As temperatures climb in Texas, most homeowners start running their air conditioning longer and seeing their energy bills climb right along with it. But here’s a secret not everyone knows properly using ceiling fans alongside your AC can make a big difference in both comfort and costs.
At Top Notch Electrician, we help homeowners create smarter, more energy-efficient cooling setups. Let’s break down how you can use ceiling fans strategically to stay cooler while saving money this summer.
How Ceiling Fans Really Work
Ceiling fans don’t cool the air they move the air. By circulating air across your skin, fans help speed up the natural evaporation of sweat, making you feel cooler even if the temperature hasn’t changed. Because of this, you can raise your thermostat by 4–5 degrees without sacrificing comfort when a ceiling fan is running. That’s real energy savings over the course of a long, hot summer.
When to Use Ceiling Fans with AC
Here’s the smart way to use them together:
- Set your thermostat a few degrees higher than you normally would.
- Turn ceiling fans on in occupied rooms only (fans cool people, not spaces).
- Turn fans off when leaving the room to avoid wasting electricity.
- Make sure your ceiling fan is set to spin counterclockwise in summer, pushing cool air downward.
Pro Tip: On hot days, using fans to circulate air can help your air conditioner work less hard, extending its lifespan.
Energy Savings You Can Expect
Using a ceiling fan properly can cut your cooling costs by as much as 10–15% over the course of the summer. If you combine fans with other energy-saving tips like using smart thermostats and sealing air leaks, the savings add up even faster.
Choosing the Right Ceiling Fans
Not all ceiling fans are created equal. Here’s what you need to look for:
- ENERGY STAR® rated fans use up to 60% less energy than standard fans.
- Larger fans (with longer blade spans) are better for big rooms.
- Outdoor-rated fans are a must for patios, porches, or outdoor kitchens.
- Fans with multiple speed settings give you more control over comfort.
Need help choosing the right size and type? Our team at Top Notch can help you pick fans that are not only efficient but stylish and properly rated for the location you have in mind.
Where Ceiling Fans Make a Big Impact
Some of the best places to install or upgrade ceiling fans include:
✔ Bedrooms
✔ Living rooms
✔ Home offices
✔ Covered patios and outdoor kitchens
✔ Game rooms or upstairs lofts (where heat rises)
Bonus: In outdoor spaces, fans also help keep bugs away by creating airflow that mosquitoes hate.
Professional Installation Matters: Ceiling fans need to be properly mounted to ceiling fan-rated electrical boxes, not just any standard light fixture box. A poor install can lead to wobbling fans or worse, fans that fall. When you work with Top Notch Electrician, we make sure your fans are:
- Securely installed
- Wired safely and up to code
- Correctly oriented for summer or winter use
- Balanced for smooth, quiet operation
Whether you’re replacing an old fan or adding brand-new ones, we’ll get it done safely and efficiently.
Stay Cool and Save Smart This Summer
Texas summers can be brutal, but with a smart mix of ceiling fans and air conditioning, you can stay comfortable without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to install new ceiling fans, upgrade old ones, or need help with any electrical work before summer kicks into high gear, Top Notch Electrician is here to help.
Need Ceiling Fans Installed? Let’s Get It Done Right.
Call [972 379 8646] or visit [www.topnotchelectrician.com] to schedule your ceiling fan installation or consultation today. Let’s keep your home cool, efficient, and ready for summer!