What are the Advantages of a Variable Speed Air Conditioner

If you are considering replacing your air conditioner, you may want to consider upgrading to a variable speed unit. While this will probably cost you more than a stardard unit initially, the energy savings and increased comfort will make up for the added cost. Before going into the benefits of a variable speed unit, let me explain what a variable speed unit actually is.With every air conditioning system, the refrigerant, coils, evaporator, condenser and compressor stay busy absorbing the heat from inside your home and releasing it outside. The other very important component is your air handler. The air handler is responsible for moving air through your home.The operating efficiency of your system depends on how much electricity is required to move heat around your home and how much electricity is needed for the handler to push air throughout your home.
If you have a standard air conditioner, your air handler cyles on at a full blast and delivers air to your home using 100% of its capacity. This much air is not always necessary, especially if the cooling load of your home is lower. The result is wasted energy. A variable speed handler is able to adjust its speed to precisely meet your homes cooling or heating load.
With a standard unit, your a/c will cycle on and off repeatedly throughout the day. With a variable speed unit, your a/c will come on at full speed in the morning to bring your home to a comfortable level. Once this is acheived, the unit will drop the speed down lower and run nearly continuously throughout the day. This saves you money in two ways. First, the handler is saving energy by operating at lower speeds. Second, your air conditioner avoids repeated stops and start ups which require large amounts of electricity.
Listed below are the benefits you will receive from a variable speed air conditioner.
Peak Efficiency
Lower Noise Levels- Because the system is not operating at full speed, it is so quiet, you won’t hear it turn on.
Improved Comfort- With a standard a/c, the temperature within the home can vary drastically depending on whether the system is running or not. When it turns on you can get blasted with cold air and then when the system cycles off. you can get too warm. With a varible speed the unit the temperature is able to remain very consistent throughout the day and throughout your home.
Improved Air Quality- With a variable speed unit the air inside your home is passing through your HVAC system constantly allowing your filter to capture more particulant matter. The result is impoved air quality. In fact, owith a variable speed unit you may need to change your air filter more often a result of the increased filtration leading to cleaner air.
Humidity Control- Your air conditioner ats as a dehumidifier. When your air conditioner is running in much longer cycles, as with a variable speed unit, the result is less humidity and a higher level of comfort in the home. I hope this blog has provided you with ample information about the benefits of a variable speed air conditioner. The added initial expense may make them out of reach for some budgets, but if you can afford the upgrade you will see the investment come back to you with lower energy bills and a more comfortable home.
MTB Heating and Air offers a number of great high quality variable speed units. If you are considering replacing your air conditioner, give us a call. One of our experienced estimators can come to your home and advise you on the best unit to meet your needs. Heating and Air, It’s as easy as MTB!