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Compressor Types: Single, Two-Stage, Variable-Speed

July 17, 2024

Variable-speed compressors are one of the most recent products in residential air conditioning. It’s a huge leap forward for getting the perfect indoor temperature most efficiently. And if you’re wondering “What’s the difference between single-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed compressors,” here’s the simple answer: Variable-speed compressors are the better choice. 


But you weren’t looking for the simple answer, were you? Let’s talk about why it’s the better choice. 


Understanding Traditional Air Conditioning 

Single-stage compressors are the most basic type, offering only one level of operation: high. This means they run at full capacity whenever they are on, cycling on and off throughout the day. 


Single-stage compressors blast your home with cold air and turn themselves off when they reach the temperature setting on your thermostat. For example, if you set the thermostat to 75 degrees, the air conditioner will run anytime indoor temperatures hit 76 degrees. After the AC cools the house back to 75 degrees, it will turn off again. 

 

There’s also a two-stage or dual-stage compressor that provides two distinct levels of operation: high and low. This allows for more efficient and flexible cooling compared to single-stage systems. A two-stage unit runs at full capacity when you need it to and at a lower level when you don’t. Two-stage units don’t run as continuously as a variable-speed AC, but they do cycle on and off less frequently than single-stage systems. 


Basics of Variable-Speed Air Conditioning

Variable-speed compressors work differently. To maintain an indoor temperature that matches the setting on your thermostat, they operate continuously at less than 100% capacity – often as low as 25% or 30% capacity. As a result, they run for much longer cycles than single-stage AC units. In the summertime, they might run for all or most of the day! 


At this point, you’re probably thinking, “It’s hot out there! Why would I want an air conditioner that runs longer and cools my home slower?” 


Well, a variable-speed compressor’s longer run times dehumidify your home more effectively than the short cycles of a single-stage unit. One of the biggest problems with single-stage compressors is that they’re not running continuously. Relative humidity increases whenever the AC isn’t on, making you feel hotter and more uncomfortable. 


Most people deal with this problem by lowering the temperature on their thermostat, which brings us to the other benefit of variable-speed compressors: cost. 


The Cost of Comfort

A single-stage compressor blasts your home with cold air before it turns itself off. Then it turns on again when the indoor temperature increases. Most of your air conditioner’s electricity draw occurs when it turns on, not while it’s running. In the summer, a single-stage compressor turns on and off a lot, known as “short cycling.”  Short cycling can become an issue when it is above 95 degrees outside and you’re gaining heat about as fast as your A/C can remove it. 


Since single-stage compressors have short cycles, they draw a lot more electricity than a variable-speed unit that turns on and stays on (at a low speed) for hours. They also don’t dehumidify indoor air very well, forcing you to lower the temperature setting on your thermostat. As a result, the single-stage AC is much more expensive to operate! 


Two-stage compressors don’t turn on and off nearly as much. They’re more efficient than single-stage units, but not as efficient as variable-speed compressors. Variable-speed air conditioners run continuously, dehumidifying the air inside your home.  As a result, you feel comfortable at higher temperatures and don’t have to set your thermostat so low. And since they don’t turn on as often, variable-speed AC units lower your energy bill. 


 

Are There Other Benefits? 

Believe it or not, more effective cooling and greater efficiency aren’t the only benefits of a variable-speed compressor. 


If you’re concerned about indoor air quality, opting for a two-stage or variable speed unit can help purify the air circulating your home, resulting in healthier conditions for you and your family. Since they dehumidify indoor air more effectively than a single-stage unit, a more efficient system helps you eliminate mold growth in bathrooms and kitchens, prevent dust mites, and create conditions that aren’t suitable for insect intruders. 

And since variable speed units run more frequently, they also filter your indoor air more effectively. More air is cycled through your return ducts – and your air filters – resulting in a lower volume of air contaminants.  According to the American Lung Association, the average American spends 90% of their time inside, and 62% of that time inside their own home.  Having cleaner air inside your home for yourself and your family is essential. 


