1999 A/C Always on? Is this normal

[crazybronco]

My A/C runs anytime the panel is in any position other than OFF. I know it should run in both A/C positions and in Defrost, but is it normal to have the compressor run in the other heat positions? It seems like a waste to have it going all the time.
For now I just unplugged it due to it being winter and I would rather save the fuel. But I want to make it so it only runs in A/C or Defrost. I want to keep the A/C, but would also like to not waste any more gas than I need to.
Anyone else dealt with this? How did you fix it?
BTW It a 1999 basic Ranger, 2.5L 4cyl, 5 speed 2wd, no options other than A/C. Looks like a fleet truck (its even white)

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Yes, it is normal.

 

[James86]

My compressor runs in all the positions except for the dash: not heat position (11 O'clock position). I use it a lot in spring or mild weather.

 

[fratermus]

Thanks for asking (and answering) this question. The wife and I were trying to figure out if we were imagining things. We also found the 11 o'clock and 2'oclock positions to be the the only ones without the compressor running.

{edited to add: can remember this because they are the only two positions that have exactly one icon on them, and that icon is an airflow arrow.}