There is no question that running a fan will use less energy than running a central air conditioner. However, an accurate analysis of the cost of running fans vs. air conditioning is a bit more complicated than that. First, consider this: Running a fan does not actually lower the air temperature in your home. All fans can do is increase the air circulation. When a fan is facing your direction, you will feel a little more comfortable because of the air flow being pushed at you. However, the air itself isn’t actually any cooler.