Ceiling Fan Direction: Which Way Should a Ceiling Fan Turn

Keep energy costs low and temperatures comfortable by knowing which direction ceiling fans should turn in the summer and winter.

Why Homeowners Love Ceiling Fans

Installing ceiling fans in your home is a great way to disperse air throughout your house. Fans can help immensely in the summer months because you get more bang for your buck regarding air conditioning distribution. They may even provide enough breeze to allow you to eliminate A/C usage altogether.

Did you know that ceiling fans can also be beneficial in the winter? They can help push the heat back down, causing your heater to turn on less frequently.

The key to ceiling fan usage lies in the fan direction. A simple flip of a switch has the power to

Improve energy savings
Provide better heat
Cool a room

Should the ceiling fan direction switch left or right for summer?

Keep yourself cool by switching the ceiling fan direction to move counterclockwise on hot summer days. Having the fan move counterclockwise will cause the blades to push cooler air straight down, giving you a nice, direct breeze. The higher the temperature, the higher the speed should be for maximum airflow.

A good way to know if your fan is spinning the right way is to stand directly below it and see if you can feel the breeze. If it seems weak, it’s most likely turning clockwise; you’ll want to reverse the direction for the summer months. If you think your fan may be spinning the wrong way, turn it off before flipping the switch to change its rotation.

If your ceiling fan is still not circulating air thoroughly, it might be time for a new fan. To help optimize airflow, choose the right ceiling fan that is the appropriate size and has the right amount of strength and blade span for the space.

Thinking about coverage?

Sounds like a plan. Find the warranty that fits you best.

Which direction should your fan spin in winter?

Most ceiling fans are designed for year-round use and using them properly can help cut energy costs no matter the season. The correct fan direction for winter is a clockwise rotation. It may seem counterintuitive, but using your ceiling fan on a chilly day may actually help your space stay warm.

By setting the direction of the ceiling fan in winter to spin clockwise at a low speed, you’re circulating heat throughout the room when there’s a chill in the air. The fan will draw the cooler air upward to the ceiling, where it will mix with warmer air. It will then push the air out toward the walls so you don’t feel it directly.

Which way should your ceiling fan turn and when?

In general, turn a fan counterclockwise to blow air straight down, and change it clockwise to draw the air up and circulate it around the room. When the seasons change, so should the direction of your ceiling fans.

Here are some scenarios that will help you decide what your ceiling fan direction should be for the best airflow no matter the time of year:

When sleeping: A clockwise vs. counterclockwise fan depends on how you like to sleep. If you want air blowing directly on you to stay cool throughout the night, your fan should turn counterclockwise. For an indirect breeze, rotate it clockwise and at high speed. Remember that the best winter ceiling fan direction is a clockwise rotation.
When dining: If you want to avoid your food getting cold quickly and paper napkins flying everywhere, turn your dining room ceiling fan clockwise. This helps gently circulate the air around the room without delivering gusts of wind.
While watching TV: In bigger spaces, like your living room, you may not be sitting directly under your ceiling fan. In cases like this, setting your fan to turn clockwise will help circulate the air throughout the entire room.
To air out a room: If there is a foul smell inside the house or smoke in the kitchen after cooking, set your fan directions to run clockwise at a medium speed. This will draw the air up and out toward the walls. Open the doors and windows to invite fresh air into your home and eliminate the odor or smoke. For dispelling steam or odors in the bathroom, learn how to do a DIY bathroom fan installation.

Are ceiling fans covered by a home warranty?

Yes! Ceiling fans are covered by a home warranty from American Home Shield®. All of our home warranty plans include a ceiling fan warranty, which covers all parts and components of your fans when they malfunction due to wear and tear, subject to the limitations and exclusions of your contract. Protect your budget with an AHS home warranty. Look at our pricing and plans to choose the best plan for your household.