Fan confusion: Expert tips to end the ceiling fan confusion

We get a steady stream of questions about ceiling fans. Do they really help you save energy, or are they just for comfort? Should you change the direction between summer and winter? And is it ever okay to leave them running when you’re not in the room?

Ceiling fans are a home’s unsung hero, but only if you use them right. Here’s what you need to know. Let’s clear things up with some quick tips.

Fans cool people, not rooms

If you leave the room, turn the fan off. Otherwise, you’re just spinning up your electric bill. This simple habit can save you up to $7 a month, per fan.

Let your fan help your A/C

The breeze from the fan makes you feel cooler, so you can set your thermostat a few degrees higher and still stay comfortable. A fan can make you feel up to 3 degrees cooler, so a 75-degree setting can start feeling like 72. 

Change direction with the seasons

Summer: Flip your fan to spin counterclockwise for a cool breeze.

Winter: Switch to clockwise, on a low setting, to gently push warm air down and keep things cozy.

Use these tips to keep your comfort high and costs low, no matter the season.