During the high temperatures, using your air conditioning can be your highest monthly utility cost. So, it’s given that you’re seeking approaches to save. That may include finding an energy-efficient AC setting or even making the switch to an ENERGY STAR®-rated model during air conditioner installation. Modifying your air conditioning’s fan setting is a second way you can conserve money. Your air conditioner relies on a fan to deliver the chilled air it creates. You manage this fan at your thermostat by setting it to “auto,” which indicates the fan will only work when the air conditioner is operating. Or you can adjust it to “on,” which means it will work continuously. Does putting your AC on “fan” save energy in Des Moines? Not always. Generally, operating your air conditioner’s fan all day is going to drive up your energy bill slightly. But it also gives a few pluses (and drawbacks) in relation to your residence’s comfort. Here’s why.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “On”
Having your air conditioner’s fan operate all the time can better equalize your family’s comfort. This is great if you own a two-story house, since spaces upstairs can be more hot. It’s also great if you have issues with uneven cooling due to hot and cold areas. It’s also good if one of your family members has allergies, asthma or other respiratory illnesses. That’s because the air is continuously being distributed and filtrated. On the flip side, you may have to put in new air filters more regularly. Having the fan on all the time can also make your energy bills more expensive. It could also result in the fan wearing out more quickly and need air conditioning repair. Your home may also appear more moist. Air conditioning helps balance humidity by clearing moisture from the air. But if the fan is constantly running, it’s more difficult for moisture to flow from the condenser outside.
Air Conditioner Fan Set to “Auto”
This is the highest energy-efficient setting, as the fan will only go when your air conditioner does. It’s ideal if your residence always feels the right temperature, whichever room you’re in. There are a few drawbacks to using the auto setting. You could have hot and cold areas in your house and lower air quality. This is because air isn’t continuously being distributed or being repeatedly filtered. On the flip side, you’ll use a lower amount of energy and won’t need to switch your air filter as regularly. Both are savings that can add up over the year, so you’ll have to think about what’s best for your family. If you’re experiencing home comfort problems during warm weather, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling can assist you. We have a large range of energy-efficient air conditioners that can keep your home comfier while also helping you save more on electricity costs. Many also work with the latest smart home technology, giving you the opportunity to oversee and change temperature settings while away. To hear more about how we can make your home more pleasant, contact us at 515-207-6569 right away.