Can You Use a Fan Year-Round?
Spring forward and fall back with your fan direction
Two of the most commonly asked questions about fans are whether or not a fan can be used year-round and how to use the forward and reverse settings on a fan. To answer one of these questions is to answer them both. Yes, you can use your fan year-round – you just change the direction of the fan.
Most fans come equipped with a forward and reverse setting. The forward setting turns the fan blades in a downwards position, which pushes the air down towards the floor. The forward position should be used in warmer conditions since the air will blow directly on you to cool you off.
The reverse setting turns the blades upwards, which pushes the air towards the ceiling. In cooler temperatures the fan should be in its reverse setting so that it gently mixes the cooler air closer to the floor with the warmer air closer to the ceiling without blowing a breeze onto you or your guests.
The speed will also have an effect on the fan’s performance; a higher fan speed will move more air. Below you will find a guide which indicates the average speed and direction of fans in each of the four seasons:
Spring – In the spring your fan should be in its forward setting at a low or medium speed. The low-forward setting will make the air feel slightly cooler. As the temperature increases you may want to switch from low to medium speed.
Summer – In the summertime, when temperatures are warmer, your fan should be in its forward setting at a medium to high speed. A high speed will provide you with the strongest breeze and the coolest air.
Fall – In the fall, when temperatures begin to get cooler again, you will want your fan to be in a reverse setting at a medium speed. The medium-reverse setting will make the air feel moderate and comfortable. As the temperatures continue to get cooler you may want to change the setting to a lower speed.
Winter – In the winter, when temperatures are cooler, you will want to have your fan in its reverse setting on low speed. The low-reverse setting will help to force warmer air down into the room making the air feel warmer.
