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

July 16, 2020

During the summer, using your air conditioning can be your biggest monthly electrical cost. So, it’s normal that you’re seeking methods to save. That may involve using an energy-efficient AC setting or even stepping up to an ENERGY STAR®-rated model with air conditioner installation.

Adjusting your air conditioning’s fan setting is an additional way you can save money.

Your air conditioner works with a fan to dispatch the cool air it produces. You control this fan at your thermostat by setting it to “auto,” which means the fan will only run when the air conditioner is cooling. Or you can set it to “on,” which indicates it will run constantly.

Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Front Royal? Not always. Generally, running your air conditioner’s fan all day is going to make your energy bill slightly higher.

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

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”

Having your air conditioner’s fan run continuously can better stabilize your home’s comfort. This is ideal if you own a two-story house, since spaces upstairs can be hotter. It’s also good if you have difficulties with uneven cooling due to hot and cold spots.

It’s also great if one of your loved ones suffers from allergies, asthma or other respiratory symptoms. That’s since the air is constantly being distributed and purified. On the flip side, you may have to switch your air filters more regularly.

Having the fan on constantly can also increase your energy bills. It could also make the fan wear out prematurely and need air conditioning repair.

Your residence may also feel more humid. Air conditioning helps balance humidity by drawing water from the air. But if the fan is continually running, it’s challenging for moisture to flow from the condenser outside.

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”

This is the highest energy-efficient setting, as the fan will only go when your air conditioner does. It’s good if your home always appears comfortable, regardless of which spot you’re in.

There are a few drawbacks to using the auto setting. You may have hot and cold locations in your residence and decreased air quality. This is because air isn’t continuously flowing or being continuously purified.

That said, you’ll require a lower amount of energy and won’t need to replace your air filter as often. Both are savings that can tally up over the year, so you’ll have to consider what’s right for your home.

If you’re having home comfort issues during hot weather, Dave's Diversified Services can assist you. We have a wide range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your residence comfier while also helping you save more on electricity expenses. Many also work with the latest smart home technology, allowing you to oversee and adjust home comfort settings while away.

To hear more about how we can make your loved ones more pleasant, contact us at 540-636-3396 right away.