Cost Savings for Installing Fans Over A/C

You wouldn't be alone if you were a fan of a fan. There's something about the movement of air and twirling of the blades above that's just, well, cool. Not to mention how much more cost-effective and energy-efficient they are to air conditioning. A/C units can rack up serious energy bills, while fans provide a simple, affordable way to maintain comfort without breaking the bank.

Perhaps you’re looking to reduce energy usage by looking at more environmentally friendly cooling solutions, or you just want to lower your utility costs. Either way, let’s explore why fans might just be the unsung heroes of your cooling strategy.

Why Consider Ceiling Fans?

Ceiling fans cool a space by creating a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler without actually lowering the room’s temperature. While there's the argument that all they do is blow hot air around, just the movement of warm air and breeze on your skin can cool you down.

They use far less energy than air conditioning, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution. Running a fan all night costs significantly less than if you were to run AC.

Plus, there's a bonus: ceiling fans are great mosquito deterrents. By dispersing your breath and the carbon dioxide that attracts mosquitoes, fans make it harder for them to locate you. Additionally, the breeze also physically blows mosquitoes away, making it difficult for them to land or fly around.

It’s a win for comfort, cost savings, and keeping those pesky bugs at bay.

Cost Comparison: Fans vs. Air Conditioning

If you use air conditioning and are looking to cut down on your energy use and slash electrical bills, then ceiling fans are the way to go for energy efficiency.

According to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water, a ceiling fan typically uses around 10–120 watts of electricity per hour, compared to air conditioners, which consume anywhere from 2,000–5,000 watts. Over time, this difference can lead to substantial savings on energy bills with fans running at only around 2 cents per hour, whereas a reverse cycle air conditioner may cost $1.00. Multiply that over a month, and you could save upwards of $30 per room by using fans instead of A/C.

Switching to ceiling fans—or combining them with limited air conditioner use—is one of the best ways to reduce your energy consumption and save money on your energy bills.

Benefits of Using Fans Alongside Your Air Conditioner

On the subject of combining fans with limited air conditioning, pairing the two creates a cooling system powerhouse. Fans circulate cool air from your ducted air conditioning more effectively. This allows you to set your thermostat and air temperature higher while maintaining comfort. And for every degree you raise your A/C, you can save up to 10% on energy costs.

Additionally, fans help cold air cool specific areas faster, reducing the need to run your fan or air conditioner for extended periods.

Finally, not only does this lowers energy usage but also extends the life of your air conditioning system. As a result, combining your air conditioning unit with a fan is an excellent cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for your home or business.

Installation Costs and Considerations

Firstly, it's important to note that while there is an upfront cost with ceiling fan instalment, the investment will soon pay for itself if you have primarily been using an air conditioner.

Ceiling fan installation costs can vary, typically ranging from $100 to $300, depending on several factors, including the complexity of the installation, whether new wiring is needed, the type of fan being installed and any adjustments to existing fixtures that may be required.

Also note that if your home already has pre-wiring for a ceiling fan, then the cost may be lower.

Tips for Choosing the Right Ceiling Fan

If you're looking to reduce energy consumption and save on electricity bills, then it makes sense to look for models with energy ratings or DC motors, which use less electricity.

Consider the size of the room—larger spaces need fans with a wider blade span, while smaller rooms can benefit from compact designs. Adjustable speed settings and a reverse function, which circulates warm air trapped near the ceiling without creating a draft for winter use, are also smart features.

Now, don’t forget the aesthetic factor—choose a fan that complements your space’s décor. Consider taking a photo of the style first and envisioning how it suits your room. From modern minimalist styles to classic timber finishes, you'll find a fan to suit every home.

Finally, choose the right professional electrician in your area for installation. Ask around, check reviews and ensure they're qualified and reliable.

Environmental Impact of A/C Use

Air conditioning systems not only hurt the hip pocket—they impact the environment due to their high energy consumption and reliance on refrigerants that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

In contrast, ceiling fans use far less electricity, offering a more sustainable cooling solution. By reducing or complementing air conditioning usage with fans, you can lower your carbon footprint while still staying comfortable. Fans are the smart choice for eco-conscious households.

Remember, every small step, no matter how little, such as choosing fans over your air conditioning for mild days, contributes to a greener and more sustainable future.

Save Money and Energy with a Ceiling Fan

Incorporating ceiling fans into your cooling strategy not only offers substantial cost savings and energy efficiency but also contributes to a more sustainable and comfortable living environment.

Here at Easther Electrical, we offer full-service fan repair, fan replacement and fan maintenance—let us help you stay cool while saving energy today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does putting your AC on fan save money?

Yes, using your AC on fan mode circulates air without cooling it, reducing energy consumption compared to full cooling mode. As a result, this will save you money on your energy bills.

Is a fan cheaper to run than AC?

Absolutely. Ceiling fans are significantly cheaper to run than air conditioning systems, as they do not cool the air and use much less power to circulate air.

Do ceiling fans reduce air conditioning costs?

Yes, ceiling fans can reduce air conditioning costs by combining the two and allowing you to set the thermostat higher while still feeling cool due to improved air circulation.

Are ceiling fans expensive to run in Australia?

No. Ceiling fans are generally very cost-effective to run in Australia—around 2 cents an hour— especially compared to air conditioning, with minimal electricity usage.