1999 A/C Always on? Is this normal

[crazybronco]

My 99 Ranger 2.5L 5 speed seems to always have the A/C on any time the heater is in any position but off. Now I know that with factory A/C it will come on with th e defrost to help dry the air, and of course it is on in both A/C positions. However, it does not shut off in the other positions. Is this normal?
It seems like a waste of fuel to run it all the time. Is there a way to stop this?
For now I just unplugged the compressor, but know that is not a good solution, I do need it come summer and to use with the defrost.
Any suggestions?

 

[wally]

mine does the same thing but it is good to run it during the winter months so the compressor doesn't seize up.