Should my house thermostat be on auto or on?

Author: Kaleb Dickinson  |  Last update: Thursday, June 19, 2025

Choose "AUTO" for energy savings and "ON" if you want constant air circulation or improved air filtration. Temperatures can soar or plummet depending on the time of year. Throughout the year, it is important to have reliable heating and cooling systems in order to keep your home supplied with cool or warm air.

Should I set my thermostat to auto or on?

So, once the target indoor temperature is met, the thermostat will signal the heating or cooling system, as well as the fan, to turn “off.” With the “auto” fan setting, you can expect to conserve energy and lower energy bills (because your system fan is not constantly running and constantly using energy).

Is it better to have the fan on auto or on for heat?

Keeping your fan on AUTO is the most energy-efficient option. The fan only runs when the system is on and not continuously.

Is it better to leave AC on auto or on?

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.

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. Adam Ogilvie is the owner of ORC Services since 2010.

Should I set my thermostat fan to on or auto

What is the difference between auto and cool on an air conditioner?

Auto mode is similar to cool mode as the AC unit will work to cool the air down. However, unlike cool mode, once the room reaches the set temperature, both the compressor and fan switch off.

What is the best temperature to remove humidity?

Set the thermostat to a consistent temperature, even at 78°F, to keep humidity levels in check. Invest in a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers are designed to extract excess moisture from the air. Place one in areas like bathrooms, basements, or laundry rooms for best results.

Is it good to keep AC on an auto?

Does Keeping AC on Auto Save Money? 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.

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.

What does auto mean on a Honeywell thermostat?

• AUTO (automatic) mode

Automatic mode sets the thermostat to follow the temperature program.

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.

What is the auto mode on my AC?

When the system is in auto mode, it automatically adjusts the temperature and fan speed to maintain a constant, comfortable temperature. This means there is no need to adjust the temperature manually, which can result in lower energy consumption and greater energy efficiency.

Why is AC not blowing cold air?

First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.

Should thermostat be left on auto?

Your Thermostat is in the AUTO Position

Keeping your thermostat in the AUTO position means less overall energy is being used—and that reduces your utility bills considerably.

What is the best setting for home thermostat?

What temperature should you keep your house at? Or better yet, “What is the most energy saving temperature to set my thermostat at?” According to ENERGYSTAR.gov, the ideal home temperature should be between 70 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the difference between auto and heat on a thermostat?

Heat means only work when heat is wanted, cool means only work when cool is wanted. Auto lets you set a desired temperature medium where either heat or cold will be applied to reach that temp.

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.

What should I set my AC thermostat in the summer?

To stay comfortable and save money, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends the best AC setting during summer is 78°F (26°C) when you are home. Setting your air conditioner to this level will allow you to stay cool and avoid an unusually high electricity bill.

What should I set my AC to on a hot day?

Summer Air Conditioner Settings

In the summer, experts say the thermostat for your air conditioner should be set to at least 78°F during the day when people are at home.

Should AC be on auto or on?

There are benefits to having your air conditioner set to “auto” and “on.” The benefits of the “auto” setting include higher efficiency, lower energy bills, better humidity control, less wear and tear on some components, and quieter running.

What happens if I put my AC on auto mode?

Once you select auto mode, the AC unit will use its built-in thermostat to monitor the indoor temperature and adjust the cooling cycle accordingly. The air conditioner will turn on and off as needed, ensuring that your home stays at a consistent temperature without you having to manually adjust the settings.

Should my thermostat be on auto or fan?

Should I Set My Thermostat Fan to "ON" or "AUTO"? The Short Answer Is: The best thermostat fan setting for your heating and cooling system depends on your comfort preferences and energy efficiency goals. "AUTO" is the more energy-efficient option, as it runs the fan only when heating or cooling is actively needed.

Does leaving HVAC fan on increase humidity?

Turning your thermostat to the wrong setting by focusing solely on temperature rather than humidity is a common mistake. For example, running your AC unit in fan mode might increase the airflow in your home, but it will also increase the humidity level.

How to tell if you have too much moisture in your house?

What to look for when identifying a moisture problem
  1. Damp spots and water stains. Damp spots could appear in many places—on the floor, walls, or ceilings. ...
  2. Mold. ...
  3. Foggy windows. ...
  4. Musty smell. ...
  5. Sudden pest infestation. ...
  6. Warping or squeaking. ...
  7. An abnormally high moisture meter reading.

What humidity is best for sleeping?

Best Humidity for Sleeping

The best relative humidity for sleeping and other indoor activities has been debated. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the best indoor relative humidity falls between 30% and 50%, and it should never exceed 60%. Other studies suggest 40% to 60% is a better range.

Previous article
Do you need rinse aid with all-in-one?
Next article
Can a walk in shower be too big?