Heat pumps are highly efficient for both heating and air conditioning. According to the Department of Energy, heat pumps provide conditioned air for about one fourth of the cost of traditional units. They are efficient because they use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat. In the summer, heat is extracted from the air inside and moved outside of your Lubbock, TX house. In the winter, heat energy is extracted from the outside and moved in. The direction of the refrigerant is reversed by flipping a switch.
Variable speed motors and 2-stage compressors create even better efficiency. Studies indicate that multiple-speed technology can save up to 40 percent on energy costs.
Variable Speed Motors Explained
Traditional air conditioners operate at one speed, full blast, until reaching the temperature on the thermostat. They then turn off until a temperature change starts the cycle again. Two-stage compressors operate at two speeds, high and low. When there is a smaller demand, the unit uses less power by running at lower speed. Two-stage compressors run at the lower speed approximately 80 percent of the time. When temperatures rise, the unit powers up to meet demand.
Variable speed compressors run between 25 and 100 percent of capacity in response to cooling or heating needs. With both 2-stage and variable speed systems, the compressor uses less energy to start, and there is less cycling on and off. Units run longer but use less energy.
Improved Comfort
Multiple-speed units achieve and maintain precise temperature settings. The result is improved comfort and better humidity control. With longer run times, more moisture is withdrawn from the air, increasing comfort. Longer run times also result in more air filtration, which improves indoor air quality.
Bruce Thornton Air Conditioning provides commercial and residential air conditioning and heating services, including new installations, 24-hour emergency service and preventive maintenance. Our more than 50 years of service in Lubbock, TX and nearby communities gives us the experience to know what systems work effectively in the area. Call (806) 589-1014 to find out more about how multi-stage heat pump technology can keep you comfortable and save money.
