How to Set Your Ceiling Fan

Modern ceiling fans are not just for hot summer days anymore. Most fans have directional settings, so you can have them blowing down or pulling air up. In the winter, the slow upward draft through blades will push the warm air downward at the edges of the room. Using the directional switch, in conjunction with a standard three-speed pull chain, can make the fan useful year-round.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder

Instructions

1. Start the fan (via the wall switch or chain) and watch as it starts turning to determine which way it's turning, clockwise or counterclockwise, as viewed from directly underneath and looking up. Turn the fan back off.

2. Climb on your ladder to access the switch on the fan housing, just above the blades. For a winter setting, push the switch to the right, so the fan will run clockwise, pulling the air upward. For a summer setting, push the switch to the left, for a counterclockwise setting, which will push the air downward.

3. Turn the fan back on at the wall. Pull the chain on the fan repeatedly until you're certain you have it on the fastest setting, then pull it three more times. The fan should gradually come to a stop.

4. Pull the chain once, twice or three times depending on whether you want a fast, medium or slow speed. Generally, you'll want a faster setting for summer and the slowest one for winter.

Tips & Warnings

• Use caution when climbing the ladder.

References

• DannyLipford.com: Ceiling Fan Settings.