . . . what are all of your thoughts? Are electrical attic fans serious fire dangers?

I also hear that they can be very loud. Thoughts?

Finally . . . what of solar attic fans? Worthwhile? (no fire danger there, I know)

Thanks everyone!