In summer, a ceiling fan should turn counterclockwise. This direction pushes air downward, creating a cool breeze that helps evaporate moisture on the skin and makes the room feel cooler. This effect allows you to raise the thermostat setting, reducing air conditioning use and energy costs. You can check the correct direction by standing under the fan—if you feel a cool breeze, it is spinning counterclockwise. If not, look for a reverse switch on the fan motor or remote control to change its direction to counterclockwise for summer cooling.