The basic technology of refrigeration in HVAC systems dates back many decades. But even if the fundamental scientific processes in home heating and cooling haven’t changed much over the years, today’s systems are quite different from their predecessors in two important regards: comfort and energy efficiency. There are several new technologies that are responsible for keeping your home at a consistent, comfortable temperature while also saving you money on energy bills.
Smart Thermostats
Programmable thermostats have long been known as energy savers. They allow you to set your system to an ideal temperature during times when you’re at home and awake. Studies have shown that programmable thermostats can save from 5% to 8% on energy bills. But these same studies found significantly greater savings with smart thermostats, which can lower energy costs by as much as 16 percent. Smart thermostats also allow you to adjust your home’s temperature remotely via smartphone or Internet-connected device.
Improved Motors
Variable speed motors represent a highly efficient departure from older blower motors that ran at a constant speed. Variable speed motors constantly monitor the data coming from your HVAC system and precisely adjust the speed of airflow automatically. This saves energy during times when your system doesn’t need to work as hard to heat or cool your home, and precise control of airflow creates a better balance of temperature and humidity.
Compressor Technology
Some air conditioners still use a single-stage compressor that runs on only one setting: full blast. A modern 2-stage compressor allows a system to run at a low setting, which in most climates is around 80% of the time, and only ramp up to a high setting during extremely high temperatures. The 2-stage compressor offers clear advantages for both energy efficiency and a system’s ability to keep a home at its most comfortable.
If it’s time to upgrade your older HVAC system and you would like to learn more about energy-efficient systems, take a look Air Specialists Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. online or give us a call. In Missouri, you can reach us at (573) 212-8731 and in Illinois, call (217) 280-4125.
