The thermostat is the main control system for your home’s heating, ventilation and cooling system (HVAC). Whether you want to make your home cooler or warmer, you’ll need to adjust the thermostat.
When inspecting the thermostat, though, you may notice two primary options for the fan: ON and AUTO. While you can use them either of them when running your HVAC system, they are designed for different purposes.
What Is the ON Setting?
The ON setting is designed to continuously run your HVAC system’s blower fan.
All HVAC systems feature a blower fan. It’s usually found at or near the air handler. Powered by a motor, it blows air through the ducts where it’s then distributed throughout your home.
When you activate the ON setting on your thermostat, the blower fan will continue to run until you disable this setting.
What Is the AUTO Setting?
The AUTO setting, on the other hand, is designed to run your HVAC system’s blower fan only when the air is being cooled or heated.
If you have the air conditioner or heat turned on, the blower fan will continue to blow air through the ducts until the desired indoor temperature has been reached.
The AUTO setting allows your HVAC system’s blower fan to turn on and off automatically.
Once the temperature for which you set your thermostat has been reached, the blower fan will automatically turn off. If the temperature inside your home increases or decreases beyond the thermostat’s temperature setting, the blower fan will turn back on.
Choosing Between the ON and AUTO Setting
In most situations, you should use the AUTO setting on your thermostat.
You really don’t need the blower fan to run if your home is a comfortable temperature. The AUTO setting ensures that the blower fan only runs when the air is being cooled or heated.
If you use the ON setting, you’ll pay more in utility costs. The blower fan is powered by an electrical motor. Therefore, running it consumes electricity.
Not only does it contribute to higher utility costs; using the ON setting may wear down your blower fan to the point where it requires more frequent repairs or even a replacement.
At the same time, you may find yourself replacing the air filter more frequently when using the ON setting. Since it constantly forces air through the filter, the filter will get dirty quicker.
If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.
1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.
