Which Way Should I Set My Ceiling Fan in the Summer?

Blade Direction

• The summer setting for your ceiling fan blades should be rotating counterclockwise. Slide the switch that is located on the housing unit and stand underneath the fan to test the direction of the air. The blades will create a downward push of air, and you will feel a cool breeze if the switch is in the correct position. Do the opposite for cold weather, and the blade should turn clockwise on the lowest speed. Going clockwise produces an updraft and forces the warm air near the ceiling down.

Speed

• Low, medium, and high are the three most common speed choices on a fan; however, some fans may have more or less. A remote control can be used to adjust the speed, as well as the off and on switch. If there is not a remote control, look for a chain pull coming from the center of the unit. Depending on the number of speeds, the speed is adjusted with a certain number of quick pulls on the chain. One pull for low, two pulls for medium and so on. Setting a comfortable speed will depend on personal preference. You may want a strong breeze or may be comfortable with a soft movement of air.

Size

• The correct size fan depends on the dimensions of the room. Blade spans range from 29 to 54 inches. A 75 square foot room will need the small size fan, 29 to 26 inches. The next fan size is 36 to 42 inches and is recommended for 76 to 144 square foot rooms. Rooms in the 144 to 225 square foot range will need a 44-inch fan. The largest fan is 50 to 54 inches and can maintain a room 225 to 400 square feet. Oblong rooms can be divided in half, and two smaller fans can be used to meet the cooling needs.

Style

• Match the style of the fan with the room decor. Besides choosing a color for the unit and blades, you will also find trim of gold, bronze or silver. Some blades look like wood or bamboo. Blades can often be flipped, generally a light colored side and a darker flip side. The wrong design on the ceiling fan will stand out as much as an odd, unmatched piece of furniture.