Ceiling Fans vs. Air Conditioner

Many of us are looking for a way to cut costs and one cost that is variable is what we spend on energy. Although we are always going to spend something on our monthly energy bill, we may be able to reduce it, if we use the appliances in our home wisely. What may come as a surprise to you is the fact that 25% of your energy during the hot weather months is going to be due to your air conditioner. Many people have considered the possibility of using ceiling fans to reduce their energy costs. Is it possible to do so?

First of all, it's important for you to understand that when you do a direct comparison between ceiling fans and air conditioners, there is going to be a significant difference in how much you spend. A typical ceiling fan cost about $10 per month to operate, if you operate it continuously. On the other hand, air-conditioning may cost 10 times that much or more, depending upon the size of your home and the outside air temperature. How can you take advantage of the cost difference between these two items?

One of the benefits of using the ceiling fan is the fact that it can cool your skin. It is important to note, you need to have the ceiling fan set up properly so that you will gain the most benefit. On most ceiling fans, there is a switch which will reverse the direction that the blades are turning. During the hotter months, the air should be pushing down into the center of the room, directly below the ceiling fan. This will help to give you the cooling effect of the air blowing over you. During the winter months, on the other hand, the air should be blowing up from the ceiling fan, which will push air around and down into the room by the walls. In either case, it can save you quite a bit of money.

Another consideration is the fact that you are only going to get the benefit of the ceiling fan when you're actually in the room. Many of us tend to turn the fan on and never turn it off again. Not only is it going to use energy needlessly when it is running without somebody in the room, it may actually be a considerable drain on your wallet. The motor in the ceiling fan is going to put off a certain amount of heat, which can warm the room and cause your air conditioner to run longer. It is always beneficial when you run the ceiling fan while you are in the room but turn it off when you leave.

When you use ceiling fans, it certainly can be an advantage to you. Although you are likely to still want to air condition the home to keep it at a comfortable temperature, you can keep the temperature higher when you use ceiling fans properly. Just make sure that you are smart in the way that you use them, so you can enjoy the financial savings to the greatest extent possible.