Nowadays, you can look beyond “keeping cool” and improve many aspects of home comfort, all through your choice of air conditioning equipment. Variable speed technology is a big reason why. 


Looking for guidance on the best air conditioner for your Lincoln area home? Whether single-stage, two-stage, or variable speed, our team can help you choose the right system. Contact Custom Cooling and Heating today to find the right fit for you. 

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Furnace Problems? What to Check When It’s Not Working

December 24, 2024
When the temperatures drop, a broken furnace can quickly turn into a major headache. Before calling for professional help, there are a few simple checks you can perform to potentially identify and resolve the issue. Here are some common furnace problems and what you should check when it’s not working. 1. Check the Thermostat The thermostat is the control center for your furnace, and often, furnace issues can stem from a simple thermostat setting or power issue. Here’s what to do: Ensure it’s on and set to “Heat”: Double-check that the thermostat is powered on and set to the heating mode. Check the temperature setting: Make sure the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. Replace the batteries: If your thermostat uses batteries, low power could cause it to malfunction. 2. Inspect the Power Source Your furnace won’t work if it’s not receiving power. Take these steps to make sure it’s properly connected: Check the circuit breaker: Look for any tripped breakers in your electrical panel and reset them if necessary. Examine the furnace switch: Many furnaces have a dedicated power switch near the unit. Ensure it’s in the “On” position. 3. Replace the Air Filter A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing your furnace to shut down or operate inefficiently. Follow these steps: Locate the air filter, which is usually near the return air duct or the furnace itself. Check if the filter is dirty or clogged with debris. Replace the filter with a clean one, ensuring it’s the correct size and type for your furnace. 4. Check the Pilot Light or Ignition System If you have a gas furnace , your furnace uses a pilot light, which needs to stay lit for the system to function. For newer models with electronic ignition, the ignitor may need troubleshooting. Here’s what to check: Pilot light: If it’s out, carefully follow your furnace’s instructions to relight it. If it won’t stay lit, there could be a problem with the thermocouple. *Most furnaces that are older than 35 years will have a standing pilot light and thermocouple. Ignition system: For electronic ignitions, you may need to reset the system or call a professional if it’s not sparking properly. *Most furnaces that are 30 years old and newer will have an ignition system that either sparks or glows to light the pilot or burners. Try shutting the power off and turning it back on to reset the system and the furnace will try the ignition sequence again. 5. Ensure the Furnace Door is Secure Many furnaces have a safety switch that prevents them from operating if the access door isn’t properly closed. Ensure the door is securely latched. 6. Look for Blocked Vents or Registers Blocked vents can disrupt airflow and cause your furnace to stop working or overheat. Inspect all vents and registers to: Make sure they’re open and unblocked by furniture or other objects. Remove any visible dust or debris obstructing airflow. 7. Examine the Furnace’s Drainage System If your furnace is a high efficient model that vents to the exterior with PVC pipe, then the condensation from your furnace needs to drain properly. A clogged condensate drain line can trigger safety mechanisms that shut down the system. Check: For water pooling near the furnace . If the drain line is clogged or frozen and clear it if necessary. 8. Examine the Furnace’s exhaust pipe If your furnace is a high efficient model that vents to the exterior with PVC pipe, then the pipes may be covered by a snow drift or be frosted over outside. You can check the type that vent out the sidewall and clear the area as necessary. If your furnace termination vent is on the roof then leave that inspection for a professional as roof access is dangerous, especially during the winter. Once the exhaust and inlet pipes are clear, please shut the power off to furnace and turn back on to reset the control board and re-start the ignition sequence. 9. Listen for Unusual Noises Strange noises can signal specific problems: Banging or rattling: Could indicate loose parts or lack of airflow due to plugged filter or vents. Whistling or squealing: Might point to airflow restrictions or a worn blower belt. Grinding or metal on metal scraping: combustion blower/inducer assembly may be failing, or blower motor / assembly may be failing. While these checks can help address minor issues, some furnace problems require professional attention. If you’ve gone through this list and your furnace still isn’t working, it’s time to call the experts. Expert Furnace Repairs and Installations in Lincoln, NE At Custom Cooling and Heating, we understand how important a functioning furnace is during the colder months. Our experienced technicians are ready to diagnose and fix any HVAC issue to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable. Contact us today for prompt and reliable service!

