3 Reasons To Choose A Dual-Stage Or Variable-Speed AC

If you already have a single-stage AC, you may not even think about the other options available when you purchase your next system. Before you make your purchase, consider picking either a variable-speed or dual-stage AC to improve efficiency and make your home more comfortable. Here are some things that you need to know before opting for a new AC system installation.

Efficiency

The lure of both variable-speed and dual-stage ACs is they are more efficient than a single-stage system. With a traditional AC, your system is either on or off, without any in-between functions. A dual-stage system is the next step up in terms of efficiency because the system can run at a low or high level when it is on. Variable-speed will be the most versatile since it can work at more than two speeds. This set-up is especially useful in climates that are more varied. You may have days that are too warm to go without the AC, but it is unnecessary to run the AC at full blast. If the AC is capable at running at a slower speed, you will have adequate cooling with less of a rise in your utility bills.

Comfort

The way different types of units cool your home can also improve comfort. A single-stage system goes on and off frequently, so you can experience more indoor temperature swings. Sometimes it may seem impossible to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. Dual-stage and variable speed systems are better at maintaining the indoor temperature, especially the latter. A variable speed system does not turn on and off as frequently as its single-stage counterpart and cools your home slowly. This allows the system to maintain more consistent temperatures. Similarly, this system is better at handling high humidity since it stays on longer. People in humid climates will appreciate the humidity control, since less humidity will also make the air feel cooler, even when the indoor temperature may be higher.

Air Quality

Any system that runs longer has other benefits, such as improvement of air quality. As mentioned, the lower humidity associated with a dual-stage or variable speed system can reduce issues with mold or vermin that prefer humid spaces. The abrupt on/off nature of single-stage systems also means less air passes through the air filters, so more environmental allergens are left to circulate throughout your home. When the system is on longer, more of these allergens have a chance to be captured by the filter and not trigger allergies or asthma. You may find with a dual-stage or variable speed system, you need to be more diligent about changing your filters since they can become dirty quicker in some households.

Before buying your next AC, consider the benefits of either a dual-stage or variable-speed system. The superior efficiency and comfort over a single-state system makes them worth the investment.