Believe it or not, when used appropriately, a ceiling fan is one of the most versatile features in a home. Homeowners often associate these features with summer months, serving as an understudy to an air conditioning unit.

With spring approaching, important adjustments should be made to better utilize fans – and ensure comfort.

Making these can also help save money on a monthly energy bill.

Most homes have ceiling fans in high traffic rooms, such as the living room and bedrooms.

Aside from circulating air, ceiling fans can provide savings in any season – if spinning the right way.

During recent winter months, fans should have been set in a clockwise rotation. With this setting, warm air trapped near the ceiling can be circulated through the entire room, making it feel warmer. This allows homeowners to lower thermostat settings, cutting energy use and eliminating the potential need for hazardous space heaters.

Looking ahead to spring and summer, homeowners should adjust ceiling fans to a counterclockwise rotation. Changing the fan to this direction helps create artificial breeze making the room feel cooler. This is especially useful in rooms where there is frequent traffic. Incorporating this cooling tactic can decrease use of an AC unit or allow for a higher thermostat setting.

Making the transition is simple. At the base of most fans is a small switch denoting counterclockwise and clockwise rotation. With the fan off, look to flip the switch to the proper direction for the season. If using a ladder to complete this, make sure someone else is present and take adequate safety measures. Once adjusted, look up at the fan from the ground and ensure it is moving in the desired direction.