It's Time to Change the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan
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As far as country house staples go, a ceiling fan is right up there with hardwood floors, apron sinks, and rocking chairs. There's something about the white-noise whir of a ceiling fan that sets a relaxed, kick-up-your-feet tone while serving up much-needed refreshment during the dog days of summer. We particularly love the easy-breezy feel a ceiling fan can bring to a screened-in porch or a bedroom. (For the record, tastemaker Joanna Gaines has used this aesthetically pleasing pick, and Country Living Contributor Holly Audrey Williams is partial to this one.)
Ceiling fans can also be a real cost-saver. According to the Department of Energy, if you use a ceiling fan during the summer months, you can get away with raising your thermostat about four degrees with no reduction in overall comfort. And while using a ceiling fan during the colder months may seem counterintuitive, it can help redistribute the warm air that naturally rises, helping you save up to 15 percent on heating bills.
To get the most out of your ceiling fan, here are answers to more commonly asked questions.
Which way should a ceiling fan turn during the summer?
Your fan blades should be set to spin counterclockwise which, as the name suggests, is the opposite of the motion seen on a clock. In other words, the fan should spin toward the left to create the desired downdraft.
Which way should a ceiling fan turn during the winter?
When cooler temps come around, your fan blades should be set to spin clockwise which, as the name suggests, mimics the motion seen on a clock. In other words, the fan should spin toward the right to create an updraft. (Use a lower speed setting to avoid creating too much of a breeze—you're just looking to recirculate the warm air.)
How do you change the direction of a ceiling fan?
Generally speaking, there should be a switch by the fan's base that allows you to change the direction. If you have a remote-controlled fan, it may be as simple as pushing a button.
What size ceiling fan is best?
For smaller spaces (think laundry rooms, home offices), something 40 inches or under should do the trick. For living rooms, kitchens, and larger bedrooms, something between 42 to 52 inches is likely best. For larger spaces, explore fans that are 56 inches and upward.
How many blades is best for a ceiling fan?
Most fans come with 3, 4, or 5 blades, and your choice mostly comes down to aesthetics. Some experts say the more blades, the quieter the fan, but that's not always the case. In short, don't lose sleep over blade count. It is, however, worth noting that the angle of your ceiling fan blades should be set between 12 to 15 degrees for maximum cooling.
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