Can Ceiling Fans Really Help Keep You Warm in Winter?
You might have heard that ceiling fans can help keep you warm in the winter. Is that true or false? Reliable Heating & Cooling, your trusted HVAC partner, is here to shine light on the subject and bring you helpful, money-saving winter tips for New York homeowners. Read on to discover more!
Change Directions
Do you know which direction your fan should spin to maximize your home’s heat retention? Most fans have a small switch on the motor housing that changes direction. Be sure to change your fan to spin clockwise on the lowest speed setting during the winter months. This simple step creates a gentle updraft that pulls cool air up and forces warm air down along the walls without creating a chilly breeze. The result is a more comfortable home and lower energy bills!
How Ceiling Fans Help
You might have heard the expression, “Heat rises.” Warm air naturally collects near the ceiling. In rooms with high ceilings, that heat can get trapped above you, while the living space stays cooler. When you switch a ceiling fan to spin clockwise, it helps by pushing that warm air back down where it can help warm the area more efficiently.
Ceiling fans help to redistribute the heat already produced by your
heating system. They do not create heat. However, by using this method of moving warm air from the ceiling area back down towards the floor, it can have a dramatic impact on your home’s comfort.
When used properly, a ceiling fan can make a room feel a few degrees warmer and reduce cold spots. This simple trick allows you to slightly lower your
thermostat, saving money on your energy bill. Using ceiling fans in the winter also saves everyday wear and tear on your heating system, preventing parts from wearing out as quickly and extending its lifespan.
Common Winter Fan Misconceptions
While ceiling fans really can help keep you warm in winter, there are a few things to keep in mind. It's essential to change the direction your fan spins from counterclockwise to clockwise. The key is to use the lowest speed setting. Operating your fan on a high speed setting will create a chilly draft. Operating your ceiling fans in the winter does not replace a heating system – it only supplements it.
Does It Affect Energy Usage?
Ceiling fans do not use a significant amount of energy while operating. The energy savings from reducing the demand on your heating system usually outweigh the cost of operating fans, leaving more money in your pockets. When no one is occupying a room, turn the ceiling fan off to save even more.
Stay Warm All Winter Long
Call Reliable Heating & Cooling today at (347) 979-0430 for all your HVAC needs. We pride ourselves on being your one-stop heating and cooling shop. Whether you need a new heating system installation, tune-up, or repairs, we've got you covered. Our friendly team can even provide indoor air quality services to help you and your loved ones breathe easier. We look forward to helping you improve your home’s comfort!
