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

July 16, 2020

During the high temperatures, running your air conditioning can be your biggest monthly electricity charge. So, it’s normal that you’re seeking methods to consume less energy. That can include finding an energy-efficient AC setting or even stepping up to an ENERGY STAR®-rated system with air conditioner installation.

Adjusting your air conditioning’s fan setting is another way you can spend less money.

Your air conditioner works with a fan to dispatch the cold air it makes. You manage this fan at your thermostat by changing it to “auto,” which means the fan will only be on when the air conditioner is cooling. Or you can set it to “on,” which indicates it will be on continuously.

Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Chadron? Not always. Generally, operating your air conditioner’s fan constantly is going to drive up your energy bill slightly.

But it also offers a few perks (and disadvantages) 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 great if you live in a two-story home, since spaces upstairs can be more hot. It’s also great if you have issues with unbalanced cooling on account of hot and cold spots.

It’s also good if one of your family members has allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses. That’s since the air is continuously being circulated and filtered. On the flip side, you may have to replace your air filters more often.

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

Your home may also feel more humid. Air conditioning helps balance humidity by drawing moisture from the air. But if the fan is constantly running, it’s more difficult for moisture to drip 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 great if your home always appears the right temperature, whichever area you’re in.

There are a few downsides to using the auto setting. You may have hot and cold spots in your residence and lower air quality. This is due to the fact air isn’t continuously flowing or being repeatedly filtrated.

That said, you’ll require 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 consider what’s ideal for your home.

If you’re running into home comfort issues during the summer, MPC Heating & Cooling can help. We offer a large range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your house more pleasant while also helping you save more on electricity costs. Many can be partnered with the latest smart home technology, giving you the ability to oversee and regulate temperature settings while away.

To learn more about how we can make your family more comfy, contact us at 308-832-4321 now.