Is a Variable-Speed System Worth It for My Pacific Northwest Home?
What is an adaptable HVAC system?
An adaptable heating and cooling system adjusts its output as needed to meet changing temperatures in your home. That means it won’t simply turn on and off. Instead, it makes precise, minute adjustments while heating or cooling, which allows it to run longer at lower speeds and more efficiently than traditional single-speed systems.
At Day & Night, our online directory of Day & Night dealers can put you in touch with a reliable HVAC company to recommend the best variable-speed HVAC system for your heating and cooling needs. Our network of reliable contractors serves homeowners and businesses in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.
Our directory members frequently hear from customers about variable-speed systems. With so many choices on the market, they’re asking if a variable-speed HVAC system is worth the investment.
We believe it is. Let’s break down what a variable-speed HVAC system is, how it works, and why it is a wise choice in the Pacific Northwest.
What is a Variable-Speed HVAC System?
A traditional, single-speed HVAC system operates by turning on and off. It achieves the desired thermostat setting, shuts off, and turns on again when the thermostat detects a change in temperature. Its blower fan, which sends heated or cooled air into the air ducts, operates at a single speed, turning on and off in sync with the system.
A single-speed system operates at capacity regardless of your heating and cooling needs. Although these systems work just fine, they can use more energy than necessary.
A variable-speed system operates at a capacity of 25 to 100 percent. It makes continuous, minor adjustments to the compressor and fan speed to maintain your desired temperature.
Day & Night likens its variable-speed, inverter-driven air conditioners and heat pumps to cruise control on a vehicle, and one-speed systems like a driver in stop-and-go traffic.
Variable-speed systems “operate in longer cycles and make many small variations to work more efficiently and deliver continuous comfort.” They adjust to changing conditions, which enables them to maintain efficiency and comfort more effectively.
Day & Night’s modulating furnaces are similar to multi-speed heat pumps and air conditioners in that they also adjust output to provide the precise amount of heating needed. The furnace’s modulating gas valve adjusts the amount of gas burned, and a variable-speed blower motor fine-tunes the fan speed.
This combination ensures heat is delivered quietly and continuously, not in stop-and-go bursts.
Variable-Speed HVAC Benefits
Living in the Pacific Northwest, whether in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, or Montana, means dealing with diverse climates. Variable-speed systems easily respond to changing temperatures while providing these benefits:
Energy Efficiency: The system operates at slower speeds during mild weather in spring and fall. It uses far less electricity than a single-stage unit that repeatedly starts up and stops in response to the thermostat setting. In extreme cold or heat, the system ramps up to capacity.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) states that a variable-speed motor running continuously at half speed uses 25 percent of the power needed to move the same amount of air as a single-stage system that cycles on and off.
Consistent Comfort: A variable-speed system maintains consistent indoor temperatures, which is especially beneficial for homes with multiple floors or open layouts.
No Noise: Lower speeds result in quiet operation. You may only notice a steady, gentle hum when you listen for it.
Indoor Air Quality: Your variable-speed system runs longer, continuously circulating air to maintain optimal conditions. More air flowing through the system’s filter means cleaner indoor air, which is especially helpful for allergy sufferers, pet owners, and anyone living in wildfire-prone areas.
Longer Lifespan: Variable-speed units typically last longer than one-speed units that constantly stop and start.
Humidity Control: The system’s ability to run for longer periods at lower speeds in cooling mode is the key to better humidity control. The cooling coil can remove more moisture from air that moves slowly and steadily through the system.
Is Variable-Speed HVAC Worth the Investment?
Variable-speed HVAC systems typically cost more upfront than single-stage systems. However, the savings on your monthly utility bills, coupled with the improved comfort and lifespan, often make it a worthwhile long-term investment.
For Pacific Northwest homeowners, the climate flexibility, energy savings, and year-round comfort that variable-speed technology offers make it a smart upgrade.
Upgrade to a Variable-Speed System Today
Whether you’re building a new home in Bend, upgrading your HVAC in Spokane, or replacing a failing system in Bozeman, Day & Night can help you find the best team for your HVAC needs. Our online directory lists certified Day & Night dealers throughout Oregon, Washington, Montana, and Idaho.
Ask a Day & Night dealer how a variable-speed HVAC system can transform your home’s comfort. Click on our Find a Dealer link.