AVG is all I use. I've been using it for years without any problems. I'll also do an occasional scan with Spybot - Search & Destroy and/or Ad-Aware Free
It's really not that hard to set AVG to scan when you want it to. By default, it's set to scan at 12:00 PM every day. You can also disable the link scanner, or chose not to install it during the installation.
I run the same. Been doing it for about 1-2 years.
I didnt like the link checker or auto scan either. I just scan like once a month or so when I walk away..