Use Ceiling Fans to Reduce Heating and Cooling Costs Year Round

Reduce Heating Costs this winter by using ceiling fans

With fuel costs rising and winter on its way, now is the time to make sure your house is winterized and weather proof. If you already have ceiling fans, winter is definitely the time to turn them on. While most people think of installing a ceiling fan for summer cooling, studies show that you can save about 10% on your heating bill by using these fans in conjunction with your heating system. Fans are especially useful if you have high ceilings. However, since most ceilings are 8 feet or higher the gently spinning blades will push the warm air down and towards the center of the room.

Winter set up

To get the most out of your ceiling fan this winter, make sure that you have your blades spinning in a clockwise direction. If your fan is mounted on a high ceiling you may need a step ladder or 8 foot ladder to actually get up into the fan and reverse the direction of the switch. If you have a wall control for the ceiling fan, you will also want to adjust the blade speed to the slowest spin.

Summer set up

Using a ceiling fan does not actually lower the temperature of your room as does a cooling system. What it does do, though, is blow cool air around making you feel about 8 degrees cooler. So, what you can do is set your thermostat a few degrees higher (this is how you start saving money) and the breeze from the fan will keep you comfortable.

To set up your fan, make sure that your blades are spinning in a counter-clockwise position. For maximum cooling put your fan on the highest possible setting. By using a ceiling fan in conjunction with your cooling system or air conditioner you can save up to 40% off your overall summer cooling bill.

Author Nicole Martins is busy decorating her new home in the mountains. Read more about ceiling fans or click here