Best Mode for Honeywell Thermostat – Auto or On? 

It might be the first time you are dealing with a thermostat, and this is the question that has been bothering you!

Should I keep the thermostat ON or in AUTO mode?

It can be a little confusing to conclude if you don’t understand each option in detail. Every mode has its advantages and challenges. Honeywell thermostat reset is an easy way to give a fresh start to the system. However, how do you ensure that after the start, it runs properly? Which mode to select for the best performance?  This decision is made depending on your priorities and environment. 

This blog shares in detail the benefits and limitations of ON and AUTO modes in a Honeywell thermostat. Although it focuses on Honeywell, these points apply to almost any other thermostat available in the market. Knowing your system well will help you in utilizing it in the best possible way for your space. 

What are the ‘On’ and ‘Auto’ Modes?

As the name suggests, ON mode is when the system remains on until you make a change in the setting. When the thermostat is in AUTO mode, it decides when to stop the heating/cooling after sensing the air temperature in the room.

Now, neither of the modes is good or bad. Each mode is highly beneficial in certain situations. Let us understand each mode in detail and find out the suitable thermostat mode for your space. 

Understanding the ‘On’ Mode in Detail

When the thermostat is on the ON mode, it will signal the fan to run continuously for 24 hours to 365 days. You can break the continuity by making a change in the setting.

If you do not touch the setting, it will keep on circulating the air without any break. People who want to keep the environment extremely clean and fresh prefer to keep them in this mode.

Here are some of the advantages of keeping your thermostat on the ON mode:

• The temperature of your space will stabilize with regular air circulation. The cold and warm air will evenly spread across the space and create a moderate zone. You will not find extremely hot or cold areas in the space where the thermostat is on the ON mode. 
• Air filtration is enhanced when you keep the fan in this mode. The air is constantly passing through the system and filtering itself. Any dust or dirt created in the environment due to vacuuming or cleaning will be removed from the air due to continuous circulation. 
• Continuous circulation will keep your family free from viruses and diseases that can breed in the home environment. The air circulation will not allow the dust or virus to remain intact and grow in any environment. 
• The fan motor will face less stress as it does not have to turn on and off continuously. The constant functioning of the fan will add to the motor’s life. 

A thermostat with ON mode will cost you much more than that on AUTO mode as it keeps running continuously. Also, the filters will need to be changed frequently as the fan keeps on circulating air constantly. During the summers, keeping it on can put more stress on the AC and thus enhance the electricity bill. 

Understanding the ‘Auto’ Mode in Detail

When in AUTO mode, the thermostat makes an independent decision of when to turn off the system. It will only function when the air conditioning or heating is running. When those systems are off, the air will not flow from the vent.

Some of the benefits of putting your thermostat on AUTO mode are as follows.

• It uses less energy compared to the ON mode and thus costs less. AUTO mode is perfect for you if you have a budget constraint. 
• As the fans are not running continuously, you will not need to change the air filters regularly. They will last much longer than in ON mode. 
• In summer, AUTO mode allows the moisture from the air conditioning system to drain. With ON mode, this moisture is thrown back into the home. 

With an AUTO mode, there will be no air circulation when the heating and cooling systems are turned off and the cycle ends. This can lead to suffocation and impure air. As the fan keeps on turning on and off, it wears out quickly. The proportion of air filtration is less in this mode, which can lead to irritation and itchiness in the environment. 

Which Setting is the Best for Your Space?

If cost is not a constraint, having your thermostat on an ON mode is advisable, except for summers. In summer, give your system the time to drain moisture. However, if you are looking after the cost, it is better to keep your thermostat on AUTO mode most of the time. However, you can change them back to ON mode in certain situations. 

Keep your thermostat in ‘ON’ mode whenever you are cleaning up the space to keep the air free from dust. This mode will also create a suitable environment for family members who are suffering from allergies or changing seasons. This mode will circulate air regularly and cause less suffocation when there are more members. 

Whenever you feel the need to clear up the space from dirt and dust, keep it ON for a few days.

Understanding each mode will make it easier for you to decide.