Should you set your thermostat to "On" or "Auto?"

You may wonder why your thermostat has a “Fan: On” and “Fan: Auto” feature. You may also wonder when you would use either setting. The answer is simple: Try a combination of both!

“On,” tells your fan to run constantly, and “Auto” only lets your fan run when your system is cooling or heating your home. A tip to try this out is to set your fan to “On” when you are home and “Auto” when you are away.

Fan: On

Advantages

If your system’s fan is constantly running, the air in your home will keep circulating. Therefore, more dust particles will be captured. This is a very helpful setting for those who suffer from allergies. The mold is less likely to grow when air continues to move through the air ducts. A longer lifespan may even result from having fewer starts and stops.

Disadvantages

With the fan always on, the filter will require more frequent replacement. You can also use more electricity than auto. During the winter, the fan may blow cool air when the heat is off.

Fan: Auto

Advantages

With the fan turning off when the air isn’t being treated, you’ll notice lower costs on your energy bill.

Disadvantages

With the fan turning on and off frequently, the start/stop mechanism can malfunction more easily. You’ll also lose the benefit of air circulating through your home regularly.