During the high temperatures, using your air conditioning can be your highest monthly electricity expense. So, it’s only natural that you’re looking for methods to consume less energy. That might involve using an energy-efficient AC setting or even upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-rated system with air conditioner installation.
Changing your air conditioning’s fan setting is an additional way you can conserve money.
Your air conditioner works with a fan to dispatch the cool air it makes. You adjust this fan at your thermostat by switching it to “auto,” which signifies the fan will only be on when the air conditioner is going. Or you can switch it to “on,” which signifies it will work constantly.
Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Greater Richmond? Not always. Usually, using your air conditioner’s fan constantly is going to drive up your energy bill slightly.
But it also has a few pluses (and disadvantages) as far as 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 house’s comfort. This is ideal if you own a two-story house, since rooms upstairs can be more hot. It’s also ideal if you have difficulties with uneven cooling on account of hot and cold rooms.
It’s also beneficial if someone in your household has been diagnosed with allergies, asthma or other respiratory symptoms. That’s due to the fact the air is consistently being dispersed 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 result in the fan wearing out sooner and need air conditioning repair.
Your home may also appear more humid. Air conditioning helps control humidity by extracting moisture from the air. But if the fan is always running, it’s more difficult for moisture to flow from the condenser externally.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”
This is the best energy-efficient setting, since the fan will only operate when your air conditioner does. It’s great if your home always feels pleasant, regardless of which room you’re in.
There are a few downsides to using the auto setting. You might experience hot and cold spots in your residence and lower air quality. This is since air isn’t constantly flowing or being repeatedly purified.
On the flip side, you’ll require reduced energy and won’t be required to switch you air filter as frequently. Both are savings that can tally up during the year, so you’ll have to consider what’s ideal for your needs.
If you’re running into home comfort problems during the summer, Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can support you. We install a wide range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your home more pleasant while also helping you save more on electricity bills. Many can be partnered with the latest smart home technology, allowing you to check and change temp settings while you’re gone.
To hear more about how we can make your home more comfy, contact us at 804-302-6657 today.