When upgrading your air conditioning unit, one of the primary components you should consider including is a variable speed unit. The air handler in your AC is part of the components that dictate the system’s efficiency and your overall comfort level. According to research, variable speed air handlers offer higher energy savings, improved humidity control, and better comfort.
Understanding the Role and Working of Air Handlers
In an AC, the evaporator, compressor, condenser, refrigerant, and coils are all in the business of absorbing heat from your home and then releasing it outside. The air handler on the other hand is the only component that moves air through your home. The operating efficiency of your AC system is dependent on the quantity of electricity it takes in to help it move heat around as well as the electricity the air handler uses to push air through your home.
In a standard AC system, the air handling component operates at full capacity to deliver air into your home. That being said, it’s also important to note that when the cooling load of your home is much lower, there isn’t much air that is needed. This is where the variable speed handler comes in to solve the problem. This handler just as its name suggests is able to adjust its speed so as to meet the cooling load of your home.
There is no on and off cycling when it comes to the variable air handler. All it does is to start up at full speed to bring your home to a comfort level and thereafter it regulates its speed and brings it to a slightly lower level without shutting off. By operating at lower speeds and avoiding stops and starts, the handler saves energy.
Efficiency and Comfort
Compared to the standard units, air conditioning systems that are fitted with a variable speed handler, cost about 30% more. However, the added expenses are considered a worthwhile investment due to the lessened wear and tear, energy savings, as well as the increase in comfort. Because it runs longer with a much lower output, a variable speed handler helps in getting out the humidity and balancing your indoor environment.
Tangible Benefits of Variable Sped Air Handler
There are a number of benefits you will enjoy if you invest in an AC with a variable speed handler. Among these benefits include:
- Peak Efficiency – In bypassing the full speed operation seen in the standard AC units, systems upgraded with variable speed handlers saves so much in electricity irrespective of whether it is summer or winter.
- Reduced Noise Levels – ACs with variable speed options are less noisy and their cycles are quiet and often unnoticeable. This is a plus for homeowners.
- Better Air Quality – With the continuous operation, more air goes through the HVAC system and this result into cleaner and better quality air inside your home.
In addition to the above benefits, variable speed air handlers also serve to put humidity under control. Contact a HVAC professional near you to help you in this and boost the comfort of your home!