Call This Sunday to Get $50 OFF

4.8 / 5 Ratings based on 8376 reviews

Great Service, Great Reviews
24 Hour service - 7 Days a week
Jul 09 2023

How To Adjust The AC Fan Speed

Understanding and adjusting your air conditioning unit's fan speed can greatly impact your energy bills and the lifespan of the unit itself. At Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air, we provide a variety of high-quality services for our local clients including air conditioning repair and have seen firsthand how this seemingly small issue can lead to major trouble. Read below to discover the reasons behind adjusting your AC's fan speed and when to call an HVAC company.

Why Adjust Your AC's Fan Speed?

An AC's fan speed isn't a "set it and forget it" detail. Adjusting it can greatly enhance the performance of your unit. Here’s why:

  • Energy Efficiency - The right fan speed can reduce energy consumption. A slower fan speed ensures the air spends more time in the evaporator coils, which helps in more efficient cooling and reduced electricity usage.
  • Comfort Level - The comfort level in your home is a function of even temperature distribution, which is directly influenced by fan speed. A balance between too slow and too fast offers the best comfort.
  • System Longevity - Consistent high speed can strain your AC, leading to frequent breakdowns and a shorter lifespan. Adjusting the speed to optimal levels reduces wear and tear, promoting longevity.
  • Indoor Air Quality - Fan speed affects air circulation and filtration. An optimal speed ensures better air quality by allowing for efficient distribution of filtered air.

How to Adjust Your AC Fan Speed

Before diving in, remember every HVAC system is different, and what works for one might not work for another. While some units come with automatic speed adjustments or easy-to-change control settings. However, some models may require manually changing the speed. If so, the following steps are likely necessary:

  • Turn off the AC: Before starting, always switch off your unit to avoid electrical shocks.
  • Locate the circuit board: The fan speed settings are usually on the AC's circuit board. Refer to your user manual to locate it.
  • Identify the fan speed wires: Typically, there are multiple colored wires with each corresponding to a different speed.
  • Adjust the fan speed: Unplug the current wire and replace it with the one corresponding to the desired speed.
  • Test the unit: After everything is set, turn your AC back on and check if the fan is working at the desired speed.

Remember, this is a generalized guide, and the process can differ based on your AC model.

Risks of Adjusting Your Own AC Fan

While adjusting the AC fan speed might seem straightforward, it’s not without risks:

  • System Damage - Incorrectly adjusting the fan speed can cause damage. It can also potentially void the manufacturer’s warranty, leading to an expensive AC repair or replacement.
  • Safety Hazards - Electrical systems are always hazardous. If not handled with care, you run the risk of getting an electric shock.
  • Efficiency Loss - Setting the fan speed too high or too low can lead to energy inefficiencies, resulting in higher electricity bills.
  • Impaired Indoor Air Quality - Improper fan speeds can affect the air quality inside your home, leading to potential health hazards.

Hiring Professionals for AC Fan Speed Adjustment

If this all seems overwhelming, don’t worry. HVAC professionals are well-equipped to handle these tasks:

  • Expert Knowledge - Professionals have the experience and knowledge to correctly adjust the fan speed without causing any damage.
  • Safety - Trained technicians prioritize safety, using the correct tools and practices to minimize any risks.
  • Efficiency and Longevity - With a professional’s touch, your AC’s fan speed will be optimized for efficiency and longevity.

Are You Searching for a Local HVAC Company?

Do you need help making your AC unit more efficient? Get professional care from the specialists at Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air today. Our dependable staff is always available to help you reach your goals. From speed fan adjustments and maintenance tasks to emergency air conditioning repair or replacement, we’ve got the training, experience, and equipment to get the job done right. Contact our team for more details or to schedule a convenient appointment for your next AC repair, installation, or maintenance service.

Dryer Vent Special

Coupon

Redeem & Save Today

$95

$95 (Reg $195) up to 6 feet. Your dryer's exhaust system can get clogged with lint, which will keep your dryer from functioning properly. As a result the dryer will take longer to dry clothes, and it will also increase your electric bill and create a fire risk.

Vent23


* Offer Expires: December 2024 Print
NOW

Furnace or AC
Safety Inspection

Coupon

Redeem & Save Today

$77

Per Unit Reg. $229 & Up - Residential homes only. The price does not include filters. Cannot be combined with any other offer.  

Inspect77


* Offer Expires: December 2024 Print
NOW

AC Installation

Coupon

Redeem & Save Today

$500 OFF

Get $500 OFF Today for AC Replacement & Installation - Cannot be combined with any other offer.

AC21


* Offer Expires: December 2024 Print
NOW