During the high temperatures, running your air conditioning can be your highest monthly utility cost. So, it’s only natural that you’re checking for methods to use less energy. That can involve trying an energy-efficient AC setting or even upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-rated model during air conditioner installation.
Switching your air conditioning’s fan setting is an additional way you can spend less money.
Your air conditioner works with a fan to dispatch the cold air it produces. You manage this fan at your thermostat by setting it to “auto,” which means the fan will only run when the air conditioner is running. Or you can set it to “on,” which signifies it will work constantly.
Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Des Moines? This isn’t always the case. Generally, operating your air conditioner’s fan all the time is going to drive up your energy bill slightly.
But it also provides a few advantages (and disadvantages) in regard to your residence’s comfort. Here’s why.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”
Having your air conditioner’s fan go all day can better stabilize your family’s comfort. This is ideal if you own a two-story residence, since spaces upstairs can be warmer. It’s also ideal if you have difficulties with unbalanced cooling because of hot and cold spaces.
It’s also good if one of your loved ones has been diagnosed with allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses. That’s since the air is continuously being circulated and filtrated. On the other hand, you may have to put in new air filters more regularly.
Having the fan on all day can also drive up your energy bills. It could also make the fan wear out more quickly and need air conditioning repair.
Your residence may also appear more moist. Air conditioning helps balance humidity by removing wetness from the air. But if the fan is constantly on, it’s more difficult for moisture to drip from the condenser outside.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”
This is the best energy-efficient setting, as the fan will only work when your air conditioner does. It’s ideal if your residence always appears pleasant, regardless of which area you’re in.
There are a few drawbacks to using the auto setting. You might have hot and cold locations in your house and decreased air quality. This is because air isn’t always flowing or being continuously filtered.
On the flip side, you’ll use reduced energy and won’t need to get a new air filter as frequently. Both are savings that can add up over the year, so you’ll have to consider what’s best for your family.
If you’re having home comfort issues during the summer, Heartland Heating & Cooling can assist you. We have a large range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your home more pleasant while also helping you save more on energy bills. Many also work with the latest smart home technology, giving you the ability to check and adjust temp settings while away.
To learn more about how we can make your residence more pleasant, contact us at 515-344-3579 right away.