If you’re a homeowner, you’ve likely heard people extol the virtues of a constantly running HVAC fan. On the other hand, many others will tell you to steer clear of 24/7 fan use. With vast differences in opinion, you’re probably wondering what the best option really is. Let’s shed some light on the pros and cons of running your HVAC fan all the time to help you decide what’s best for you and your family.

The Advantages

Less Dust

Dust builds up over time, especially if you’re not changing out your air filter or cleaning the ducts regularly. When you run your fan all the time, dust doesn’t have a chance to stick around for long. You can’t completely get rid of dust, but constant fan usage greatly reduces the amount of dust in the ducts and the air throughout your home.

Fewer Allergens

Indoor allergens can be found in even the cleanest households. Anything from pet dander or mold to dust mites can affect your indoor air quality. Continuously running your fan will prevent those allergens from settling in one place. Additionally, air filters can capture allergens. The more times that an allergen cycles through the filter, the higher the chance that the filter will capture it.

Reduced Bacteria and Viruses

A constantly running HVAC fan can combat the number of bacteria and viruses within your home. According to the American Lung Association, the more your air circulates, the less chance the viruses have to spread. With air always on the move, bacteria and viruses can be pushed outside your home along with dirty air.

Stabilize Humidity

Too much humidity can be a problem, but too little can increase the spread of viruses like the flu. When your fan runs all the time, it helps balance the humidity throughout your home. More humid areas like the bathroom or an underground basement will air out faster when your fan runs.

The Disadvantages

Increased Expense

It’s true that the more your fan runs, the higher your bill will be. This is especially true if you have an older fan motor. You’ll want to consider the increased price to see if constantly running your HVAC fan will fit your budget.

Shorter Motor Life

While you can mitigate the effects, running your fan all the time means more stress on the motor. Your motor can live a bit longer if you replace the air filter frequently, at least every few months.

More Frequent Filter Changes

As mentioned above, you’ll need to change your air filter more often because you’re running your fan more often. Depending on the type of air filter, you’ll need to change it out anywhere from every month to every three months.

Seasonal Discrepancies

Your fan will make air move throughout your house, which means it will make your home feel colder in the winter. This is especially the case when the furnace isn’t running. Additionally, moving the warm air around in the summer months can cause your air conditioner to kick on more frequently.

What Should I Do?

As you can see, there are good points on both sides of the argument. Overall, keeping your fan running all the time helps you stay healthier, but it comes at the cost of greater expenses and maintenance. Ultimately, the best choice is what works best for you. If you or your family members suffer from severe allergies, the reduced allergens that come from constantly running your HVAC fan could outweigh the extra expense. However, if you choose to run your fan, be sure to keep up with repairs and maintenance to really make it worth your while.

No matter what you choose, F.H. Furr Plumbing & Heating will make sure your HVAC system is in the best shape possible. We can even help you decide what works best for your home concerning a running HVAC fan. Give us a call for HVAC repairs and installation today!