Is your ceiling fan keeping you cool and comfortable or costing you more in energy bills? The direction your ceiling fans spin makes a big difference in how effectively they circulate air and reduce cooling costs. Follow these tips to ensure your ceiling fans spin the right way this summer.
Counterclockwise Rotation
In the summer, your ceiling fans should spin counterclockwise. This produces a downdraft effect, circulating air downwards and creating a cooling breeze. Counterclockwise rotation pushes the cooled air in the room back down towards you instead of pulling warm air up. This means your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using ceiling fans can reduce a household’s annual cooling costs by up to 40%. With the average U.S. household spending $1,945 on utilities like cooling per year, making sure your ceiling fans spin correctly can lead to significant savings on your energy bill.
Adjust Fan Directions in Different Rooms
While counterclockwise is best for cooling, you may need to adjust the direction of ceiling fans in some rooms. In enclosed, ventilated spaces like bathrooms, a clockwise rotation can be helpful to draw fresh air up and circulate it better.
Ceiling fans in rooms with no or limited air conditioning may benefit from a clockwise spin to pull warmer air upwards, depending on the layout.
Pay Attention to Fan Speed
The speed at which your ceiling fans rotate also impacts efficiency. A moderate speed is optimal – too fast and the fans will create a draft. Slowing ceiling fans down in occupied rooms saves energy while still providing airflow. Use wall switches, remote controls or smart technology to control fan speeds.
Switch Directions in the Winter
Come wintertime, reverse the direction of your ceiling fan blades to clockwise for optimal air circulation. Clockwise rotation pushes warm air down into living spaces, recirculating heat trapped near the ceiling to where you need it most. Maintaining proper ceiling fan direction by season will maximize their heating and cooling effects in your home.
With a few easy adjustments, your ceiling fans can help keep energy bills in check and rooms comfortable all year long. Be sure all the ceiling fans in your home are spinning in the optimal direction for the season to enjoy maximum savings. Call Premier and find the perfect ceiling fan for your home today.
