Air always settles in layers from warm at the top to cold at the bottom. Therefore, keeping in mind that warm air rises to the top and cold air settles on the bottom, in the winters, a large amount of heated air can get collected in a big room with high ceilings, before it can even be felt. And that’s when using a ceiling fan will push the air down from the ceiling.
Fans today are made with a little switch that changes blade rotation. Clockwise rotation makes an updraft that sends the warmer air pooled near the ceiling back into the living space, cutting room heating costs by 10%. Anticlockwise on the other hand, produces that pleasant summer breeze we crave for. However, one must remember, fans just circulate the air and make it feel cooler to the occupants in the room by mildly reducing condensation in the air. A good reminder for all those who forget that the main function of the ceiling fan is to rotate air!
Further, running your fan on a low speed will force the heat accumulated at the ceiling down along the walls where it must rise again. This mild circulation of air provides a more evenly heated room; shortening the time it takes for the conventional heaters and blowers to heat the room. Increasing the speed of the fan will create an unwanted downdraft at the people below, making them uncomfortable and not any warm. Though, it can be ruled out that these recommendations depend on the height and size of the room and the activity taking place in the room.
Unlike summer usage, a ceiling fan operating in the winter can remain on, no matter what heat setting your room is on. If you're trying to even out the house with radiant heating, set the thermostat to a comfortable, acceptable energy-saving position, and leave the fan on the lowest setting.
Or simply, get to know the switch and you’ll have a fan for all seasons!
Photo by Lampplus.