During the hot weather, using your air conditioning can be your biggest monthly utility expense. So, it’s only natural that you’re looking for ways to consume less energy. That may include finding an energy-efficient AC setting or even making the switch to an ENERGY STAR®-rated model with air conditioner installation.
Modifying your air conditioning’s fan setting is an additional way you can save money.
Your air conditioner relies on a fan to dispatch the cool air it makes. You control this fan at your thermostat by setting it to “auto,” which signifies the fan will only be on when the air conditioner is cooling. Or you can adjust it to “on,” which indicates it will run all the time.
Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Rockford? Not always. Generally, using your air conditioner’s fan all day is going to drive up your energy bill slightly.
But it also offers a few perks (and downsides) as far as your home’s comfort. Here’s why.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”
Having your air conditioner’s fan go all the time can better equalize your house’s comfort. This is great if you live in a two-story house, since spaces upstairs can be warmer. It’s also good if you struggle with inconsistent cooling because of hot and cold spaces.
It’s also good if one of your loved ones deals with allergies, asthma or other respiratory issues. That’s due to the fact the air is consistently being circulated and filtrated. On the flip side, you may have to replace your air filters more often.
Having the fan on all the time can also drive up your energy bills. It could also make the fan wear out faster and need air conditioning repair.
Your residence may also seem more moist. Air conditioning helps balance humidity by extracting wetness from the air. But if the fan is continually going, it’s harder for moisture to drain from the condenser outside.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”
This is the most energy-efficient setting, because the fan will only go when your air conditioner does. It’s good if your house always seems comfortable, no matter what room you’re in.
There are a few disadvantages to using the auto setting. You might experience hot and cold areas in your residence and lower air quality. This is due to the fact air isn’t continuously moving or being repeatedly filtrated.
On the other hand, you’ll need a lower amount of energy and won’t have to switch you air filter as regularly. Both are savings that can build up over the year, so you’ll have to think over what’s best for your home.
If you’re experiencing home comfort issues during the summer, Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling, Inc can help. We have a wide range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your house more pleasant while also helping you save more on electricity expenses. Many can be partnered with the latest smart home technology, giving you the ability to check and adjust temperature settings while away.
To learn more about how we can make your house more comfortable, contact us at (815)914-6197 now.