Many advanced features allow furnaces to perform more efficiently and make your home more comfortable. One of these features is a variable-speed blower motor, which allows the fan to move air at different speeds depending on heating demands at the moment. The ability to control airflow more precisely with a variable-speed furnace comes with five key benefits:
- Energy efficiency: With the ability to run the variable-speed furnace on a lower speed most of the time, you conserve energy. The furnace also runs on longer cycles so it kicks on and off less frequently. This prolongs the equipment’s life and saves you even more money in the long run.
- Heating efficiency: Along with better energy efficiency comes better heating efficiency, or a higher AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). A higher AFUE percentage means less energy escapes up the chimney, which is better for your wallet as well as the environment.
- Zoning controls: A zoning system allows you to control heating independently in different areas of your home. A variable-speed furnace is a good complement to a zoning system, whether your goal is to achieve the same temperature in every room or different temperatures in various spaces.
- Air quality: With longer cycles, more air travels through the media air filter installed in the ductwork. This filter traps airborne pollutants and helps keep the air in your home clean.
- Comfort: The lower fan speeds accomplished with a variable-speed furnace allow your home to maintain a steadier temperature. Smaller temperature swings mean you feel more comfortable between furnace cycles. Slower fan speeds also make less noise, which helps you tune out the blower motor more easily and enjoy peace and quiet in your home.
These five significant benefits of a variable-speed furnace should belong to everyone. If you’re upgrading your furnace soon, seek out this feature for lower energy bills, more zoning possibilities, better air quality and improved overall comfort. Learn more about advanced furnace features by contacting us at Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning today. Our experience serving customers in the Twin Cities metro area dates back to 1974.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about variable-speed furnaces and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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