 |
 |
|
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans provide an inexpensive means of circulating air in
your home. The breeze created allows you to raise your thermostat
setting – possibly as high as 85 degrees F, depending on your
preferences. That means that ceiling fans can supplement your air
conditioner or even replace it in cooler climates. To help you understand
how ceiling fans can benefit you and your home, heating and
cooling experts offer these ideas.
In addition to their cooling benefits, some ceiling fans are reversible,
meaning they can help in winter, too. In these types, blades turn
clockwise in summer to create a cooling downdraft, while in winter
they turn counterclockwise to redirect heated air that rises and
collects near the ceiling down toward the floor. These are best
suited for rooms that tend to build up heat, such as sunrooms or
rooms with a woodstove.
Equipped with light fixtures, ceiling fans can also provide an
additional overhead light source and enhance your home's décor.
Location, Location
For greater comfort, place ceiling fans:
- In all frequently used rooms.
- Over the areas most likely to be occupied – over the seating
area in a den, or above the bed in a bedroom.
- With the blades optimally seven to nine feet above the floor,
and 10 to 12 inches below the ceiling. Fans with the blades closer
than eight inches to the ceiling are 40 percent less efficient
to operate.
- With the blade tips at least 18 inches from walls.
Avoid installing ceiling fans in areas where excessive moisture
could damage the wiring or warp wooden blades.
Size Matters
Larger fans offer a wider range of airflow settings and ventilate
larger areas at lower speeds, with less noise. Plus, they consume
only slightly more power than smaller fans. For areas/rooms:
- Sized 12 feet by 12 feet or smaller – select a 36- or 42-inch fan
- Sized 12 feet by 18 feet – select a 48- or 52-inch fan
- Longer than 18 feet – use two medium-sized fans
- Central halls – larger fans
Other Selection Criteria
Factors to consider when selecting a ceiling fan include the length
of warranty, the motor housing material, number of speeds available,
blade size and material, amount of noise generated, installation
requirements, and number of fans desired.
Costs and Savings
Ceiling fans typically cost between $75 and $200, but can be more,
depending on extra features, extended warranties, etc. If you pay
for installation as well, your total cost should run around $250.
Many fans are easy to install.
Additionally, ceiling fans can help you save money:
- When operated to supplement an air conditioning system, ceiling
fans can lower cooling costs by 15-35 percent.
- When used to replace an air conditioning system, they can save
as much as 60 percent.
If you don't feel comfortable installing your own ceiling fan,
contact a professional.
|
|
|
