Multi-Speed vs. Variable Speed Furnaces
Back to BlogOh, the weather outside is frightful, indeed. Temperatures are dropping. Snow is on its way – if it hasn’t already arrived, that is. If you’re thinking about upgrading your Warner Robins, GA home’s furnace – and keeping Jack Frost outside where he belongs – here’s a look at two energy efficient options to choose from to meet your heating needs: multi-speed and variable speed furnaces.
1. Two Stage Furnace
A traditional single stage furnace operates in either “on” or “off” mode. When there is a demand for heat, whether small or large, the furnace kicks in at its maximum capacity. This is like trying to cook an egg on your stove with the flame either completely off or all the way on – not very efficient.
A multi-speed furnace, however, has two different settings that it operates on. For the most part, an estimated 80 percent of the time, it runs on its lower setting. If there is an additional demand for heat, such as during severe drops in temperature, this type of furnace will then switch to its higher setting to provide additional heating power and energy efficiency.
Two main advantages to this type of furnace are maintenance costs and fuel savings. Maintenance costs, in general, are fairly low. You will also see an improved efficiency in fuel as well. Since it adjusts its heating output based on the demand for heat, it is more fuel efficient, saving you money.
2. Variable Speed Furnace
Another type of energy efficient heater is a variable speed furnace. The term “variable speed” refers to the blower motor in the furnace. This intelligent technology allows the blower to adjust its output speed incrementally based on the heating demands of your home. Not only does this technology provide consistent heat output, it can also be useful in situations when your ducting becomes blocked or otherwise obstructed.
Fuel and electrical efficiency, heating consistency, noise reduction, and cleaner air are all benefits of this type of furnace. The blower motor uses less electricity than other types of motors. The consistency of heat output is another important factor to consider. Rather than operating in an “on/off” fashion like a single stage, or on a “high/low” setting like a multi-stage, a variable speed furnace provides precise heat output based on exactly how much heat your home needs.
Two more advantages to this type of furnace are result of how the blower works. Since a variable speed blower starts of slowly and increases output gradually, they generally create less noise. Also, the blower continues to circulate air even when there isn’t demand for heat. This means that the air in your home is continually being passed through the filtration system, improving the air quality as well.
Choosing the Right Furnace for Your Home
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact our knowledgeable staff at Conditioned Air, Inc. Our heating installation specialists will be happy to assist you in finding a heating installation solution that’s right for you.