What Is a Variable Speed Furnace? And Can It Help You?

If you’re in the market for a new furnace, you may have probably come across the term variable speed furnace while doing your research. What difference will this premium system make in your home in comparison to the single-stage and multi-speed furnace? Read on to find out everything you need to know about variable speed furnaces.

How Does a Variable Speed Furnace Work?

The terms single-stage, multi-speed, and variable-speed refer to the indoor blower motor of a furnace. A single-stage blower runs on or off without any in-between speeds. It works at its fullest capacity whenever it’s running, wasting energy in the process. A multi-speed blower motor has two different operating settings.

A variable speed blower motor runs at different speeds to provide the precise heat output that your home requires at any given time of the day or night. This implies that a variable speed furnace is better at controlling the airflow throughout your house in line with your desired comfort level.

The Benefits of a Variable Speed Furnace

By controlling airflow better, variable speed blower motors provide the following benefits:

• Efficiency. A variable speed furnace typically uses two-thirds less electricity. As a result, it can reduce your energy bills significantly.
• Improved air quality. When the furnace is set to “fan” mode, the variable-speed blower motor will keep circulating air slowly. That will allow the air filter to trap more airborne contaminants. Variable speed furnaces are, therefore, an excellent option for people with allergies or respiratory disorders and for houses with pets.
• Less noise produced. Variable speed blower motors have a gradual start-up process, which eliminates the noisy blast that standard motors normally produce. As a result, they offer quieter operation.
• Zoning. Variable speed blower motors are great for zoning, letting you easily customize comfort in the different parts of your home.

A variable speed furnace costs more than a multi-speed and single-stage system. However, the greater operational efficiency, exceptional comfort, cleaner air, and lower noise levels make the furnace worth the additional cost. To learn more about variable speed systems, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We help Lorain homeowners install, maintain, and repair their heating and air conditioning equipment.