HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READERS: In which direction should the ceiling fan rotate to make your room comfortable, and to lower your energy bill to save money? Here’s the scoop:

In wintertime, the ceiling fan should rotate clockwise as you look up at it. This pushes down warm air that’s up at the ceiling. Circulating warm air makes you feel warmer, so you can set the thermostat a bit lower.

When summer rolls around, the ceiling fan should rotate counterclockwise as you look up at it. This will create a light breeze that you should feel. This won’t lower the temperature in the room, but it will feel cooler.

Look for a switch on the motor, right below the blades. This will change the direction.

If you have a cathedral or vaulted ceiling, changing the direction of the fan does not affect the temperature of the room, but will still move warm or cold air and help some.

This topic usually generates discussion. Before writing, check your manual or online.

DEAR HELOISE: During the colder winter months, we love to go to indoor flea markets. There’s so much to see, and bargains galore! Here are some hints:

Cash is king. Some places take checks and credit cards, but love cash.

You can wheel and deal and negotiate, but be willing to buy. Merchants will be more likely to work with you if you’re a serious shopper.

Fitting rooms are scarce. Most items are sold “as is.” Wear comfortable shoes.

— Betty W., Fargo, N.D.

DEAR READERS: Here’s a project for the kids: Make snow if you live in a place where it does not snow. Kids love this do-it-yourself snow.

Take one box of baking soda and one full can of shaving cream, and, using your hands, mix together. It will feel like fresh, powdery snow, and you can add food coloring and glitter, but this is for outside only!

DEAR HELOISE: I keep some stainless-steel spoons in the freezer. When I’ve brewed a piping-hot cup of coffee or tea, stirring with the frozen spoon can cool the drink down quickly.

— JoAnn P. in New York

DEAR HELOISE: The shower cap at the hotel is great for packing up things when it’s time to go home: a wet toothbrush, swimsuit, small toilet items, etc. The elastic band holds things snugly!

— Becky M. in Utah

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio,Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email Heloise@Heloise.com