
During the high temperatures, operating your air conditioning can be your biggest monthly utility expense. So, it’s normal that you’re seeking ways to consume less energy. That may include using an energy-efficient AC setting or even upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-rated unit with air conditioner installation.
Modifying your air conditioning’s fan setting is a second way you can conserve money.
Your air conditioner uses a fan to deliver the chilled air it produces. You manage this fan at your thermostat by setting it to “auto,” which indicates the fan will only work when the air conditioner is cooling. Or you can switch it to “on,” which means it will be on all the time.
Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Fredericksburg? Not always. Usually, using your air conditioner’s fan all day is going to make your energy bill slightly higher.
But it also offers a few perks (and downsides) when it comes to your home’s comfort. Here’s why.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”
Having your air conditioner’s fan run continuously can better stabilize your family’s comfort. This is great if you live in a two-story house, since rooms upstairs can be warmer. It’s also ideal if you have problems with inconsistent cooling on account of hot and cold areas.
It’s also advantageous if one of your loved ones has been diagnosed with allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses. That’s due to the fact the air is continuously being dispersed and filtered. On the flip side, you may have to switch your air filters more frequently.
Having the fan on all day can also make your energy bills more expensive. It could also make the fan wear out prematurely and need air conditioning repair.
Your home may also appear muggier. Air conditioning helps control humidity by drawing water from the air. But if the fan is constantly running, it’s harder for moisture to drain from the condenser externally.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”
This is the most energy-efficient setting, as the fan will only go when your air conditioner does. It’s great if your residence always seems comfy, no matter what area you’re in.
There are a few disadvantages to using the auto setting. You might experience hot and cold spots in your residence and reduced air quality. This is due to the fact air isn’t constantly flowing or being continuously purified.
That said, you’ll use a lower amount of energy and won’t need to replace your air filter as frequently. Both are savings that can tally up over the year, so you’ll have to consider what’s right for your household.
If you’re running into home comfort difficulties during warm weather, Childress Heating & AC can help. We offer a substantial range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your residence comfortable while also helping you save more on electrical costs. Many are also compatible with the latest smart home technology, giving you the ability to monitor and change temp settings while you’re gone.
To discover more about how we can make your home more pleasant, contact us at 540-675-4306 now.