Apart from the decorative function in the home, the ceiling fan can also help support heating and air conditioning systems on less energy than a 100-watt light bulb. By setting the fan blades to run clockwise or upward in the winter, the fan draws the air up through the blades across the ceiling and back down the walls. Setting the blades down or counter-clockwise in the summer, will cause a "wind chill" effect that will circulate the air around the room. Use a fan in just about every room to eliminate odors, save energy and money, even repel insects.
What to look for in a fan: quality cast iron motor housings, pull chain switches, reversible motors and precision-pitched blades that maximize movement of air while minimizing noise. Standard mounting kits are available for ceilings as low as 8 feet. Ceiling-hugger models can be used on 7 - 6-foot ceilings, but they pose more of a safety risk.
When shopping for a ceiling fan here's how to determine what size you will need:
- 42-In. ceiling fan is ideal for a room with 144 sq. ft. (approx. 12 x 12 ft.).
- 44-In. ceiling fan is ideal for a room with 225 sq. ft. (approx. 15 x 15 ft.).
- 52-In. ceiling fan is ideal for a room with 400 sq. ft. (approx. 20 x 20 ft.).
- If your room is larger than 20 x 20 ft., think about getting two fans.