Single Speed Vs. Variable Speed Air Conditioning

- 3:13 pm - March 11th, 2021

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The speed of your air conditioning system doesn’t have to do with how quickly it cools down your home. Instead, it’s related to how fast the motor runs. A single-speed motor runs at one speed, so it’s either on or off. A variable-speed motor, which is found in most of the modern air conditioning systems available today, has a bit more range when it comes to speed.

What does all of this mean for you? A variable-speed air conditioning system means better energy usage, better humidity control and better comfort coverage. Here’s how:

Energy Usage

Single speed compressors have two settings: on and off. Once your home has been cooled down, the equipment shuts off (this is known as a “cycle”). A lot of energy is drawn when the cycle starts up again – this is why the frequent cycling of a single speed AC is more costly than a variable speed motor. Variable speed compressors remain on to maintain the temperature at lower speeds, reducing energy use.

Humidity Control

Because single speed systems turn themselves off as often as they do, there’s less time during the cycle for the humidity to be drawn out of the home. Variable speed systems, however, are running for longer periods of time and more consistently, which results in more moisture being removed from the home and a more comfortable home.

Comfort Coverage

Single speed compressors blast your home with cold air before shutting down, letting your home warm back up again. We call this a temperature swing, and it’s avoidable with a variable speed system! Because variable speed models run consistently throughout the summer, temperature swings are virtually eliminated and your home remains at just the right level of cool.

Are you looking to improve your cooling comfort before the summer? Call or contact us online today to find out how a variable speed air conditioning system could be just what you need!