During the high temperatures, operating your air conditioning can be your biggest monthly utility charge. So, it’s given that you’re looking for ways to use less energy. That might include trying an energy-efficient AC setting or even stepping up to an ENERGY STAR®-rated unit with air conditioner installation. Switching your air conditioning’s fan setting is an additional way you can save money. Your air conditioner uses a fan to dispatch the cool air it produces. You control this fan at your thermostat by setting it to “auto,” which signifies the fan will only run when the air conditioner is cooling. Or you can set it to “on,” which means it will operate continuously. Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Oxford? This isn’t always the case. Typically, running your air conditioner’s fan constantly is going to drive up your energy bill slightly. But it also offers a few perks (and drawbacks) in relation to your home’s comfort. Here’s why.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”
Having your air conditioner’s fan operate all day can better equalize your house’s comfort. This is good if you have a two-story home, since rooms upstairs can be hotter. It’s also good if you have difficulties with inconsistent cooling on account of hot and cold areas. It’s also advantageous if one of your family members has allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses. That’s since the air is consistently being distributed and filtered. However, you may have to install new air filters more often. Having the fan on all the time can also make your energy bills more expensive. It could also cause the fan to wear out faster and need air conditioning repair. Your home may also appear more humid. Air conditioning helps manage humidity by drawing wetness from the air. But if the fan is continually going, it’s more difficult for moisture to flow from the condenser outside.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”
This is the highest energy-efficient setting, since the fan will only work when your air conditioner does. It’s ideal if your home always appears pleasant, no matter what room you’re in. There are a few drawbacks to using the auto setting. You may run into hot and cold spots in your home and lower air quality. This is because air isn’t constantly being distributed or being continuously purified. On the flip side, you’ll consume reduced energy and won’t have to get a new air filter as frequently. Both are savings that can add up during the year, so you’ll have to consider what’s best for your household. If you’re having home comfort issues during hot weather, Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc can support you. We offer a substantial range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your home comfier while also helping you save more on electrical expenses. Many also work with the latest smart home technology, allowing you to monitor and change home comfort settings while you’re gone. To find out more about how we can make your home more comfortable, contact us at 662-281-1231 today.