On vs Auto: Do You Know Which Thermostat Setting Costs More to Use?
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It’s strange. You’ve seen thermostats for as long as you can remember. But do you know what these 2 settings do or what makes them different.
All you know is that you’ve been told to keep your thermostat set on “Auto”.
But why is that?
Because the “On” will cost you more money to use. Before we get into why we need to show you how they’re different.
The difference between “On” and “Auto”
These 2 settings refer to how your air conditioner’s fan will run. The fan is located in the inside unit and helps distribute the conditioned air throughout your home.
“Auto” means that the fan automatically works ONLY when the air is being heated or cooled. So once your home reaches the temperature set on the thermostat, the fan stops.
“On” means the fan is on 24/7, even when the air isn’t being heated or cooled.
4 reasons you shouldn’t use the “On” setting
Increases electric bill—Running the fan 24/7 could add about another $50 to your electric bill each month.
Quickly clogs your air filter—The fan will continually pull in air through your return vents, right where your air filter is. So it’s going to nab way more dust over a shorter period of time. That means you will have to change your air filter more often.
Can make you chilly in winter—The air coming through your vents when the furnace is off will feel chilly.
Blower needs more frequent maintenance—Using the fan more often means it’ll break down more often.
But it does have its advantages…
OK, so maybe we’re being harsh on the “On” setting. While you shouldn’t use it as your “go-to” fan setting, it can give you some benefits:
Makes you more comfortable—The fan will circulate air more evenly throughout your home, making you more comfortable.
Can help asthma and allergy sufferers—Do you have a high-efficiency HEPA filter? Running the fan more often means that filter is catching more airborne pollutants that agitate allergy and asthma symptoms.
Helps you dust your home—Your vacuum kicks up a ton of dust when you use it. So, before you start vacuuming, turn your thermostat to “On.” This will pull in airborne dust into your return air filter before the dust has the chance to settle again.
Summary
Set your thermostats fan setting to “Auto” most of the time and only switch it to “On” when necessary.
McCoy’s Heating & Air, your local heating and air conditioning company, serves Jackson and the surrounding areas. For more information on any of our products or services, contact us online.