How to adjust the fan's direction for summer and winter
To optimize a ceiling fan for summer and winter, you need to adjust its direction. In summer, set the fan to rotate counterclockwise to create a cooling downdraft, and in winter, rotate it clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling. This helps distribute air more efficiently, potentially saving on energy costs.
This video demonstrates how to adjust the fan's direction for summer and winter:
Summer (Cooling):
Direction: Counterclockwise (as viewed from below).
Effect: Creates a cooling downdraft, pushing air downwards, which helps to create a wind chill effect and make you feel cooler.
Benefit: Allows you to raise your thermostat setting slightly, saving energy while still feeling comfortable according to Save on Energy programs.
Watch this video for a detailed explanation of how to set the fan direction for summer:
Winter (Heating):
Direction: Clockwise (as viewed from below).
Effect: Warms the room by pushing the warm air that rises to the ceiling down towards the floor.
Benefit: Redistributes the heated air, allowing you to lower your thermostat setting without sacrificing comfort, potentially saving on heating costs according to Save on Energy programs.
This video explains how the ceiling fan direction in winter can help distribute warm air:
How to Change Direction:
Turn off the fan: Ensure the fan is completely stopped before changing the direction.
Locate the switch: Find the reversing switch, usually on the motor housing (some fans have remote control options).
Switch the direction: Flip the switch to the opposite direction (if it's a vertical switch, down is typically summer, up is winter).
Turn the fan back on: Confirm the fan is rotating in the correct direction for the season.