Change the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan for Summer

What is the Proper Ceiling Fan Direction for Summer and Winter?

Like backyard barbecues and neighborhood pool parties, ceiling fans are often a summertime staple, but did you know you could use a fan to heat your home during the winter? You can by changing the fan direction.

Changing the direction of the ceiling fan alters the fan blade movement so the blades rotate counterclockwise in the summer and clockwise in the winter. This is an effective way to regulate comfort, reduce energy costs, and increase utility savings year-around. Adjusting a ceiling fan’s blade rotation is as easy as pressing a button or flipping a switch.

Here are some tips to help you determine the proper ceilign fan directon for each season.

Counterclockwise Fan Direction for Summer

Ceiling fans spinning a counterclockwise direction are a cost-effective way to increase your comfort during the summer. The counterclockwise fan blades push cool air downward, creating a wind chill effect that accelerates the evaporation of perspiration and makes a room feel up to four to eight degrees cooler without altering the temperature (see Figure 1). This allows you to raise the thermostat setting a few degrees, decreasing the use of the air conditioning unit and reducing energy consumption.

If spending time outside is the highlight of your summer, outdoor fans are great for remaining cool in your home’s exterior spaces such gazebos, patios, and porches. Exterior ceiling fans are designed to withstand outdoor elements like humidity, rain, snow, and water. Verify your outdoor ceiling fan is rated for damp or wet environments to ensure performance, longevity, and of course, comfort.

Figure 1
In the summer, fan blades move in a counterclockwise direction to push cool air downward.

 

  Five Reasons to Change Your Fan Direction for Summer

  1. Enjoy the cooling wind-chill effect on your skin

  2. Feel four degrees cooler without sacrificing comfort or style

  3. Spend more time outdoors with family

  4. Reduce central or window air conditioning use, utilizing less energy

  5. Save up to 40 percent on air conditioning costs

Clockwise Fan Direction for Winter

Fans moving at a low-speed clockwise direction are an economical way to heat your home during the winter. The clockwise fan blades create a gentle updraft that recirculates the warm air that naturally rises to the ceiling with the cool air that sinks to the floor (seeFigure 2). This allows you to rely less on heating devices like space heaters or heating blankets, which may pose health and injury risks as well as the cost of heating fuel and materials.

 

Figure 2

In the winter, the blades move in a clockwise direction to pull cool air upward and push warmer air downward.

  Five Reasons to Winterize Your Fan

  1. Stay warm and comfortable during the wintertime

  2. Reduce clutter due to electrical appliances like space heaters

  3. Decrease electric hazards and accidents due to heating blankets

  4. Reduce the cost heating fuel and materials

  5. Lower energy consumption up to 15 percent

In the winter, a ceiling fan spinning in a clockwise direction adds warmth to a bedroom, kitchen or living room. Parents may install a whimsical kid’s ceiling fan to ensure their children are comfortable and warm as they sleep throughout the evening.

How to Change the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan

Many manufacturers offer models with ceiling fan remotes with reverse to adjust the fan blade direction at the push of a button. However, if your ceiling fan does not have a handheld remote or wall control, you can easily change the blade rotation by flipping the direction switch on the motor housing in the opposite direction. Push the switch down for downward airflow in the summer. Push the switch up for an upward airflow in the winter. Change your ceiling fan's direction at the beginning of summer and winter seasons, here's how:

1. Shut off the ceiling fan and wait for the blades to stop completely
2. Obtain a ladder or step stool to reach the fan body
3. Flip the directional switch on the motor housing
4. Step down from the ladder or step stool and turn the fan back on
5. Stand below the fan and verify blades are moving in the right direction

If the blades are rotating correctly for the season, you should feel cool air during the summer and no air movement during the winter. In addition, listen for odd noises and watch for any unsteadiness. Wobbling or shaking is a sign that a fan needs additional maintenance such as balancing. If you encounter any additional difficulties, see our troubleshooting guides with answers to common ceiling fan problems.

Benefits of Seasonally Changing Your Ceiling Fan Direction

Changing your ceiling fan direction is a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to cool and heat your home year-round without sacrificing your personal comfort. Some homeowners have reported an annual savings of $500; however, total saving may vary depending on your location, housing characteristics, and energy cost in your area. Select a new ceiling fan from our bestselling selection of remote controlled, reverse from the motor ceiling fans below.

Article Written by +Colby Harris