Should I keep my thermostat on auto or fan?

Author: Justine Lehner  |  Last update: Friday, October 10, 2025

"ON" keeps the fan running continuously, which can help with air circulation and filtration but may consume more energy. Choose "AUTO" for energy savings and "ON" if you want constant air circulation or improved air filtration.

Should thermostat be set on auto or fan?

Since the AUTO setting means the fan is only engaged when the system is on, rather than constantly blowing, AUTO is the most energy-efficient option between the two settings. This means you'll be using less energy and saving money on your electric bill by using the AUTO setting.

Is it better to have a fan on an auto or on?

Keeping your fan on AUTO is the most energy-efficient option. The fan only runs when the system is on and not continuously. There is better dehumidification in your home during the summer months. When your fan is set to AUTO, moisture from cold cooling coils can drip and be drained outside.

Is it better to leave thermostat on auto?

The main benefit of setting the thermostat to 'Auto' is that it will result in more energy efficient usage. This is because the fan will run only when it's required. Also, the air filter will need to be changed or cleaned less frequently when the thermostat setting is set to 'Auto'.

What are the disadvantages of auto mode in AC?

AUTO Setting Disadvantages
  • Hot and Cold Spots. The air distribution throughout the house may be uneven, leaving some areas colder than others. ...
  • Limited Air Circulation. ...
  • Blower Fan Wear and Tear.

Should my thermostat fan be on auto or on?

Should I run my AC on auto or cool mode?

Energy Efficiency

AUTO is significantly more energy efficient between the two modes since the fan is only running when your AC is going through its cooling cycle. This takes less power, which is more budget-friendly, with some estimates showing you can save as much as $50 per month just by keeping your AC on AUTO.

Which mode is best for AC in summer?

WHAT IS THE BEST MODE FOR AC IN SUMMER? In summer, the best mode for your air conditioner is the "Cool" mode, set to a comfortable temperature around 78°F when you're home. This setting efficiently reduces indoor humidity and maintains a comfortable environment without overworking the AC system.

Should I run my AC fan on auto or circulate?

Setting your thermostat to auto will allow your system to be more energy-efficient since the fan only runs when the system cycles on, not continuously.

What setting should I leave my thermostat on?

Energy.gov suggests that 68 degrees is a good room temperature while you're awake at home but recommends lowering it while you're asleep or away. Lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day can reduce your annual heating expenses by as much as 10 percent.

Is it okay to leave the fan on the thermostat?

When the fan is set to “on,” the blower operates continuously even when the heating or cooling equipment cycles off. Leaving the fan running reduces wear and tear on the motor since it's not starting and stopping repeatedly.

Should I run my AC fan all the time?

Pros of Keeping Your Fan On

First, running fans contribute to even temperature distribution. This reduces the hot spots in your house. Hot spots occur when an area doesn't receive the same temperature-controlled air as other rooms. You'll also enjoy improved air quality in your home.

Is it better to leave AC on auto or off reddit?

There's nothing wrong with either manually adjusting your thermostat or programming your thermostat to automatically adjust to a lower temperature at night or a higher temperature when you're away for several hours, but you should never go more than a couple of degrees in any direction, otherwise you're using too much ...

Why is my AC constantly running on auto?

The Short Answer Is: When your air conditioning system keeps running and never seems to shut off, the problem could be linked to a number of malfunctioning components – frozen evaporator coils, a clogged air filter, a bad electrical relay switch that needs to be replaced, the fan blowing constantly, dirty condenser ...

Do you want fan on auto or on for winter?

Using the “Auto” Setting

This setting offers benefits including: Increased energy efficiency by running the fan only when needed. Extended filter life as the fan operates less frequently. Lower energy bills due to reduced electricity usage.

Can I run the fan only on a thermostat?

You can run your system's fan independently of heating or cooling. So your system doesn't need to be actively heating or cooling to run the fan. However, you can only run the fan when your thermostat is set to a temperature mode (like Cool mode, for example).

What does auto mean on a Honeywell thermostat?

• AUTO (automatic) mode

Automatic mode sets the thermostat to follow the temperature program.

Should my thermostat be on auto or on?

Keeping your thermostat in the AUTO position means less overall energy is being used—and that reduces your utility bills considerably. Not only that, your air filter will last longer than they will if you leave your fan running continuously—in other words, if you leave it in the “on” position.

Is 78 too hot for a house?

Quick answer: The ideal house temperature is room temperature, which ranges from 68 to 78 degrees F, though this may vary from season to season. In winter, the average room temperature is generally 62 to 68 degrees, whereas in the summer, the average temperature is 72 to 78 degrees.

What is the best thermostat setting for summer?

You want to keep your home cool, but also want to keep control of your electricity bills. Keeping in mind both energy efficiency and comfort, the best thermostat settings for summer are 76° when you are home, 80-85° when you are away and 72° at night.

Is it better to leave AC fan on or auto?

This means, that in turn, when your setting is turned on auto less electricity is used. When your fan and air conditioner are running all the time, more electricity is produced. All in all, it is better to leave your air conditioner's fan on auto, instead of “On” at all times.

What is the difference between fan on and auto and circulate on a Honeywell thermostat?

Auto: Fan runs only when the heating or cooling system is on. On: Fan is always on. Circ: Fan runs randomly about 33% of the time. *The circulate option that allows you to set the fan to run a certain amount of time per hour.

Should I keep my thermostat fan on or auto for humidity?

Leaving your AC fan set to ON allows the moisture in your home to accumulate and reach mold-growing levels of humidity. To ensure that you and your family stay cool and healthy this summer, keep your AC thermostat fan setting to AUTO.

Should I set AC to cool or auto?

As a rule, keeping your AC fan setting on auto can save money. Because you're not running the fan all the time, you consume less energy over time. Less energy consumption translates into lower utility bills.

Is 72 too cold for AC?

While the standard room temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit is commonly favored by many, others argue for higher settings, particularly when it's hotter outside.

Is fan mode good for AC?

Run Continuously: Setting the fan to run continuously can help in evenly distributing air and maintaining a consistent room temperature. Extend AC Life: Using fan mode can reduce the wear and tear on the compressor, extending the lifespan of your AC unit.

Previous article
How to thaw frozen pipes in a wall?
Next article
Should I mist my snake plant?