Thermostat Auto vs. On: The Great Debate
Thermostat settings can be a point of great contention in people’s homes, and everyone has their own opinion about the most efficient way to use their air conditioner. While we welcome the summer months with sunny blue skies and warmer temperatures, many of us disagree on the most comfortable temperature for our indoor environments. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros, cons and differences between setting your thermostat fan to AUTO or ON.
Pros to setting your thermostat fan setting to AUTO
AUTO means that your thermostat fan turns on only when it’s heating or cooling air. You set your thermostat to your desired temperature, and once your HVAC system reaches that temperature, the system shuts itself off. AUTO is a more energy-efficient option because your system only runs when needed, instead of running continually.
AUTO is also beneficial for the hot summer months because it dehumidifies the air more efficiently. When your fan is running non-stop, moisture stays in the air flow and your air conditioner has to work harder to remove it.
Cons to setting your thermostat fan setting to AUTO
You may notice air isn’t distributed evenly when your thermostat is set to AUTO, because once it reaches the desired temperature, your HVAC system shuts off. Additionally, the AUTO setting can cause your blower motor fan to wear out more quickly, due to turning on and off more frequently.
Pros to setting your thermostat to ON
ON means your air conditioner stays on until you manually turn it off. The ON setting more evenly distributes air throughout your home, reducing the chance of hot spots. Keeping your thermostat set to ON is also less of a strain on your blower motor fan because of the constant airflow.
Cons to setting your thermostat to ON
Unfortunately, leaving your fan set to ON is often the least cost-effective option. Your HVAC system is constantly working to distribute cool air even once your thermostat reaches the desired temperature. You’ll also need to replace your filter more often because air is blown through it consistently.
Need a better compromise for your thermostat setting?
If you’re struggling to find the perfect way to cool your home during summer, or if you want to know what other energy-efficient and cost-effective options are available, our team is happy to help.
For more information about Crosstown Plumbing, or if you have any questions about thermostat settings, please contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.
