Have you ever wondered if you should use the fan mode setting on your air conditioning system when your AC is turned off? Or would it be best to continuously run the fan? Here are some key points to keep in mind.
AC Fan Auto Setting:
The fan will run while your air conditioning is cooling your home. When the AC cycles off, the fan will shut off.
AC Fan On Setting:
The fan will always blow and circulate air throughout your house, no matter what the temperature setting is on the thermostat and whether the air conditioning is running or not. If your HVAC has an indoor air purification system installed into the ductwork, it will require the AC fan mode to be turned on. If your family has allergies, you may benefit from the AC fan continuously running to have cleaner, fresher air.
Would it be a good idea to leave the AC fan constantly running? Having the fan continuously recirculating air throughout your house seems like the right thing to do. Though this will increase wear and tear on your air conditioning system. There are a few other disadvantages when the AC fan runs continuously:
Increased indoor humidity:
When the air conditioning system is on, the condenser coils stay cool. When the AC cycles off, the coils warm up. If the AC fan setting is set to auto, it will shut down when the air conditioner cycles off. Water condensation on the coils will either stay on the coils or drop into the drip pan. When the AC fan is set to the on position, air flows over the coils as the condenser coils warm up. This causes pooled water drops to evaporate pushing extra humidity into your home.
Dirtier HVAC Air Filter:
Indoor air has dust particles, dust mites, pet hair, pollen, dead skin cells, and other indoor pollutants. When the AC fan is set to on, the indoor air contaminants will accumulate at a higher rate on the AC filter. You’ll have to change the air filter more often to keep your HVAC system running optimally.
Higher Utility Bills:
By running the AC fan mode continuously, air will be recirculated throughout your house constantly, increasing monthly utility bills.
Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating technicians will be happy to answer all your questions about your AC’s fan settings for spring and summer. Call today to schedule your AC maintenance at 480-968-5652.