Winter ceiling fans should rotate clockwise (viewed from below) at a low speed to create an updraft that pushes warm air down into the living space. This helps distribute heat more evenly and can improve energy efficiency during heating. In contrast, use counterclockwise rotation in summer to produce a downdraft that cools you directly. Key points

• Winter: clockwise, low speed, updraft to destratify warm air near the ceiling.
• Summer: counterclockwise, higher or lower speed as needed, downdraft to create a breeze.

Practical tips

• If your home has vaulted or high ceilings, the clockwise setting helps move warm air downward more effectively.
• Set the fan to a low speed in winter to avoid a chilling breeze while still circulating warm air.
• Many fans have a switch on the motor housing to change direction; if your fan lacks a visible switch, consult the manual or check the remote control settings.
• Use ceiling fans in conjunction with your thermostat: turning off the fan when heating is unnecessary can save energy, while keeping it on a gentle cycle can improve comfort at a lower thermostat setting.

If you’d like, specify your ceiling height and heating approach, and a tailored recommendation (including suggested speeds and how to test the effect) can be provided.