Ultimate Guide to Heating and Cooling Your Garage Year-Round

November 27, 2024
Your garage is more than just a place to park your car or store tools—it’s a versatile space that can serve as a workshop, gym, home office, or even a hangout spot. But whether you're working on DIY projects, exercising, hosting friends, watching your favorite game, or simply using the space for extra storage, one thing is clear: comfort matters. If you've ever found your garage too cold to work in during winter or too hot in the summer, you know how important it is to have a climate-controlled space. Here’s your ultimate guide to heating and cooling your garage year-round. Why Should You Heat and Cool Your Garage? Before diving into the best systems and methods, let’s look at why it’s beneficial to regulate the temperature in your garage: Year-Round Comfort: Extreme temperatures can make a garage feel uninhabitable during certain months. Heating your garage in the winter keeps it usable for projects, hobbies, or even parking your car. Cooling it during the summer ensures a more comfortable space for work or relaxation. Protecting Your Equipment: Sensitive tools, electronics, and vehicles can suffer damage from extreme temperatures. Heating and cooling help protect your investment by keeping everything in good working condition. Keeping items from freezing, having a climate-controlled space for pets, and stored items from sweltering heat are all great reasons to heat & cool a garage space. Increased Home Value: A climate-controlled garage adds usable square footage to your home. Whether you’re using it as a living area, home office, or storage space, a comfortable garage can increase the overall value of your property. Energy Efficiency: Modern heating and cooling systems are more energy-efficient than ever. With the right equipment, you can save on energy costs while still maintaining a comfortable environment. Best Heating Options for Your Garage When it comes to heating your garage, you want a solution that’s effective and cost-efficient, without wasting energy. Here are some of the best heating options: 1. Space Heaters For smaller garages or quick spot heating, portable space heaters can be an affordable option. They’re easy to move and store and come in both electric and propane varieties. However, they may not provide even heating across larger spaces. 2. Electric Garage Heaters Electric garage heaters are an excellent option for consistent heat. They come in wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted versions and are designed to provide steady warmth without taking up much space. Look for models with adjustable thermostats for better control over your garage’s temperature. Pros: Easy to install, low maintenance, no need for gas lines or venting, safe to use indoors. Cons: Can be more expensive to operate than gas-powered heaters. These units typically take a larger 240V circuit which may be difficult to install in a finished garage. 3. Gas Heaters For larger garages or more intense heating needs, a gas-powered heater might be your best bet. These systems are capable of heating bigger spaces faster and more efficiently. Options include natural gas or propane models, both of which require proper ventilation. Many installations are using a low-profile unit heater like a Modine Hot Dawg . Pros: More energy-efficient for larger spaces, lower operating costs compared to electric heaters. Cons: Installation can be more complex, requiring gas lines and venting. 4. Infrared Heaters Infrared heaters provide heat by directly warming objects and people in their path, rather than heating the air. These are great for spot heating and will quickly raise the temperature around you, making it ideal for a garage that doesn’t need to be uniformly heated. Infrared heaters can be purchased in electric or gas (natural or LP) models. Pros: Energy-efficient, fast heating, no need to heat the entire space. Cons: May not be the best option for large, open garages. Ventless infrared heaters are also against code in many municipalities. 5. Radiant Floor Heating Radiant floor heating involves installing electric or hydronic heating systems beneath your garage floor. This option provides consistent heat by warming the floor and allowing the heat to rise into the space. While it’s more expensive to install, it offers a luxurious level of comfort, particularly in cold climates. Pros: Even heat distribution, comfortable, energy-efficient in the long run. Cons: High initial installation costs and must be completed before concrete is poured.
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