AUTO means that the fan turns on automatically only when your system is heating or cooling air. Once the thermostat reaches the desired temperature, the entire system shuts off until the next cycle. ON means that the fan is constantly on and blowing air when your HVAC system is not heating or cooling air.
Generally, the auto setting will start the furnace fan about half a minute after the burner is lit. The fan is turned off about a minute after the desired temperature is reached. The main benefit of setting the thermostat to 'Auto' is that it will result in more energy efficient usage.
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.
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 Thermostat Setting Is Best: On, Auto, or Circulate? Given the amount of money it costs in increased utility bills and filter purchases to keep your AC fan running constantly, most of the time, you'll want to keep the fan in the “auto” position.
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.
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.
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.
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 ...
• AUTO (automatic) mode
Automatic mode sets the thermostat to follow the temperature program.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The short answer: Definitely not. (Unless you have manually engaged your outside fan to run constantly, but it shouldn't be running for hours on it's own.) If your HVAC is functioning correctly, it should keep your house cool by cycling on for 15-20 minutes at a time—with distinct pauses in between each cycle.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. However, even though it's recommended to leave your home's AC on auto, there are some beneficial times to keep it switched on.
Cool mode: Ideal for hot days, this mode reduces the room temperature to your desired setting. Dry mode: Perfect for humid conditions, this mode removes excess moisture from the air without significantly reducing the temperature.
There are a number of reasons why your air conditioner might be running but not cooling. It could be an issue with the thermostat, the compressor, or the evaporator coils. Or, it could simply be clogged with dust and debris, which is preventing it from working properly.
In general, wall and window air conditioning units with smaller capacities can typically run for up to eight hours at a time before they need to rest. Larger wall and window units have a longer running time of around 10 to 12 hours, depending on their cooling power.