Which Consumes Less Energy? AC Fan On or in Auto?

July 16, 2020

During the hot weather, using your air conditioning can be your largest monthly electricity expense. So, it’s given that you’re looking for ways to consume less energy. That could entail trying an energy-efficient AC setting or even upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-rated unit with air conditioner installation.

Switching your air conditioning’s fan setting is an additional way you can conserve money.

Your air conditioner works with a fan to distribute the chilled air it creates. You manage this fan at your thermostat by switching it to “auto,” which means the fan will only work when the air conditioner is operating. Or you can adjust it to “on,” which means it will work continuously.

Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Delray Beach? This isn’t always the case. Generally, running your air conditioner’s fan all the time is going to drive up your energy bill slightly.

But it also offers a few advantages (and drawbacks) in regard to your home’s comfort. Here’s why.

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”

Having your air conditioner’s fan run all the time can better equalize your home’s comfort. This is ideal if you live in a two-story house, since rooms upstairs can be hotter. It’s also good if you have issues with unbalanced cooling due to hot and cold areas.

It’s also advantageous if someone in your household has allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses. That’s due to the fact the air is consistently being dispersed and purified. On the flip side, you may have to change your air filters more often.

Having the fan on all the time can also increase your energy bills. It could also result in the fan wearing out more quickly and need air conditioning repair.

Your residence may also feel muggier. Air conditioning helps control humidity by clearing wetness from the air. But if the fan is always running, it’s more difficult for moisture to drip from the condenser externally.

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”

This is the highest energy-efficient setting, as the fan will only run when your air conditioner does. It’s great if your house always appears comfy, no matter what area you’re in.

There are a few downsides to using the auto setting. You might run into hot and cold spots in your house and decreased air quality. This is due to the fact air isn’t always being distributed or being continuously filtrated.

On the other hand, you’ll use reduced energy and won’t have to switch you air filter as frequently. Both are savings that can build up during the year, so you’ll have to think about what’s right for your home.

If you’re experiencing home comfort issues during hot weather, Kilbourne Heating & AC can assist you. We have a large range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your house more pleasant while also helping you save more on electricity bills. Many also work with the latest smart home technology, giving you the opportunity to check and change home comfort settings while on the go.

To hear more about how we can make your family more pleasant, contact us at 561-287-7071 now.