When upgrading HVAC equipment, it’s worth investigating a variable speed system before you make a decision on the best system for your home. The term “variable speed” actually refers to the air handler component of an HVAC system. Although systems with variable speed air handlers have a higher upfront cost, the technology offers significant advantages over single-speed systems that only run on high, and two-stage units that offer just one lower speed level.
How Variable Speed Systems Work
Variable speed systems use sensors to automatically adjust the HVAC equipment’s output incrementally between 40 and 100 percent of capacity. The system starts up and runs on high until the temperature on the thermostat is reached. Then it drops down to the lowest speed necessary to maintain the required comfort level. Here are some of the reasons why a variable speed system may be the perfect choice for your Twin Cities area home:
- Lower energy bills. Variable speed air handlers run on low up to 80 percent of the time, so the equipment consumes less energy and you pay lower monthly utility bills. Additionally, the technology itself is engineered to use less energy, regardless of whether it’s operating continuously.
- Greater comfort. Variable speed systems run almost non-stop, so there are fewer spikes and dips in temperature. This creates a more comfortable living environment both winter and summer. Especially when paired with a zoning system, a variable speed air handler provides precision climate control throughout the various rooms of a home.
- Quiet operation. If you currently have a single-speed HVAC system, you’re used to hearing clangs and bangs every time it cycles on and off. Because a variable speed unit operates for extended periods at low speed, you may not even notice that it’s running.
- Better air quality. The almost continuous operation of a variable speed unit provides better dehumidification in the summer, and enhanced filtration year-round. This allows fewer allergens and pollutants to circulate in the air your family breathes.
To learn more reasons why a variable speed system may work well in your Twin Cities Metro area home, please contact us at Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about variable speed systems and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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