Does your ceiling fan have a ‘winter’ setting?

(WTAJ) — As the cold weather begins to creep its way into Pennsylvania, you may want to hold off on turning off that ceiling fan just yet.

You might think we’re crazy for telling you to keep your ceiling fans on, even as you turn the heat on to prepare for winter weather. However, leaving those fans on could help you save energy and money this winter.

Before you crank up your ceiling fan and sit back to relax, it is important to understand the way in which the fan operates when it comes to distributing air back through the room. During the summer, a fan should spin counterclockwise. This helps the blades push a breeze downward which inherently makes the room feel cooler.

However, in the winter, avid fan users are encouraged to spin the blade clockwise at a slower speed. This reverses the effects of the summer fan, where now the warm air is circulated back into the room. Warm air is considered lighter than cold air, which means it can stay trapped at the ceiling, which means that circulation from the fan blades can help keep a room comfortable.

Yes and no, a ceiling fan’s direction can help recirculate air no matter the type of blade. However, the location of the fan may change what direction you spin the blades, according to Home Depot.

Vaulted ceilings: Leave the fan on the counterclockwise setting year-round. The height of the fan mount makes it unlikely you’ll feel any wind chill

Dining rooms: To keep the fan from cooling your food too quickly, set it to turn clockwise at a medium or low speed. There will still be air circulation to cool you

Home office: If you are working on paperwork, a fan set to medium and turning clockwise will keep things from blowing everywhere

Smokers: Set your ceiling fans to run clockwise when you have a family member or guest who smokes indoors. This will draw the smoke up and away. Open a few windows or turn the AC fan to exhaust and help the smoke leave the room

Outdoor: An outdoor ceiling fan on a porch or covered patio can help with insect control. Turn the fan on and have it rotated counterclockwise at high speed. The force of the air will help to keep mosquitos and other flying insects away

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