When it comes to achieving ideal indoor comfort, the speed and efficiency of your HVAC system play a key role. Many homeowners hear the term “variable speed” but aren’t quite sure what it means or how it can benefit their home. Variable speed HVAC systems adjust their output to meet your heating and cooling needs more accurately, creating a consistently comfortable environment.
Indoor Comfort Team, trusted in St. Louis and surrounding areas since 1979, is here to break down how variable speed technology works and why it’s worth considering for your home.
Variable Speed Handlers – How Do They Work?
Modern air conditioning systems rely on compressors that pump refrigerant to and from the coils of your indoor unit. When the temperature rises, and you turn your thermostat down, the compressor speeds up and pumps refrigerant to the AC’s air handler more quickly. The handler works in conjunction with the blower, which also runs at a higher speed to cool down the home.
New variable-speed AC units contain variable-speed compressors that are capable of running at different speeds, meaning you can cool your home at different rates. When the temperature outside is mild, you may not need your AC unit to run at 100 percent. Having the flexibility to deliver cool air at a customized rate gives you more control over the comfort of your home and the amount of energy you use to keep it comfortable.
Think about it this way. A standard air handler would introduce a blast of cool air into your home until the house reaches a set temperature. Once it hits this specified temperature, the unit will go into standby mode. Variable speed handlers, on the other hand, run at various speeds based on your preferred comfort level. With a variable-speed air conditioner, you get more consistent cooling with other key benefits, such as less noise.
When you rely on Indoor Comfort Team to install your new variable-speed system, you are provided with our satisfaction guarantee. We ensure that any system installed will perform as we have stated and agreed on and that our technicians will care for your home and complete the job with speed and precision.
Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage Compressors
The majority of central AC systems in the U.S. use single-stage compressors. This type of compressor has remained the standard for decades and is the most familiar to people with cooling units. Single-stage compressors turn on automatically when the indoor temperature in the home exceeds the temperature set on the thermostat. This means that if you set your thermostat to 70 degrees, the AC will run once it reaches 71.
Unlike variable speed compressors, traditional single-stage handlers always operate at 100 percent capacity. As running at full speed at all times can quickly cool off the home, you’ll often find that your cooling system turns on and off frequently throughout the day as the temperature rises and falls.
With a single-stage compressor, homeowners are limited to basic “on” and “off” switches with minimal flexibility. Two-stage systems take this concept a step further by offering homeowners more control over the temperature in their homes. With a two-stage system, you can choose from other settings, such as “high” or “low”. The high stage will generally operate at 100 percent capacity, while the low stage will often operate at around 65 percent capacity.
Saving Money with a Variable Speed System
If you’re looking for ways to save money on your heating and cooling costs, a variable-speed system may be the solution. Installing a variable speed furnace or air conditioner can lead to considerable savings over traditional single-stage or two-stage systems, despite common misconception.
Some people believe that variable-speed HVAC equipment uses more energy than traditional systems because it is constantly running. However, this isn’t true. Variable-speed systems run at just 50 percent capacity and use around 75 percent less energy than a single-stage unit that runs at full speed. Making the switch to a variable-speed system could save you hundreds of dollars each year in energy costs.
While variable speed systems can lead to noticeable energy savings, there are some downsides to consider. For example, a variable-speed HVAC unit is often much more expensive to purchase than a single-stage or two-stage system. However, many homeowners find that their long-term energy savings greatly exceed the initial expense.
At Indoor Comfort Team, we offer various discounts and financing options to help you save money and get the HVAC services you need when you need them. Give us a call anytime at (314)230-9542 to learn more about our special offers and great financing options.
Achieving Consistent Indoor Comfort
Traditional heating and cooling systems can lead to uneven indoor temperatures, with it sometimes being too cold and other times too warm. This is because single-stage units turn on at full blast and continue pushing out cold or hot air until the space has reached the set temperature. The unit then suddenly turns off until the temperature gets too high or drops too low.
In comparison, variable-speed systems use continuous heating and cooling cycles to keep the temperature in the home consistent. This leads to fewer hot and cold spots, making the home more comfortable for occupants.
Maintaining Humidity Control for Improved Indoor Air Quality
Humidity can make your home uncomfortable, especially during the hot, sticky summer. When central air conditioners are doing their job, indoor humidity levels are controlled, making the space more pleasant. However, some systems are more efficient at controlling humidity than others.
Variable-speed AC units are better equipped to control humidity compared to single-speed systems. As variable speed units are designed to operate for a longer period of time, they are better able to remove more moisture from the air. In fact, variable-speed systems can remove about 400 percent more moisture than single-stage systems.
Lowering Noise Levels in the Home
Having HVAC equipment continually running may seem like a noisy nuisance, but with variable-speed systems, this is anything but the truth. Variable-speed furnaces and AC units are surprisingly quiet and will not typically impact your living environment.
The noise level associated with variable-speed compressors is often much less than that of single-stage systems. This is because single-stage units are constantly turning off and on, and when running, blow air with full force. Variable-speed systems run consistently, and often at lower speeds, which generally results in quieter operation.
Indoor Comfort Team only works with leading brands to ensure satisfactory results with each install.
Factoring in the Disadvantages of Variable Speed Systems
While variable-speed HVAC equipment has many advantages, there are some downsides to consider before making the switch. First, the initial cost of these systems can be off-putting to some homeowners. Compared to a single-stage or two-stage system, you can expect a variable-speed unit to run anywhere from $1,500 to $8,000 or more.
Next, a variable-speed system is not needed for all homes. If you live in a location with mild temperatures and ideal humidity levels, this type of unit may not be useful, and a single-stage compressor may be a better option.
Finally, you’ll need to consider whether installing a variable-speed system will be cost-effective based on your current setup. Some systems may not be compatible with uninsulated ducts. As variable-speed AC units run long-term, they create condensation in ducts, which can lead to water damage and possible mold formation.
Schedule Reliable Service with Indoor Comfort Team
Choosing an HVAC system with variable speed technology can make a big difference in your home’s comfort, energy savings, and overall air quality. By adapting to your home’s specific needs, variable speed systems provide consistent temperatures, quieter operation, and increased efficiency.
If you’re considering upgrading or simply want to learn more about how this technology could benefit your household, Indoor Comfort Team is here to help. With decades of experience serving St. Louis and the surrounding area, our experts are ready to answer any questions and guide you toward the best options for your home’s comfort and efficiency needs. Call us anytime at (314)230-9542.
