Ceiling fans move cool air across the skin in the summer or distribute warm air in the winter.
Ceiling fans cool by producing a wind-chill effect. They blow cool air across the body. If ceiling fans are used with an air conditioner, the room temperature can be raised 4 degrees without a reduction in comfort. In some climates, ceiling fans are used instead of an air conditioning system. During the winter, the direction of the fans is reversed and warm air is evenly distributed throughout the room. Ceiling fans are decorative, available in many styles and colors and often have a light attached.
Styles
Ceiling fans have four or five blades and range in size from 29 inches to 54 inches in diameter. Ceiling fans with a diameter 44 inches or smaller are used in rooms up to 225 square feet. They provide cooling in a 4- to 6-foot diameter area. Larger fans provide cooling in a 10-foot diameter area. If a room is longer than 18 feet, more than one ceiling fan is recommended.
Mounting
Ceiling fans work best went the blades are 7 to 9 feet above the floor, at least 10 to 12 inches below the ceiling, and 18 or more inches from the wall. Ceiling fans come in standard, extended, flush and sloped mounts to accommodate the ceiling height. Extended fans are used with tall ceilings, flush fans with low ceilings, and sloped mounts with angled ceilings. If the ceiling fan is used in a damp area such as a bathroom, it should have the UL "damp" rating. For patios or front porches where the fan may come in contact with water, select a fan with a UL "wet" rating.
Energy Efficiency
Energy Star-rated ceiling fans are up to 50 percent more energy-efficient than conventional models. You can select a ceiling fan with high airflow efficiency at all three speeds. The efficiency level is listed on the Energy Star label. You can attach an Energy Star-qualified light kit to the ceiling fan.
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