Ceiling Fan in Winter vs. Summer

Features

• Typical ceiling fan features include multiple speed capabilities, lighting options, and a dual directional switch for changing the push or pull of the fan's blades. Fans used to be rather cookie-cutter with the only variations being size and color. Now you can find models in a myriad of metal finishes, styles and colors, and even fans with wood blades or blades that look like giant palm leaves. They went from being a necessity to becoming an accessory in home decor. But can they become a tool for reducing heating and cooling bills as well?

Functions

• The ceiling fan's primary function is obviously to create air movement, but the dual direction switch can create either a downward or upward air current. The speed settings can be used to provide a light breeze or a strong push of air. Often, ceiling fans are used as a source of white noise during sleep.

Summer Use

• The ceiling fan may perhaps seem to be the most useful in the warmer months. Virtually any air movement can relieve some of the discomfort of high temperatures, especially in humid climates. Just a small amount of a breeze against damp skin creates a natural cooling effect. To create the best circulation to redistribute cooler air, the ceiling fan should be set to draw the cooler air that sinks to the floor up toward the ceiling. This setting can be beneficial regardless of whether you have central air, a window or wall unit, or even no air conditioning at all.

Winter Use

• While some people may not be able to tolerate a fan in cooler months, switching the direction of the blades to push the hot air that rises to the ceiling, back down to the floor can not only make heating more efficient, but may allow you to turn the thermostat down as well. Using fans during what are often some of the driest months of the year may not seem very appealing, but when paired with a proper humidifier, can add warmth and comfort to cold winter days and nights.

Energy Savings

• Research conducted at both Kansas State University and the University of Arkansas has shown that if a ceiling fan is used properly, you can see energy savings all year. For every degree increase on the thermostat in the summer, you may save up to 7 percent on your cooling bill. Setting a ceiling fan so that it may aid in thoroughly distributing warm air from the furnace to the rest of the house can save up to 30 percent on your heating bill.