Set Ceiling Fan Direction by Season

Most homeowners don't know fans have a reverse switch — and that running them the right way drops AC and heating costs noticeably.

Difficulty: Easy Time: 2 min Cost: $0

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1

Find the direction switch

There's a small slide or toggle switch on the side of the motor housing. Some smart fans flip via remote or app.
2

Summer: counterclockwise (looking up)

Pushes air straight down, creating a wind-chill effect that lets you set the thermostat 4°F higher without feeling warmer.

Tip: Stand under the running fan. If you feel a breeze, it's set for summer.
3

Winter: clockwise (looking up), low speed

Pulls cool air up and pushes warm air down along the walls. No direct breeze, just gentle circulation. Especially helpful with cathedral ceilings where heat pools.
4

Turn fans off in unoccupied rooms

Fans cool people, not rooms. Running a fan in an empty room wastes electricity.