- #1
DaveC426913
Gold Member
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(I think I've actually asked this before...)
I have a standard 3 speed reversbile ceiling fan. The reverse switch of course changes it from blowing air up to blowing air down.
What is the benefit of reversing the fan?
Most people seem to think that it constitutes a difference between drawing air into the room and blowing air out of the room. (without thinking it through about equalization of air pressure and the fact that you can't have and 'in' without also having an 'out'.)
Personally, I believe that the air flow is direction-agnostic. The flow - either way - forms a toroid, rotating either down or up around the outer edge, but otherwise having no in-the-room or out-of-room effect.
The only functional difference between 'up' and 'down' is whether the occupants feel a breeze. You'd use the 'down' on a hot day when a breeze would be nice, and you'd use the 'up' anytime you want to circulate the air without blowing on people, such as in the winter.
Am I right?
All opinions welcome, but I would be interested in the input of someone who can speak with authority about it.
![Blushing :blushing: :blushing:](https://www.physicsforums.com/styles/physicsforums/xenforo/smilies/oldschool/blushing.gif)
I have a standard 3 speed reversbile ceiling fan. The reverse switch of course changes it from blowing air up to blowing air down.
What is the benefit of reversing the fan?
Most people seem to think that it constitutes a difference between drawing air into the room and blowing air out of the room. (without thinking it through about equalization of air pressure and the fact that you can't have and 'in' without also having an 'out'.)
Personally, I believe that the air flow is direction-agnostic. The flow - either way - forms a toroid, rotating either down or up around the outer edge, but otherwise having no in-the-room or out-of-room effect.
The only functional difference between 'up' and 'down' is whether the occupants feel a breeze. You'd use the 'down' on a hot day when a breeze would be nice, and you'd use the 'up' anytime you want to circulate the air without blowing on people, such as in the winter.
Am I right?
All opinions welcome, but I would be interested in the input of someone who can speak with authority about it.