When you're in the market for a new HVAC system, you should seriously consider investing in a product that features a two-stage compressor. Compared to a conventional single-stage compressor, a high performance two-stage compressor can save you money and headache over the long term.
The Compressor Is The Heart of the Condenser
First, what is a compressor? A compressor is a key part when it comes to moving the heat around an environment. The compressor increases the pressure of the refrigerant passing through it, so that refrigerant can then release its heat through the condenser coil. It's kind of like a heart pumping blood. If the blood were a refrigerant gas and the oxygen was heat.
In any case, a good compressor is key to getting the best performance from any air conditioning technology.
Why a Two-Stage Compressor?
A two-stage compressor is both more durable and more efficient than a regular compressor. To make a long story short, a two-stage compressor can run the HVAC system at reduced capacity to handle most system heating and cooling needs. This is great for spring and fall when you need a little bit of heating or cooling, but not a lot of both.
When it gets really hot (or cold), a heat pump with a two-stage compressor can ramp up performance to meet demand. As that demand falls off, it can flip back into single-stage mode to steadily maintain comfort and efficiency.
Why Does A Two-Stage Compressor Matter?
A single-stage compressor can only run one way to meet any heating or cooling demand. It has to run full speed no matter if its cooling your home by a single degree or a dozen. During certain seasons this can translate into a lot of rapid, start-stop operation. Start-stop operation is very tough on your compressor.
By contrast, a two-stage compressor has less friction-inducing start-stop operation, since it can run its reduced-capacity stage instead of going full speed all the time. This also saves money and cuts down on wear and tear. Plus, you don't have to sacrifice any comfort, since the two-stage compressor can always run both stages to meet high demand.
A Two-Stage Compressor Is Good For Humidity Too
As an added side benefit, two-stage compressors can reduce interior humidity even better than a single-stage unit. Couple them with a variable-speed air handling unit for maximum benefit.
Bottom Line
When you’re in the market for a new system, it’s worth your long term dollar to get one with two-stage compressor technology. If you have questions about these or other HVAC products, let us know in the comments below, on Facebook, or on Twitter.
