Beat the Heat: Stay Cool This Summer with a Reversible Fan

Looking for ways to stay cool this summer?

Dreading the first utility bill of the season?

As summer temperatures soar, the air conditioner cranks up, and so does your energy bill. Before you say hello to a summer of sky-high electricity costs, consider a simple and energy-efficient solution: the reversible ceiling fan.

Here’s how a reversible ceiling fan can keep you cool and save you money:

Wind Chill Effect: Reversible fans don’t actually lower the room’s temperature. Instead, they create a wind chill effect.  In counterclockwise (summer) mode, the fan’s blades push air down, creating a cool breeze that increases evaporation of sweat from your skin, making you feel up to 4 degrees Fahrenheit cooler.

Energy Savings: This wind chill effect allows you to raise your thermostat setting by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.  Every degree you raise your thermostat saves energy.  According to the Department of Energy, setting your thermostat 7-10 degrees higher for 8 hours a day with a fan can save you up to 50% on your cooling costs.

Year-Round Benefits: The beauty of a reversible fan is its versatility.  In the winter, simply switch the direction of the blades (most fans have a switch on the motor housing or a pull-chain) to clockwise mode. This draws cool air up towards the ceiling and pushes warm air down, creating a more comfortable and even temperature distribution throughout the room, reducing reliance on your heater.

Choosing an Energy-Efficient Ceiling Fan:

When shopping for a reversible fan, look for the Energy Star label.  Energy Star-certified fans use significantly less energy than conventional models, often exceeding minimum federal efficiency standards by at least 20%.  This translates to real savings on your energy bills over the lifetime of the fan.

Here are some additional tips for maximizing your fan’s cooling power:

• Right-Size Your Fan: A fan that’s too small won’t circulate air effectively. As a rule of thumb, choose a fan with blades that span 75% to 80% of the diameter of the room.
• Ceiling Height Matters: Ideally, mount your fan 8 to 9 feet above the floor for optimal air circulation.
• Keep Blades Clean: Dust buildup on the blades can reduce airflow and efficiency. Wipe down the blades regularly with a damp cloth.

By following these tips and utilizing the power of a reversible ceiling fan, you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long, while keeping your energy costs under control. Need more specific product recommendations? Contact one of our representatives to make sure you choose the right product for your application.