We tend to think of a wind chill factor as being a winter event. However, using ceiling fans creates a wind chill factor as well. Ceiling fans allow you to keep your A/C thermostat set about four degrees cooler than normal, with an an identical cooling effect.Ceiling fans can do more than just help your family keep cool in the summertime; they can also help conserve energy and reduce your utility bill. You can count on saving about one percent of your total energy costs for every degree you alter your thermostat setting, assuming you also use an eight-hour set-back period during working/sleeping hours each day.To maximize the cooling effect of ceiling fans and air conditioners, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Install fans properly. Ceiling fans are only beneficial when installed on a ceiling that is at least eight feet high. Make sure the fan is mounted at least 12 inches from the ceiling for adequate airflow. If you are not able to accomplish this in your home, you are better off buying a table or floor fan for proper air circulation.
Turn the fans off when you aren't in the room. Fans do not reduce the air temperature in a room. They create a draft, which moves the air along your skin, providing a cooling effect. For that reason, fans should always be turned off if people have left the room.
Make sure the fan size is adequate for the room/space. Larger fan blades move more air; 36-44-inch blades accommodate rooms that are four to six feet in diameter. Fan blades measuring 52 inches can be effective up to about 18 feet. Depending on the size of your space, you might consider two fans for optimal cooling.
Don't forget to look for the Energy Star label. Fans bearing the Energy Star label are up to 20 percent more energy efficient than their standard counterparts.
For more tips to stay cool on a hot Oklahoma summer day, Contact Air Assurance. We've been keeping homeowner's cool since 1985.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!