Ceiling fan direction by season
Counterclockwise in summer, clockwise in winter.
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Summer
ENERGY STAR says to run the fan counterclockwise in summer. Standing under it, you should feel a cool breeze. The DOE says this creates a wind chill effect.
Winter
ENERGY STAR says to reverse the motor and run the fan at low speed, clockwise, in winter. That makes a gentle updraft that moves warm air near the ceiling down into the room.
How to switch
ENERGY STAR describes a motor reversing switch on the fan's switch housing as a standard control, and says many makers also offer remote or wall controls. Your manual shows which yours has. Turn the fan off and let the blades stop before you touch it.
Turn it off when you leave
ENERGY STAR and the DOE both say fans cool people, not rooms. Turn the fan off when the room is empty.
FAQ
General information only. Ceiling fans and light fixtures are electrical equipment. Hire a licensed electrician for any installation, wiring, electrical box, switch, or light kit work, and follow the fan maker's manual and your local electrical code. Before cleaning, changing a bulb, or checking a fan, turn it off and let the blades stop and the bulbs cool; turn off power at the circuit breaker before any work near the fan's wiring. Use a stable ladder, and if you are not comfortable working overhead, call a pro. Never use a bulb above the maximum wattage marked on the fixture. If a fan or light flickers, buzzes, smells hot, or trips a breaker, stop using it and call a licensed electrician.
Next: fans and energy
Cool people, not rooms.
