What is Variable Speed?
We're glad you asked!
When you hear the term "variable speed," it refers to the furnace
blower motor. The blower motor is the component that determines
the airflow (or amount of air) that your blower will deliver to
your home.
How does it work?
When your furnace is installed, the ideal speed and airflow for
your home is set (depending upon your specific situation such
as the size of your home, etc.). However, there are situations
that can occur within the household to restrict this airflow such
as ductwork design, unit location, zoning or dirty filters, just
to name a few. A variable-speed motor allows the blower to automatically
adjust to always achieve the required amount of air in your home
despite circumstances. Other motors cannot adjust to overcome
the situation and the airflow in your home would not be at its
required level. Variable-speed motors have intelligent technology
to monitor incoming data from the blower and adjust accordingly
so you can feel confident that your system is working to control
your environment - giving you peace of mind.
Why should I buy a unit with a variable speed motor?
Having the technology of variable-speed in your furnace
offers many benfits:
Efficiency
Variable-speed motors can actually save you money on your energy
bill as they consume less electricity than standard motors. Also,
having a variable-speed furnace as part of your home's comfort
system means you will gain air conditioning efficiency or SEER.
The higher the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER), the more
energy efficient the unit. This means even more energy savings
for your household.
Zoning
Variable-speed furnaces are ideal for zoning where you control
the air conditioning of your home. Zoning allows you to customize
your comfort in different areas or "zones" in your home and control
your energy bills.
Air Quality
Humidity plays a big role not only in the comfort of your home
but also its air quality. The relative humidity in your home should
be between 30% - 60%. This range is most ideal to minimize growth
of biological pollutants such as mold and mildew. A variable-speed
motor combined with a humidistat allows you to control humidity
in your home. In addition, the consistent airflow of the variable-speed
motor helps to reduce temperature fluctuation for greater comfort
and improved air filtration.
It's all about Control
Most homeowners know that heating and cooling the home uses more
energy than any other appliance. This inevitably shows up every
month on the energy bill. It is a necessary evil we put up with
in order to be comfortable. What most people don't know is that
energy expenditures can be controlled!
Manufacturers now have the technology to deliver energy efficient
products. Look for high efficiency products (90% AFUE or above).
These products can really help you control energy costs. Also,
take advantage of other efficiency technologies such as variable-speed
and zoning. Not only will you see a difference in your monthly
bill, you'll also feel the difference.
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