Many homeowners use ceilings fans during the summer, believing it will lower their home’s cooling costs.
With the ceiling fan running, the surrounding space may feel cooler. Unfortunately, though, ceiling fans typically have little or no impact on cooling costs.
They can make the surrounding space feel cooler, but they won’t alleviate the burden placed on your AC system.
The Truth About Ceiling Fans
Contrary to common belief, ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature of the surrounding space.
If you run a ceiling fan with the AC system turned off, the temperature of the respective room won’t drop. Rather, the temperature will either stay the same, or it may even increase.
Ceiling fans only create the perception of a cooler space; they don’t actually lower the temperature.
When running, a ceiling fan will blow the air downwards and onto your body. As the air moves across your skin, it causes moisture to evaporate. This phenomenon makes the space feel cooler, even though the temperature hasn’t decreased.
Why Running Ceiling Fans Won’t Save You Money on Cooling Costs
Since ceiling fans don’t affect the temperature of the space in which they are used, running them will have little or no impact on your home’s cooling costs.
The space may feel slightly cooler, but you’ll still need to use the AC system to counter the summer’s otherwise hot temperatures.
To lower your home’s cooling costs, you should focus on improving HVAC efficiency.
This means changing the air filter and plugging or fixing thermal leaks. You can still run ceiling fans during the winter, but don’t expect them to have a meaningful impact on your home’s heating costs either.
Change the Direction of Your Ceiling Fans
If you’re planning to use ceiling fans in your home, consider changing the direction according to the season.
During the summer, for instance, you should adjust your ceiling fans so that they blow air downwards, thereby projecting the air onto your body. During the winter, on the other hand, you should adjust your ceiling fans so that they blow air upwards.
Using a ceiling fan may create the impression of a cooler home, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will lower your home’s cooling costs.
The room or space may feel slightly cooler due to the way in which moving air evaporates moisture off your skin. Nonetheless, you’ll still need to use your home’s AC system to create a cool and comfortable living environment.
If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.
1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.
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