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

July 16, 2020

During the high temperatures, running your air conditioning can be your biggest monthly utility cost. So, it’s given that you’re seeking ways to consume less energy. That can involve finding an energy-efficient AC setting or even making the switch to an ENERGY STAR®-rated model during air conditioner installation.

Modifying your air conditioning’s fan setting is a second way you can save money.

Your air conditioner uses a fan to deliver the chilled air it creates. You adjust this fan at your thermostat by setting it to “auto,” which signifies the fan will only be on when the air conditioner is working. Or you can set it to “on,” which indicates it will be on constantly.

Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Bishop? Not necessarily. Typically, operating your air conditioner’s fan all the time is going to make your energy bill slightly higher.

But it also provides a few pluses (and disadvantages) in regard to your home’s comfort. Here’s why.

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”

Having your air conditioner’s fan go all day can better balance your home’s comfort. This is good if you have a two-story home, since areas upstairs can be hotter. It’s also ideal if you have difficulties with uneven cooling because of hot and cold spaces.

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

Having the fan on all the time can also drive up your energy bills. It could also cause the fan to wear out sooner and need air conditioning repair.

Your residence may also seem more humid. Air conditioning helps control humidity by drawing wetness from the air. But if the fan is constantly going, it’s challenging for moisture to drain from the condenser externally.

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”

This is the most energy-efficient setting, since the fan will only operate when your air conditioner does. It’s ideal if your residence always appears the right temperature, no matter what area you’re in.

There are a few drawbacks to using the auto setting. You may experience hot and cold locations in your home and decreased air quality. This is due to the fact air isn’t constantly being distributed or being constantly filtered.

On the flip side, you’ll need a lower amount of energy and won’t have to replace your air filter as regularly. Both are savings that can tally up throughout the year, so you’ll have to think about what’s right for your needs.

If you’re having home comfort problems during the summer, Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning can support you. We sell a substantial range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your house more pleasant while also helping you save more on energy expenses. Many can be partnered with the latest smart home technology, allowing you to oversee and adjust temp settings while on the go.

To discover more about how we can make your family more comfy, contact us at 760-784-9034 right away.