What Direction Should a Ceiling Fan Rotate Depending on Heating or Cooling?
The direction a ceiling fan rotates determines its effect on the perceived temperature of the room. Although ceiling fans do not change the actual temperature of a space, the breeze and air circulation can make it feel warmer or cooler. Does this Spark an idea?
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Cooling
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A ceiling fan that rotates counterclockwise makes a room feel cooler, because the blades circulate air through the room, making perspiration evaporate more quickly. This is similar to a breeze on a warm day.
Heating
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A ceiling fan that rotates clockwise makes a room feel warmer. Warm air rises, and the clockwise rotation will disperse the warmer air near the ceiling throughout the room, closer to where the occupants are sitting or sleeping.
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Significance
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Ceiling fans cool and heat rooms at a much lower cost than a traditional heating or cooling system, particularly when used in tandem. According to the Hansen Wholesale company, a ceiling fan costs 3 cents per hour, while central air conditioning costs $1 per hour. The ceiling fan represents a significant savings.
Warning
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A ceiling fan installed 6 inches or less from the ceiling will not be able to disperse air efficiently. Follow installation instructions closely when putting in a new ceiling fan.
Considerations
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Not all ceiling fans are equal. The stronger and faster the blades, the more of a heating or cooling effect the fan can have. A ceiling fan with variable-speed settings can provide more control.
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References
- Photo Credit Ceiling Fan image by Towards Ithaca from Fotolia.com
