Generally, people think of using a ceiling fan in hot and humid weather to generate a breeze and cool down a room. This is done by releasing heat near the skin allowing you to feel cooler in the space you are in. But ceiling fans are also a great tool to use in the winter months.
If you’re looking for ways to heat your home more efficiently, save on energy costs, and be more environmentally friendly, then look up. It is estimated that using a fan in the winter can help save about 10% on heating and energy costs.
How to Use Your Ceiling Fan in the Winter
A fan is normally used in the counterclockwise direction which creates a cooling effect. When standing below the fan, look up and see which direction it is running in to determine the current setting. In the winter, set your fan to rotate in a clockwise direction. You can usually find the switch at the base of the fan, so you might need a ladder to access the switch. Make sure you check when the fan is turned off.
How the Ceiling Fan Works to Warm the Room
As warm air rises, the warmest air in the room can be found near the ceiling. When you rotate the fan in the clockwise direction, the warm air near the ceiling is pushed upward and outward, circulating it to the perimeter of the room and down. When using your fan in the winter months, you’ll want to run it on a low setting.
When to Replace Your Ceiling Fan
If your ceiling fan is an older unit, it may not have the switch to change directions. Upgrading to a newer, energy efficient model will save on costs in the long run. Contact us to help install a new ceiling fan that you can use for both winter and summer months.
Maintaining Your Ceiling Fan
Switching the direction of your fan twice per year is also a good time to do routine maintenance. Clean the blades on the fan, replace any burnt out lightbulbs, and check for any service issues or noises.
Contact Us to Install Your Ceiling Fan
Using a ceiling fan will also help to improve air circulation in your home. So, when days start to turn cooler, clean and maintain your fan, switch the direction to clockwise and then run the fan on low. Use the fan only when you are in the room. These tips will help you to stay a bit warmer in the winter. Used wisely, ceiling fans can help homeowners save on heating costs.
If you’re looking to install a new ceiling fan or upgrade an older model, contact our electricians to come out and make sure the electrical system is working optimally and to manage your ceiling fan installation.
