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Clockwise or counterclockwise – which way should your ceiling fan go in summer?

The direction your ceiling fan rotates affects airflow. Here's what you should know

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ceiling fan on wood beam ceiling
alvinmatt / Pixabay

Did you know that you can change the direction your ceiling fan spins? Doing so can help influence the circulation of air in your home. This is an important hack to know for summer because it can help you keep your home cool, even on the hottest days. So, what is the best ceiling fan direction for summer? Here’s everything you need to know.

Does it matter which direction your ceiling fan turns?

white farmhouse bedroom with minimalist interior
Curtis Adams / Pexels

While it may not seem like it, the direction of your ceiling fan can dramatically change the airflow in your home. Here’s how.

Clockwise

When your ceiling fan spins clockwise, the angle of the blades creates an updraft. This pushes air toward the ceiling, which causes any warm air to disperse outward and downward in the room. You’ve likely heard the phrase “heat rises,” and this is precisely why spinning your ceiling fan clockwise on a low setting helps move warmer air throughout the home.

Counterclockwise

When your ceiling fan spins counterclockwise, this creates a downdraft. The air pushes down toward the floor, creating a cooler breeze. You can feel the difference when you stand beneath the fan.

Which way should your ceiling fan spin for summer?

traditional living room design with yellow and grey color palette
Curtis Adams / Pexels

Setting your fan direction to spin counterclockwise is the best setting for summer. The downdraft created by the fan will provide a nice breeze through the home. Additionally, it won’t force hot air from the ceiling back down to the floor. By setting your fan direction to rotate counterclockwise in the summer, you can save on your cooling bill since there will be a comforting breeze to rest beneath on hot summer days, meaning you may not have to run your AC as often.

How do you change your ceiling fan direction?

traditional bedroom with wood closet wall
23 Audiovisual / Pexels

Depending on the type and model of your ceiling fan, there are several ways you can change the spin direction. If you can, reference your owner’s manual or do a quick search of your specific model to find instructions online. We’ll cover the basics below.

Pull-chain ceiling fan

Many pull-chain ceiling fans have a switch. This switch could be on the side of the central body of the fan or beneath the light cover. Turn off your fan and light, grab a stepladder, and look for a switch on the unit. Flip the switch in the opposite direction, and then turn on your ceiling fan once more.

Remote ceiling fan

Some ceiling fans have remote controls to help operate them. If this is the case, consult your owner’s manual to find the proper method for you. Most remote-controlled fans can have their rotation switched by pressing and holding a specific button.

Knowing how to switch your ceiling fan direction is essential for saving on your energy bill. It’s also a great hack to ensure you can stay warm in winter and cool in summer.

Amelia Wilson
Amelia Wilson
Former Author
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