During the summer, operating your air conditioning can be your largest monthly utility expense. So, it’s only natural that you’re checking for approaches to save. That might include trying an energy-efficient AC setting or even making the switch to an ENERGY STAR®-rated system through air conditioner installation.
Modifying your air conditioning’s fan setting is a second way you can spend less money.
Your air conditioner uses a fan to dispatch the cold air it creates. You adjust this fan at your thermostat by switching it to “auto,” which indicates the fan will only work when the air conditioner is cooling. Or you can adjust it to “on,” which means it will work all the time.
Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Justin? This isn’t always the case. Generally, operating your air conditioner’s fan all day is going to drive up your energy bill slightly.
But it also offers a few pluses (and disadvantages) when it comes to your family’s comfort. Here’s why.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”
Having your air conditioner’s fan go all day can better stabilize your home’s comfort. This is ideal if you live in a two-story home, since rooms upstairs can be hotter. It’s also good if you struggle with unbalanced cooling because of hot and cold spots.
It’s also good if someone in your household has allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses. That’s because the air is consistently being circulated and filtered. On the other hand, you may have to change your air filters more regularly.
Having the fan on all day can also drive up your energy bills. It could also result in the fan wearing out faster and need air conditioning repair.
Your home may also feel muggier. Air conditioning helps balance humidity by removing wetness from the air. But if the fan is always running, it’s more difficult for moisture to drain from the condenser externally.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”
This is the highest energy-efficient setting, since the fan will only work when your air conditioner does. It’s great if your home always appears the right temperature, no matter what area you’re in.
There are a few downsides to using the auto setting. You could have hot and cold areas in your house and reduced air quality. This is since air isn’t constantly flowing or being repeatedly purified.
On the flip side, you’ll consume less energy and won’t have to replace your air filter as regularly. Both are savings that can add up during the year, so you’ll have to think about what’s right for your family.
If you’re running into home comfort issues during warm weather, Pepper AC & Htg Inc can support you. We install a substantial range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your home more pleasant while also helping you save more on electrical expenses. Many can be partnered with the latest smart home technology, allowing you to check and change home comfort settings while away.
To learn more about how we can make your home more pleasant, contact us at 940-202-1184 now.