What Are The Pros And Cons Of A Variable-Speed Air Handler?

Are you considering upgrading your air conditioner? A variable-speed air handler can make a huge difference in the comfort of your home. But before you choose a model with a variable-speed air handler, let’s go over all of its pros and cons.

Variable-speed air handlers respond to their environments by operating at various speeds based on the current temperature and desired temperature. Some of the pros of variable-speed air handlers are their efficient and precise temperature control and their energy savings. A couple of variable-speed air handlers are the high upfront cost and increased maintenance costs compared to single-speed air handlers.

Are you interested in learning more about variable-speed air handlers? Want to be well-informed before deciding whether or not to upgrade your air conditioner? Read on for in-depth lists of all the pros and cons that come with variable-speed air handlers.

An air handler is the unit that holds your air conditioner‘s blower fan. The air handler’s job is to draw untreated air into the system. Once inside, it treats the air by removing heat and humidity. Then, the air handler pushes the treated air back into your living space.

There are two main types of air handlers: single-speed and variable-speed. You’ll usually see single-speed air handlers in cheaper air conditioners. Meanwhile, variable-speed air handlers are typically a sign of a higher-quality air conditioner.

A single-speed air handler only operates at 100%. Either it’s turned off, or it’s blowing full blast–there’s no in-between. This can cause “cold spots” in your house. It can also increase energy costs.

On the other hand, a variable-speed air handler reacts to the temperature in your home and adjusts accordingly. It can work at various speeds. Most variable-speed air handlers can function at anywhere between 25% and 100% of their full capacity.

The motor in a variable-speed air handler adjusts incrementally according to real-time data. It responds directly to the actual cooling demand, quietly starting the cooling cycle.

As time goes on, variable-speed air handlers increase their output to evenly cool the entire home. Once your desired temperature is reached, the output is reduced to maintain the temperature within one degree.

With single-speed air handlers, you’ll often run into temperature swings. With variable-speed air handlers, that’s not an issue, thanks to their steady and consistent temperature control.

Another benefit of variable-speed air handlers is that they run very quietly. In fact, many people who own this type of air handler never hear it running at all! This is because, unlike single-speed air handlers, variable-speed air handlers don’t run on full blast whenever they’re turned on.

If you have a single-speed air handler, you’ll hear it turn on and off constantly. The sound of the fan is also sure to become an annoyance. This reason alone is often enough to make people want to switch to a variable-speed air handler!

Single-speed air handlers constantly turn on and off, and when they’re on, they function at 100% capacity. This on-off cycling and running at full blast can put quite a bit of strain on the equipment. In fact, this can cause the system’s components to wear out and need to be replaced somewhat frequently.

But variable-speed air handlers are much more durable than single-speed options. They run at low capacity for longer periods of time. This isn’t as likely to strain and wear out the equipment.

The main negative point when discussing variable-speed air handlers is their price. Compared to single-speed air handlers, they’re more costly to purchase and install. However, their higher upfront price is typically offset by their energy savings, which can lower your electric bill.

The average variable-speed air handler will cost you between $1000 and $3500. Add installation costs, and you’re looking at an additional $1500 on average.

To compare, a single-speed air handler typically costs between $500 and $1000. Installation is generally a bit cheaper as well. Still, these costs, while lower upfront, may actually be higher in the long run. This is because using a single-speed air handler generally results in higher electric bills due to the system’s inefficiency.

Related Questions

Are variable-speed air handlers worth it?

Experts usually recommend variable-speed air handlers over single-speed options. This is because they’re much more efficient, quiet, and precise. They do have a higher upfront cost, but they’ll provide energy savings in the long run.

What does a variable-speed air handler do?

A variable-speed air handler adjusts its output according to the temperature in your house. Unlike a single-speed air handler, it doesn’t function at full blast anytime it’s turned on. Instead, it can respond to the environment by functioning at the appropriate level.

What controls a variable-speed air handler?

Variable-speed air handlers contain ECM blower motors. These electronically commutated motors allow the variable-speed air handlers to operate efficiently.