Which Direction Should My Ceiling Fan Turn in the Winter?

Which Direction Should My Ceiling Fan Turn in the Winter?

Ceiling fans are a great home appliance for summer, but did you know that they are also handy in the fall and winter?!

Changing the direction of your ceiling fan in the summer and the winter not only makes life more comfortable, but it also allows you to adjust the thermostat and give your AC or heating unit a much needed break. Your wallet will also get some much needed rest.

Here’s everything you need to know about changing your ceiling fan direction and how it can help you save!

Which direction should it spin?

Most ceiling fans have a “clockwise” setting and a “counterclockwise” setting, each appropriate in a different season.

Ceiling fan blades rotating in a counterclockwise direction create cool downward airflow. This is the optimal direction during summer months when you want to feel cooler.

Fan blades rotating in the clockwise direction move warm air around the room which would normally rise to the ceiling away from people and pets. This movement of warm air will make the room feel warmer and will help make your home more efficient in the cooler months.

Ceiling Fan. Summer Counterclockwise. Winter Clockwise

 

Setting your fan's direction

Stand beneath your fan and turn it on. If you immediately feel a breeze from your fan, then you know it’s on the “summer” setting or the counterclockwise direction.

If you wish to turn your fan on to its “winter” setting, or the clockwise direction, turn the fan off (and wait for it to stop spinning). Climb up near the base of the fan, and look for a little button or switch that sets the fan to run in the opposite direction.


Tip: Use removable tape to label either side of the switch “summer” or “winter” so you don’t have to think about it each season!


If you do not have a switch setting, it is possible you have a pull cord that will change the direction of your ceiling fan.

To recap, your ceiling fan should be spinning in the counterclockwise direction during summer months, and the clockwise direction in the cooler, winter and fall months.

To prepare your home for other seasonal changes, read, "How to Keep Your Apartment Warm and Costs Low During the Winter" and "7 Easy Tips to Maximize Your AC This Summer!".