Ceiling fans are probably most used during the hot summer months to help keep your room cool (and in some cases even turn off your air conditioner). But ceiling fans are just as important in winter. When activated, it can push warm air from the ceiling to where you are, making everyone feel more comfortable.
Here’s what you need to know to switch from summer mode to winter mode and stay comfortable this winter with your ceiling fan.
Advantages of running a ceiling fan in winter
Just like in summer, ceiling fans can circulate cool and warm air in your room, making you feel more comfortable. In this case, it may be helpful to rotate the ceiling fan blades clockwise. This creates an updraft that pulls cold air up from the floor toward the ceiling and pushes warm air back toward you.
(Don’t forget to switch back to running counterclockwise when the weather gets warmer in the spring.)
Running a ceiling fan during the winter can help you save money on heating costs without increasing your electricity bill. Most modern ceiling fans run for just a few pennies per hour. And many experts say running a ceiling fan can cut your heating costs by up to 15%, and even lower your thermostat a few degrees for comfort.
How to change the direction of ceiling fan blades
To obtain adequate warmth in winter, the ceiling fan should be operated so that the blades move to the right (clockwise).
If you have a ceiling fan with a remote control or app, changing the direction is very easy. Just look for the button and set the vane to rotate clockwise. If your fan doesn’t have a remote control, check to see if your ceiling fan has a switch on the body that allows you to change the direction of the blades clockwise.
Stand under the fan and look up to see which direction the fan is spinning.
During the summer, you may want to turn your ceiling fan high to blow cool air into the room, but during the winter you want it to be low and slowly push warm air down gently.
Interesting fact: Running a ceiling fan clockwise can help remove smoke and odors from the area. Therefore, it is a good idea to turn it clockwise at other times of the year to help clear the air.
How often to run a ceiling fan in winter
When there are people in the room, turn on the ceiling fan to help blow warm air to people. You can also turn it off when everyone leaves the room so no one feels the warmth.