What Are Variable-Speed HVAC Systems, and Are They Worth It?

You’ll have no shortage of options when shopping for a new HVAC system. One of them will be to install a variable-speed HVAC system. They’re an HVAC solution with some significant benefits you might not know about. They’re not always the right fit in every home, but they are worth understanding as you approach your purchase decision. Here’s everything you need to know about variable-speed HVAC systems to decide if one’s right for you.

What Is a Variable-Speed HVAC?

As the name suggests, a variable-speed HVAC system can modulate its output based on demand. They accomplish this feat by including a few different components than you’d find in a conventional HVAC. One is a digital or inverter-driven scroll compressor, which allows the system to adjust the pressure and temperature of its refrigerant to more than two extremes. That allows for fine-tuning of exact cooling output based on need. The other component is an electrically commutated blower motor. Those can adjust their speed to deliver different volumes of air into your home as needed.

What About Two-Stage HVAC Systems?

You will also encounter HVAC systems that offer two-stage operation. They’re easy to confuse with variable-speed models because they feature high and low output settings. While that technically represents a form of variable-speed operation, there’s a difference. A two-stage system can’t modulate its output like a variable speed system. It works at full speed or half speed, depending on demand. That makes two-stage HVAC systems much less flexible. Of course, it also makes them less expensive, too.

The Advantages of a Variable-Speed HVAC

Variable-speed HVAC systems have advantages that justify their higher prices. Here are the most compelling advantages to consider.

High Energy Efficiency

The most important advantage of variable-speed HVAC systems is energy efficiency. A variable-speed HVAC uses real-time temperature conditions to determine necessary output. So, it will only deliver the exact amount of heating or cooling your home needs at any given time. That’s important since your HVAC’s compressor and blower fans are among its biggest energy consumers. That means that a variable-speed HVAC will use less energy than a conventional system almost all the time. The only time a variable-speed system loses its efficiency advantage is during periods of extreme heat or cold. Depending on the weather conditions, a variable-speed HVAC can trim your energy use by up to 40%.

Superior Comfort

If you’re used to single-speed HVAC systems, you’ve likely experienced the hot and cold spots they often produce. They also allow the temperature inside your home to fluctuate by several degrees between cycles. A variable-speed HVAC eliminates those problems by keeping your home’s temperature steady most of the time. Variable-speed systems work at maximum capacity when you change your thermostat’s temperature setting. However, they will gradually slow down to maintain that temperature rather than cycle intermittently. The result is more even temperatures throughout your home and the elimination of temperature swings.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Since variable-speed HVAC systems frequently run for long cycles, they do a better job cleaning your home’s air. As the system operates, it pulls in air through its return duct and passes it through an air filter. That removes a significant quantity of dust and dirt on each pass. You can even upgrade the filter in a variable-speed HVAC to help remove more contaminants from your air.

Improved Humidity Control

Although high humidity isn’t always a problem here in Los Angeles, CA, your home may have humidity issues regardless. It can happen if your home is especially well-air-sealed and has high-performance insulation installed. In that situation, a lack of air exchange with the outdoors can lead to indoor humidity issues. Variable-speed HVAC systems can help keep the humidity in your home in check. With each cycle through your HVAC, more excess humidity gets extracted from your home’s air.

Better Integration With Zoning Systems

Finally, variable-speed HVAC systems work exceptionally well when paired with an HVAC zoning system. Those split your home into two or more heating and cooling zones, each with a separate thermostat. A variable-speed HVAC supports a zoning system with its ability to scale its capacity up and down. That way, you don’t waste money running your HVAC at full speed to serve a small part of your home.

The Disadvantages of a Variable-Speed HVAC

If variable-speed HVAC systems were perfect, they’d be in much wider use than they are today. Here are some of the notable disadvantages that come with variable-speed HVAC systems.

High Upfront Cost

Variable-speed HVAC systems are among the costliest HVAC options on the market. You can expect to pay at least twice as much for one relative to a single-speed system. While you will recoup much of the extra cost in energy savings, it can take years to break even, if at all.

More Complex Maintenance

The more sophisticated components in a variable-speed HVAC system mean they have higher maintenance needs than conventional models. That can increase your lifetime cost of ownership relative to a traditional HVAC. It also increases the odds of needing an expensive repair or two at some point in your system’s lifespan.

Requires High-Performance Ductwork

Finally, installing a variable-speed HVAC will often require repairs or upgrades to your home’s ductwork. You’ll need well-sealed ductwork with minimal air leakage to reap the maximum efficiency benefits. Plus, your ducts may require insulation upgrades to prevent condensation formation inside them. That can happen because variable-speed HVAC systems often run at low speeds for extended runtimes. If the temperature differential outside the ductwork is too great, it can allow condensation formation.

How to Decide if a Variable-Speed HVAC Is Right for You

Deciding whether a variable-speed HVAC is a good option for you comes down to a few factors. The obvious one is price. A variable-speed HVAC won’t be a good option if you’re working with a tight budget. Also, you shouldn’t consider a variable-speed HVAC if you have plans to move within the next 15 years. That would virtually guarantee you won’t recoup the added cost of a variable-speed system. However, it’s hard to beat a variable-speed HVAC if you’re looking for maximum comfort and maximum energy efficiency.

Your Trusted HVAC Specialists

Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric has been a local leader in the HVAC industry in Los Angeles since 2007. We offer comprehensive HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance services. We can also handle all your home’s electrical and plumbing needs. Our team of experienced HVAC technicians, plumbers, and electricians have the latest training. Our team has the skills to guarantee that any job gets done right the first time. We’re also certified by The Seal, which signifies we’re licensed, insured, and background check our employees. We even offer financing options on approved credit, which can be helpful when purchasing a new HVAC system. So, when the time comes for a new HVAC for your Los Angeles home, call our experts at Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric immediately!