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Single Speed vs Variable Speed Motor

Single Speed vs Variable Speed Motor

When you are in the market for a new furnace motor you may be wondering what the advantages and disadvantages would be in choosing a single speed vs variable speed motor. A single speed furnace uses a PSC motor whereas a variable speed uses an ECM. To determine which one best fits your needs it is important to understand the main differences between them.

Single Speed Furnace

Single speed furnaces have only one stage of heat output – high. A single speed furnace uses a PSC motor or a permanent split capacitor. This type of motor is designed to turn on and off; it is not programmable and there are no speed variances that can be controlled. Although they are low cost to install, they are not the most efficient type of motor or the quietest. It constantly operates by dispersing the maximum amount of heat it is designed for when on. This can result in costly energy bills because every time the furnace is turned on it is dispersing the most amount of heat at a constant speed using constant energy.

Variable Speed Furnace

With a variable speed furnace, rather than working in an on or off mode, the blower automatically adjusts to different speeds to control the amount of heat dispersed throughout the home. This type of furnace uses what is called an ECM or electronically commutated motor. Having an ECM results in better electrical efficiency, heating consistency, air quality, noise reduction and lower energy bills. An ECM motor will gradually come on and gradually increase to meet the settings set by the thermostat resulting in a quieter unit. The advanced technology of an ECM can correspond to the units need for air flow and can account for things such as dirty ductwork or filter and furnace location. Furthermore, even when not on it can operate to circulate the air throughout the home constantly passing the air through the air filter resulting in better air quality. Compared to a single speed furnace, a variable speed furnace is more effective at drawing moisture from the air further improving indoor air quality and comfort. Simply put, better air circulation provides better balance of temperature and humidity control and a higher level of comfort. This in turn can eliminate the need for the furnace to operate often since the air is being distributed throughout the home and can result in lower energy bills.

LA Construction Heating and Air is a certified HVAC Contractor. We would be happy to assist you with any questions you may have in deciding which furnace would be best for your home or business. Feel free to contact us online or give us a call today at (818) 341-3406. To learn more about services our company offers, please visit our homepage.

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Air Conditioning Installation

Tired of your AC system conking out on you at the worst moments? Fortunately, we have been operating in the Los Angeles area for years and can install virtually any type of AC system in your home, office or commercial space. Selecting the proper residential and commercial air conditioning systems combined with proper HVAC installation will ensure optimum performance and efficiency.

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Heating Installation

We specialize in installation of new and replacement of existing furnaces of all major brands and models.  Let our heating specialists help you reduce your heating costs and choose the right furnace products. Our years of experience and many satisfied customers in Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley is your assurance that we can help you. All our furnace installations are covered by our warranty.  Call us today and we will provide you with a free estimate.

Air Conditioning Repair

At home or at your workplace, there's always the potential for sudden HVAC operating failure and the need for immediate HVAC repair. We'll put you back into the comfort zone ASAP. Our technicians are experienced, EPA certified, trained, background checked, drug tested, Workers' Compensation insured, uniformed, professional, and honest. They will diagnose your system and provide you with a written estimate for repairs.

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Heating Repair

Our furnace repair technicians are trained and equipped to handle a majority of required furnace repairs right on the spot. First of all, the service technician will evaluate your furnace, determine it's age, inform you if your unit is still under manufacturer's warranty and present you with a written estimate for repairs.

Air Quality

Whether you're at home or at work, your health and comfort can be affected by poor air quality. And, the air quality is affected by the air temperature, the humidity, the quality of ventilation and any contaminants or irritants like indoor pets, pollen, dust mites, cleaning products, lead, Formaldehyde and Asbestos, Poor Air Flow, mildew and mold. Poor air quality can cause more than slight discomfort - much more!

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Maintenance

As Benjamin Franklin said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Same idea applies to your central heater and air conditioner maintenance.Think of it as an oil change for your auto, which improves your car's engine performance, maximizes your gas millage and minimized down time by avoiding unnecessary repairs.

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