Running ceiling fans counterclockwise can help you keep cool. This is because of the wind-chill factor, which wicks moisture away from the skin and lowers body heat. A ceiling fan doesn’t actually lower the temperature of a room, but it can make you feel more comfortable. You may even be able to set your thermostat up several degrees. Your cooling system won’t have to work as hard. You save energy and decrease equipment wear and tear.
When the weather turns cooler, ceiling fans can generate savings and comfort. If you reverse the motor, the fan will turn clockwise. Running it at a low clockwise speed will create a gentle updraft that forces warm rising air back down. Preserving the heat that your system creates reduces the amount it has to create. You may be able to save even more by setting the thermostat down a bit.
Ceiling fans can be dramatic comfort-enhancers. Here are a few tips on how to choose the right model and get the most for your money:
- Large fan blades circulate more air than small blades. This means larger-bladed models can be efficient, even at lower speeds.
- Big rooms that are 18 feet or longer will probably need several fans to keep the air circulating.
- Ceiling fans are best installed on ceilings that are at least 8 feet high. Installing them on lower ceilings will make them less effective and could pose a safety hazard.
- In warm weather, keep the fans turned off when no one’s in the room. Remember, fans don’t actually lower the temperature.
- Listen to your fan running before you purchase it, if possible, to ensure that it’s not too noisy.
Call Rodenhiser for expert ceiling fan installation that can save you money and preserve your HVAC equipment. We’ll be happy to help.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about ceiling fans and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Solutions Guide.
Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning serves the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. Visit our website to see our special offers to get started today!
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