The Great Debate – Fans Or A/C

In this day and age, the air conditioner has been considered a necessity. A few decades back, this machinery would have been a tagged luxury, since the old trusty fan could do the trick. This has spawned the great debate of fans or A/C.

When it comes to the electricity costs involved, the humble fans, no doubt, win the contest. Air conditioning units, even the newest models and the most efficient types, occupy the top spot in terms of electricity consumption and usage. Records show that the typical family residence can consume on an annual basis some 2,800 kilowatt-hours of electricity. Annually, this equates to about 5 percent of all the electricity generated in the United States at a price of $11 billion.

A window type unit operating 12 hours a day consumes 335 kilowatt-hours in a month and costs more or less $40 per month. A medium-sized ceiling fan running at a high setting 12 hours per day will only cost around $3.50 per month. Fancier fans with higher revolutions per minute can add about $4.40 to the electrical bill.

The good news is that running an air conditioner 24/7 is not required for comfort. Utilizing a fan can also keep family members comfortable. Fans are particularly helpful in augmenting the effect of the air conditioner to cool humans. Moving air spreads the heat in metabolism, drawing it away from the body, while perspiration allows the skin to cool. This strategy not only translates to savings but also promotes a cleaner and greener earth as less energy is used. While the thermometer will reveal that the temperature is not affected by the ceiling fan, the feeling of coolness for the occupants in the room is increased. When a room feels cooler, the air conditioner can consequently be adjusted.

The fans or A/C debate may just draw a tie with the proposed combination. The approach is certainly a win-win situation for all. To help assess an individual or family’s needs and options to go for fans or A/C, as well as other heating and air conditioning inquiries, do not hesitate to contact us today.