Should You Run Your Blower Fan Without the Furnace or Air Conditioner?

Most HAVC systems come equipped with a fan mode. This means the system’s fan runs without the furnace or air conditioner to heat or cool the air. But few homeowners know when to run this setting or if it is even beneficial. Will running the fan be helpful or cause future problems and the need for furnace repair in Saratoga, CA come winter?

When you set your thermostat to the fan setting without a timer it will run continuously to circulate the air. While there are some benefits, this shouldn’t be the default choice, because running the fan that much will use more energy. It will cost more and also cause the filters to clog faster and result in unnecessary wear to your heating and cooling system. That said, there are times when it is a good idea to use this setting.

When is Running the Central Fan Most Beneficial?

Here is when you should use your thermostat’s fan setting:

1. When Outdoor Temperatures are Comfortable

During early spring and late fall, there are periods of time when the weather is pleasant and you don’t really need your heating or cooling system. If your system is set on auto, you could go several days without circulating the air in your home. This can make the home feel stale and stuffy, especially in a more humid climate. Periodically turning on the fan will help move the air to keep it feeling fresh and clean. It can also help occupants of the home feel cooler and more comfortable.

2. When you Need Air Filtration

On the fan setting, the HVAC system continuously pulls air through the filter. So if you are suffering from pollutants, allergens, or poor indoor air quality then running the fan is an effective way to clean the air. Also, consider turning on the fan if you are sweeping, vacuuming, or completing a small renovation project that releases particles into the air.

3. When You Need to Dry Out Humid Areas

Do certain areas of the home start to feel humid if the air conditioner isn’t running? It is most common in the kitchen, bathroom, and utility room. If the humidity in the home is a problem, running the fan to circulate the air is a good way to dry things out. And eliminating the moisture will help reduce the growth of mold spores.

4. When You Need to Reduce Odors

Another good reason to run the fan is to help eliminate odors. So if you burn dinner or have a wet dog running around, use the exhaust fans in combination with the central fan to clear out the foul smell even faster.

5. When You Want More Even Temperatures in the Home

Have you noticed hot and cold spots in the home when your furnace and air conditioner doesn’t run? These uneven temperatures can be markedly uncomfortable. But circulating the air with the central fan will help disperse heat and even the temperatures back out. Also, running the fan at night will help you sleep better by keeping the temperatures more consistent.

For more tips about heating and cooling, or for furnace repair in Saratoga, CA contact our HVAC professionals at Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning.