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Get the Most out of your Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can help improve comfort and efficiency year-round.
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If you use air conditioning to cool your home, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort. Follow these simple tips to get the most out of your ceiling fans!

Choosing a Fan:

Choose a fan based on the size of your room:
  • For rooms up to 225 square feet, use a 36-inch or 44-inch diameter fan.
  • For larger rooms, choose a fan with a diameter of 52-inches or more.
  • For longer rooms, consider multiple fans for optimal comfort.
Be sure to choose a model with an Energy Star label for maximum efficiency!

Direction Matters:

Ceiling fan direction should be adjusted seasonally to optimize comfort:
  • In the summer, fans should operate in a counterclockwise direction to create a cool
    breeze.
  • In the fall, switch fans to turn clockwise at a low speed to circulate warm air. This
    improves both comfort and efficiency.
Look for the switch on the base of the fan to change its direction.

Other Tips:

Turn off ceiling fans when leaving the room to save energy.

Key Takeaways:

  • If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting
    about 4°F with no reduction in comfort.
  • Ceiling fan direction should be adjusted seasonally for optimal comfort,
    counterclockwise in the summer and clockwise in the fall and winter.
  • Choose a fan that has the Energy Star label and is an appropriate size for the room.