Variable speed AC units are a revolutionary AC technology that has become popular for Tucson home and business owners in recent years, and for good reason. Unlike their single or dual stage counterparts, which operate on a simple on/off principle for the former and a two speed setting for the latter – variable speed units adjust their cooling output to match the exact needs of your indoor environment.
In this article we will dig into what a variable speed AC can provide you, how they work, the differences between them and other AC units and much more.
As a business or homeowner in Tucson, where summers can be almost unbearably hot, this precision in temperature management isn’t just a luxury – it’s often a necessity.
Tucson is known for its long, hot summers, with temperatures regularly climbing well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable – it tests the limits of air conditioning systems.
The relentless demand for cooling means that AC units must work harder and longer, leading to increased wear and tear and higher utility bills. In this environment, a variable speed air conditioner can make all the difference – both for your bottom line and general comfort.
At Done Rite Services we have over a decade of experience repairing and installing various types of air conditioning systems from single and 2 stage AC units to variable speed ACs, including full installation and replacing broken variable speed AC blower motors and other parts when needed. For those looking to upgrade, we offer professional AC installation services.
When it comes to Tucson’s air conditioning needs, we know it all and guarantee our work. We provide comprehensive HVAC services in Tucson.
Contact us at 520-369-3966 or through the website today for a consultation regarding your HVAC needs and find out what type of unit will work best for you!
Table of Contents
Traditional AC Units – Single Stage
Traditional air conditioning units, commonly referred to as single-stage or fixed-speed AC units, have been the standard in home cooling for decades, especially in areas like Tucson where the demand for indoor cooling is in high demand.
At its core, a traditional AC unit operates on a straightforward principle: a single-speed compressor turns on when indoor temperatures exceed the thermostat setting, and turns off when the desired temperature is reached. The compressor pumps refrigerant through the system to absorb heat from indoors and expel it outside, thus cooling your home.
The cycle repeats as temperatures fluctuate, leading to a pattern of full blast cooling followed by periods of inactivity, commonly known as the “on-off” cycle. For more information on the differences between these systems, you can read our single stage vs two stage AC comparison.
This method of operation is simple but comes with inherent drawbacks that can impact Tucson homeowners both financially and in terms of comfort. One of the primary limitations of traditional AC units is their single-speed compressor, which can only operate at one, full-power level regardless of the actual cooling demand.
These units tend to use quite a bit more energy than a variable speed air handler, which continuously monitors the environment in your home or business and makes adjustments – small or large – to make sure the optimal temperature is maintained.
Variable Speed AC Have Advanced Compressor Technology
The compressor is the engine of an AC unit. In traditional systems, this compressor operates on an all-or-nothing basis, either working at maximum capacity or being completely off. However, variable speed compressors break away from this binary operation.
They can adjust their output incrementally to match the precise cooling needs of the home. This is achieved using inverter technology which alters the electrical supply to the compressor, allowing it to operate anywhere from around 25% to 100% of its capacity.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, is the industry standard for measuring the efficiency of air conditioning units. It represents the cooling output divided by the electrical input over a typical cooling season. Traditional AC units typically have a SEER rating of at least 14, which is the minimum standard set by the U.S. Department of Energy for new air conditioners.
While these units meet federal regulations, they do not offer the same efficiency as variable speed AC units, which can have SEER ratings well into the 20s or even 30s. To find out more about the best places to install these systems, check out our guide on the ideal spot for air conditioner placement.
As a homeowner in Tucson you will likely end up spending more on energy costs with a single or 2 stage AC. Variable speed blower motor HVAC units are far more energy efficient and also have the added effect of keeping a consistent, comfortable temperature in your home or business – so you don’t have to be constantly searching for a remote and regulating temperatures on your own.
Benefits of Modulating Performance
The modulation of variable speed AC units translates directly into benefits for homeowners, particularly in a climate like Tucson’s.
First and foremost, there’s the matter of energy efficiency in today’s economy. Variable speed air handlers not only make life for Tucson homeowners easier and more comfortable – they help to make sure you aren’t taking a hard hit in the wallet.
Variable speed AC units consume only as much power as needed to maintain temperatures, rather than repeatedly powering up to full capacity. As the unit operates more continuously but at lower speeds, it uses less electricity, leading to savings on energy bills.
The wear and tear on a traditional AC compared to a unit with an AC variable speed motor can be significant due to the constant cycling on and off, particularly in regions like the South West, where the demand on the system is high.
This stress can lead to more frequent repairs and a shorter lifespan for the air conditioner, which ultimately means additional costs for homeowners in terms of both maintenance and potential system replacement.
Tax Credits for Energy Efficient AC Upgrades
Note that you can now take advantage of tax credits when you upgrade to energy efficient air conditioners like a variable speed air conditioning unit.
Be sure to talk to us at Done Rite for a breakdown of some of these benefits, and always discuss everything with your qualified tax professional.
Energy Saving Variable Speed AC System
When it comes to home comfort in Tucson, cold air is going to be a factor – and at times having a system that can both heat and cool air is essential. An AC variable speed blower motor will control the amount of air, hot or cold, that comes in and out of your home or business. For reliable HVAC inspection services, our team at Done Rite is here to ensure your system runs smoothly.
There are also units available at Done Rite Services which provide humidity control. Tucson is an incredibly dry environment, so being able to control your humidity level in the home is always good for comfort. Whether you need a replacement air filter, a switch from single or dual stage AC to a variable speed AC unit, or a fresh install on a new property – call Done Right Services at 520-369-3966 or simply get in touch with us through our website and we will be there for all of your HVAC needs! For those interested in more energy-efficient options, we also offer affordable ductless installation.
