During the high temperatures, using your air conditioning can be your biggest monthly electricity charge. So, it’s normal that you’re checking for approaches to consume less energy. That might involve using an energy-efficient AC setting or even stepping up to an ENERGY STAR®-rated unit during air conditioner installation. Regulating your air conditioning’s fan setting is an additional way you can spend less money. Your air conditioner uses a fan to deliver the chilled air it creates. You manage this fan at your thermostat by switching it to “auto,” which signifies the fan will only work when the air conditioner is working. Or you can switch it to “on,” which signifies it will operate constantly. Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Des Moines? Not always. Generally, using your air conditioner’s fan all day is going to make your energy bill slightly higher. But it also offers 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 run continuously can better equalize your house’s comfort. This is good if you own a two-story residence, since areas upstairs can be warmer. It’s also great if you have issues with uneven cooling on account of hot and cold spaces. It’s also beneficial if someone in your household has allergies, asthma or other respiratory symptoms. That’s because the air is continuously being distributed and filtered. On the flip side, you may have to install new air filters more often. Having the fan on all the time can also drive up your energy bills. It could also result in the fan wearing out more quickly and need air conditioning repair. Your residence may also seem more humid. Air conditioning helps balance humidity by clearing moisture from the air. But if the fan is continuously on, it’s harder for moisture to flow from the condenser externally.
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 ideal if your house always appears the right temperature, regardless of which room you’re in. There are a few disadvantages to using the auto setting. You might have hot and cold locations in your residence and decreased air quality. This is because air isn’t constantly moving or being constantly filtered. On the flip side, you’ll use reduced energy and won’t have to get a new air filter as regularly. Both are savings that can build up over the year, so you’ll have to think over what’s right for your needs. If you’re having home comfort difficulties during warm weather, Heartland Heating & Cooling can support you. We offer a large range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your residence more pleasant while also helping you save more on energy costs. Many also work with the latest smart home technology, giving you the opportunity to oversee and regulate temp settings while you’re gone. To learn more about how we can make your residence more comfy, contact us at 515-344-3579 today.