Variable Speed Air Conditioner Pros and Cons

If you’ve been looking for a new air conditioner, chances are you’ve encountered variable-speed AC units. These systems are described as highly energy efficient, but what are their other advantages and drawbacks? Understanding the pros and cons can help you decide if this type of AC is right for you. 

At Monkey Wrench, we don’t just repair air conditioning systems; we also help homeowners all over Los Angeles and the surrounding area understand the differences and highlights in the available air conditioning technology. Since 2007, we’ve received specialized training from the top brands in the industry to understand how all of this technology works.

Here are the pros and cons of variable speed air conditioners. 

Pros

• Highly energy efficient 
• Money saving
• Long lifespan
• Enhanced comfort

Even though they have plenty of benefits, these AC systems have a few drawbacks.

• High upfront cost
• Pricey part replacements

In this article, we’ll explore each variable speed air conditioner pros and cons so you can get a better picture of what these systems can offer and if they’re able to meet your cooling needs. 

Let’s get started!

What Are the Pros and Cons of Variable Speed AC Units?

The main highlight of variable speed ACs, also known as variable stage air conditioners, is the fan motor within them. The variable speed AC motor runs at different capacities to provide more precise cooling throughout your home. 

The variable speed technology provides all of these air conditioners‘ benefits, starting with their high energy efficiency. 

Variable Speed AC Pros

Highly Energy Efficiency

Variable speed AC units are some of the most energy-efficient cooling systems in the market. Thanks to their variable speed AC motor, these systems can run continuously at a low capacity and still maintain a desired temperature without consuming a lot of electricity. According to the Department of Energy, “operating fans or compressors at lower speeds for longer periods can lead to reduced total energy consumption.”

All cooling systems have energy ratings, and variable speed air conditioners have some of the highest ratings available. Thanks to their ratings, all, if not a majority of variable speed AC units are Energy Star certified, making them meet criteria set by government agencies that these ACs are energy-efficient. With less energy consumption, you can expect to see energy savings.

Money Saving

Variable speed ACs cost less to operate, so you can run during the hot weather season without worrying too much about your monthly electricity bills. The savings can vary from household to household based on certain factors, such as how often you’re running your AC. 

Thanks to their energy efficiency, variable speed air conditioners cost less to operate, which translates to more savings in your pockets. These savings can accumulate over time, thanks to the long lifespan of variable speed ACs. 

Longer Lifespan

A well-maintained variable-speed air conditioner can last 15 to 20 years. Our technicians have even seen some homeowners with variable-speed ACs that have been in use for over 20 years still cooling their homes.

Plenty of factors can determine the lifespan of your variable-speed AC, but there’s no denying that annual tune-ups and maintenance go a long way toward ensuring its longevity. 

Variable speed air conditioners are made with high-quality parts that can experience reduced wear and tear because they operate under less. All of these parts work together to provide your home with enhanced comfort. 

Enhanced Comfort 

Variable-speed ACs have the added benefit of providing comfort as they blow cool air throughout your home. Thanks to the variable-speed AC motor running at lower speeds, your home will have a more consistent indoor temperature without any fluctuations in cool air. They can provide you with consistent airflow that also helps improve indoor air quality.

Variable speed cooling systems are also praised for their quiet operation. Other AC systems can be heard at start up and while they’re running, but variable speed ACs have reduced noise levels. 

All of these benefits can have a positive impact on you and your home, but variable-speed ACs have a few drawbacks worth noting, which we’ll touch on in the next section. 

Variable Speed AC Cons

High Cost

Variable speed ACs can save you money in the long run, but upfront costs for these systems are high. A variable speed air conditioner unit installation can cost over $30,000.

The cost may shy people away from investing in a new variable speed AC, but the investment is worth the long-term energy savings these systems can provide. Many variable speed air conditioning systems qualify for special tax credit where you can claim 30% of the total cost of up to $600.

Still, these systems are priced higher than other more entry-level air conditioners. 

Pricey Part Replacements

Besides their upfront costs, the parts for repairing a variable speed AC can be costly, too. Since they’re designed to be high-quality, these parts can be pricey to repair when it comes time to repair unexpected issues with your variable speed AC. 

For example, a variable speed AC compressor can cost anywhere from $2,500 to over $5,000. Other parts, like the evaporator coil and AC fan motor, can cost over $1,000, making variable speed air conditioner parts costlier than other AC systems. 

Some manufacturers have proprietary parts that can only be sourced by the manufacturer themselves, making them a little tricky to obtain for repairs. Still, a lot of these types of air conditioners are backed by warranties that may cover parts if they qualify for such repairs. 

Is a Variable Speed AC Worth it?

Variable speed air conditioners are praised by both homeowners and technicians for all of the benefits they can provide despite their very few drawbacks. Even if they have a high cost, rebates are available to offset the price. Plus, the long-term energy savings available make these systems worth it for that alone. 

Whether they are basic cooling systems or variable speed ACs, our technicians at Monkey Wrench are experienced in working with all kinds of air conditioning systems. For almost two decades, we’ve helped homeowners all over Los Angeles and the surrounding areas pair their homes with the best cooling system that meets their needs.

If you’re interested in a variable stage air conditioner and live in Los Angeles or the neighboring cities, contact us using any of the buttons below. You can also book an appointment directly through our online HVAC scheduler.