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

July 16, 2020

During the summer, operating your air conditioning can be your biggest monthly electrical cost. So, it’s given that you’re looking for approaches to use less energy. That might include finding an energy-efficient AC setting or even upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-rated system with air conditioner installation.

Changing your air conditioning’s fan setting is a second way you can conserve money.

Your air conditioner uses a fan to distribute the cool air it creates. You control this fan at your thermostat by switching it to “auto,” which indicates the fan will only be on when the air conditioner is going. Or you can adjust it to “on,” which means it will be on constantly.

Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Lake Worth? This isn’t always the case. Usually, operating your air conditioner’s fan constantly is going to make your energy bill slightly higher.

But it also offers a few advantages (and downsides) as far as your residence’s comfort. Here’s why.

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”

Having your air conditioner’s fan go all day can better equalize your family’s comfort. This is great if you have a two-story house, since areas upstairs can be warmer. It’s also great if you struggle with unbalanced cooling due to hot and cold spots.

It’s also beneficial if one of your family members suffers from allergies, asthma or other respiratory symptoms. That’s because the air is constantly being circulated and filtrated. However, you may have to install new air filters more frequently.

Having the fan on constantly can also make your energy bills more expensive. It could also cause the fan to wear out more quickly and need air conditioning repair.

Your home may also feel muggier. Air conditioning helps control humidity by drawing wetness from the air. But if the fan is continually on, it’s harder for moisture to drip from the condenser externally.

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”

This is the highest energy-efficient setting, because the fan will only work when your air conditioner does. It’s great if your house always feels comfy, regardless of which spot you’re in.

There are a few disadvantages to using the auto setting. You might experience hot and cold locations in your home and reduced air quality. This is because air isn’t continuously being distributed or being continuously purified.

On the other hand, you’ll require a lower amount of energy and won’t need to get a new air filter as regularly. Both are savings that can build up throughout the year, so you’ll have to think over what’s right for your needs.

If you’re running into home comfort problems during the summer, Smyth Air Conditioning Inc can support you. We have a wide range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your residence more pleasant while also helping you save more on energy costs. Many can be partnered with the latest smart home technology, allowing you to monitor and adjust home comfort settings while on the go.

To discover more about how we can make your residence more pleasant, contact us at 561-533-6066 today.