During the high temperatures, using your air conditioning can be your highest monthly electrical cost. So, it’s normal that you’re seeking ways to use less energy. That may include trying an energy-efficient AC setting or even stepping up to an ENERGY STAR®-rated model with air conditioner installation. Modifying your air conditioning’s fan setting is an additional way you can spend less money. Your air conditioner works with a fan to deliver the chilled air it creates. You control this fan at your thermostat by changing it to “auto,” which indicates the fan will only run when the air conditioner is operating. Or you can switch it to “on,” which indicates it will operate continuously. Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Pocatello? Not always. Generally, using your air conditioner’s fan all day is going to make your energy bill slightly higher. But it also provides a few perks (and downsides) when it comes to your family’s comfort. Here’s why.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”
Having your air conditioner’s fan operate continuously can better balance your family’s comfort. This is good if you live in a two-story house, since rooms upstairs can be warmer. It’s also great if you have issues with inconsistent cooling due to hot and cold areas. It’s also great if one of your family members has allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses. That’s because the air is continuously being circulated and purified. On the flip side, you may have to put in new air filters more often. Having the fan on all the time can also make your energy bills more expensive. It could also make the fan wear out more quickly and need air conditioning repair. Your residence may also feel more moist. Air conditioning helps balance humidity by clearing water from the air. But if the fan is continually 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 residence always seems comfy, regardless of which area you’re in. There are a few downsides to using the auto setting. You could experience hot and cold areas in your residence and reduced air quality. This is because air isn’t continuously moving or being continuously filtered. On the other hand, you’ll need reduced energy and won’t need to get a new air filter as often. Both are savings that can tally up during the year, so you’ll have to think over what’s best for your needs. If you’re having home comfort issues during warm weather, Vogts Heating & Air can support you. We offer a large range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your residence comfortable while also helping you save more on electricity bills. Many can be partnered with the latest smart home technology, allowing you to oversee and regulate temperature settings while you’re gone. To learn more about how we can make your residence more pleasant, contact us at 208-621-0129 today.