Setting your thermostat for heating or cooling is quite simple. The “heat” setting activates the furnace, and “cool” starts up the air conditioner. Deciding on the appropriate fan setting can be more difficult, though. Learning more about the “on” and “auto” fan settings, and their pros and cons can make your decision easier.
Using the “Auto” Setting
On the “auto” setting, the fan runs only when the thermostat signals the air conditioner to cycle on. When the temperature setting is satisfied and the A/C cycles off, the fan does as well
- Advantages: Since the fan isn’t running constantly and the A/C isn’t working harder to compensate for re-circulated warmth and humidity, the system can operate efficiently. The air filter will last longer as well.
- Disadvantages: When the system cycles off, your home may get a bit warm and stuffy before the temperature rises enough for the thermostat to signal for cooling again. Repeated on and off cycling can also shorten the life span of the fan motor.
Using the “On” Setting
When the blower fan is set to “on,” it runs continuously, even when the air conditioner isn’t cooling.
- Advantages: With the fan running 24/7, the home’s air supply keeps moving through the HVAC filter nonstop, so more particles and allergens are trapped in the air filter. Because the fan isn’t starting and stopping repeatedly, there’s less wear and tear on the motor too.
- Disadvantages: Running the fan continuously uses more energy, so your monthly utility bills are likely to rise. The air filter also gets dirty faster.
Operating the fan nonstop isn’t advisable as it allows hot, humid air to build up in the ducts and be circulated through the home each time the A/C cycles off. This makes it harder to control humidity and can also increase your cooling costs. If you’re looking to improve filtration and air circulation, investing in an HVAC system with variable speed technology is a better long-term alternative.
For more advice about setting your thermostat to maximize comfort and energy efficiency in your Lorain home, contact the experienced HVAC pros at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about thermostats and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
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Serving the Lorain, OH Area