Compressor Speeds and What They Mean
Many central air conditioning systems boast “variable speed” compressors, or “two stage” compressors. Have you ever wondered what the difference was between them? And where do single-stage compressors fit in as far as efficiency is concerned? It can all be overwhelming, especially when you’re stopping for a new central air conditioning system on your own! But, with the right amount of knowledge you’ll be able to make the right decision when it comes to purchasing a new high-efficiency air conditioning system for your home. So, let’s take a look at the compressor speeds and what they mean!
Single Stage
Single stage compressors were the AC standard for decades and continue to represent the majority of air conditioning systems. A single stage compressor turns on when the indoor temperatures exceed the temperature setting on your thermostat. These compressors always operate at 100% capacity, turning themselves on and off continuously throughout the day.
Variable Speed
Variable speed compressors work differently in that in order to maintain an indoor temperature set on your thermostat, they operate continuously at less than 100 percent capacity – often as low as 25 to 30 percent. As a result, their cycles last longer than those of a single stage compressor, sometimes even running for all or most of the day. These systems are also ideal for humidity control, as they run for a long enough time in order to draw sufficient moisture from the air inside your home and remove it.
Two Stage
The two stage compressor falls in between the single stage and variable speed compressors, and offers two levels of cooling power: high and low. It runs at full capacity when it’s needed and lower when it isn’t so it doesn’t run as continuously as variable speed compressors, but do cycle on and off less frequently than single stage systems.
To sum up…
Single-stage compressors fill your home with cold air and shut off completely whe the desired temperature is reached, using more energy and lacking the ability to dehumidify the air inside your home as well as a variable speed compressor. Variable speed compressors, however, blow a steady stream of cold air into your home to maintain the desired temperature, rarely turning off completely.
Luckily, with Sound Energy you can get new, high-efficiency central air conditioning equipment from top manufacturers that support variable and two-stage compressors to keep your home cool without breaking the bank. Call or contact us online to find out more.
