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Guide to Ceiling Fan Direction for Summer and Winter

The most popular question that our customers ask is "Which way should a ceiling fan turn in Summer or Winter?". Properly changing the direction of the blades can add a cool breeze to any home in the warmer months and distribute warmer air more evenly in the cooler months. This reduces energy usage and electric bills. Home ceiling fans are a great and affordable way to add comfort to your home year-round.

Summer ceiling fan direction - counter-clockwise/forward

Counter Clockwise
  • This rotation creates a downward airflow which creates a cooling breeze.
  • Circulating air accelerates evaporation of perspiration on skin, making it feel cooler.
  • The actual temperature in the room will not change, however it will feel 6-8 degrees cooler.
  • Allows you to increase the thermostat setting to save up to 40% on A/C costs.
  • Outdoor ceiling fans are a great way to help cool off outdoor living areas in the summer.

Winter ceiling fan direction - clockwise/reverse

Clockwise
  • Reverse mode re-circulates warmer air trapped near the ceiling down to floor level.
  • Helps distribute warmer air where it is needed the most.
  • Lowers energy usage in the winter months up to 15%.
  • Have fan on low speed when in reverse mode. Otherwise, it will create a wind chill effect.
  • Easiest way to change direction each season is with a ceiling fan with reverse from control.

Operating a ceiling fan properly year round will help save money on cooling and heating bills without sacrificing on comfort in the Summer and Winter months. For additional savings on cooling and heating bills look into Energy Star fans.

How to change the direction of your ceiling fan

If you have a fan with wall control or remote controlled ceiling fan that has a reverse from control option, then you can change the direction of your fan with just a push of a button. If not, follow these simple steps to change the direction of your fan.

  1. Shut off ceiling fan then wait until the blades have completely stopped.

  2. Get a step stool or ladder to stand on.

  3. Locate the directional (forward/reverse) toggle switch on the body of your fan.

  4. Flip the toggle switch in the opposite direction.

  5. Get off step stool or ladder.

  6. Turn fan back on.

  7. Stand directly under the fan and make sure the blades are rotating in the proper direction for the season.

  8. Then sit back and enjoy the comfort and savings that a ceiling fan will provide year round.

If you are having a problem changing the direction of your fan check out our Ceiling Fan Troubleshooting guide for helpful instructions.


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