Are you going the right direction ???
Most people think of a ceiling fan as something to keep them cool in the summer or add to the aesthetics of their home. However, most people never think of the energy savings they can bring. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, correctly using a ceiling fan can save on both cooling and heating costs. When used in conjunction with air conditioning in summer, you can raise the thermostat 4 degrees with no loss of comfort and recoup up to 25%-30% on your energy bills; in winter, you can expect to cut costs by up to 10%-15% !
Here are 3 ways to properly use a ceiling fan to lower your utility costs!
1.Turn it off
Get in the habit of turning off the ceiling fan when all the occupants have left that room. The fan makes people in the room feel cooler or warmer but does not change the temperature in the room itself. Shutting off the fan when no one is in the room saves electricity.
2. Direction in Summer
A ceiling fan should rotate counterclockwise in the summer so that the blades push cool air down. The rotation is usually controlled with the switch on the side of the motor housing. If you are unsure if your fan is turning the correct direction, stand directly under the fan and look up: if the fan is moving counterclockwise and you feel a rush of air you are good to go!
A ceiling fan does not actually cool the air in the room. The ceiling fan creates air circulation and a breeze that you feel on your skin. We recommend turning the fan onto its highest speed during the summer.
3.Direction in Winter
Ceiling fan direction in winter should be clockwise and the fan should run at the lowest speed. This pulls cool air up toward the ceiling, which in turn displaces the warm air that rises and collects near the ceiling. The warmer air disperses down toward the floor and along the walls to make the room feel warmer, allowing you to lower the thermostat. When standing under the fan, look up and make sure that the blades are rotating in a clockwise direction.
If you are in need of service to your furnace or would like to get a quote on a new system, please contact us at Alpine Heating & Cooling at one of the below methods.
P: (330) 359.7114 or (330) 263.0013
E: sales@alpinehcservices.com
