During the hot weather, operating your air conditioning can be your largest monthly electricity cost. So, it’s only natural that you’re seeking ways to consume less energy. That might entail using an energy-efficient AC setting or even upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-rated unit during air conditioner installation.

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

Your air conditioner uses a fan to dispatch the cold air it produces. You adjust this fan at your thermostat by switching it to “auto,” which indicates the fan will only run when the air conditioner is going. Or you can set it to “on,” which signifies it will be on continuously.

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

But it also provides a few pluses (and disadvantages) in relation to your residence’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 house’s comfort. This is great if you have a two-story house, since rooms upstairs can be more hot. It’s also great if you have problems with unbalanced cooling due to hot and cold spots.

It’s also beneficial if someone in your household suffers from allergies, asthma or other respiratory issues. That’s since the air is continuously being dispersed and purified. On the flip side, you may have to install new 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 faster and need air conditioning repair.

Your house may also seem more humid. Air conditioning helps manage humidity by extracting wetness from the air. But if the fan is continually going, it’s more difficult for moisture to flow from the condenser outdoors.

Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”

This is the best energy-efficient setting, since the fan will only go when your air conditioner does. It’s good if your home always appears comfy, whichever room you’re in.

There are a few downsides to using the auto setting. You may run into hot and cold spots in your house and decreased air quality. This is since air isn’t constantly flowing or being repeatedly filtrated.

On the flip side, you’ll consume a lower amount of energy and won’t have to switch your air filter as regularly. Both are savings that can build up over the year, so you’ll have to think over what’s right for your family.

If you’re having home comfort difficulties during warm weather, Vogts Heating & Air can support you. We have a large range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your residence comfier while also helping you save more on electrical bills. Many can be partnered with the latest smart home technology, allowing you to monitor and change temperature settings while on the go.

To find out more about how we can make your house more comfy, contact us at 208-621-0129 today.