Spring and warmer temperatures are approaching fast! Is your ceiling fan spinning the correct direction for the warmer weather? Many people are unaware that the direction your ceiling fan spins can actually play a role in how warm or cool your home is and thus can have a direct impact on energy bills! Your fan should be spinning counterclockwise in the warmer months, and clockwise in the winter months.

When your fan is set to counterclockwise, it creates a downdraft. This creates that cooling breeze and helps to circulate the cooler air under the fan, thus helping keep you and your house cooler. When your fan is set to clockwise, it creates an updraft which circulates warmer air that is trapped up by your ceiling (heat rises) around the entire room. In both situations, this helps to keep your whole house at a comfortable temperature and prevent your furnace and/or air conditioner from working overtime.

Wait…the ceiling fan direction can be changed? It sure can! Most ceiling fans have a small switch that can change the direction of the fan, some fans have a remote control where you can simply hold a button and it will reverse, and some even have an app that can be used! If you’re not sure, take a look at your owner’s manual. Be sure your ceiling fan is off and completely stopped before attempting to flip the switch to the opposite direction! Daylight savings time is usually a good indicator and reminder to switch your fan direction. Counterclockwise for “spring forward” and clockwise for “fall back”.