It’s no secret that Northwest Arkansas can get hot and humid in the summer. If you’re thinking of replacing your A/C, a two-stage cooling system is a great choice to save energy while keeping cool and combating the humidity.
What is two-stage cooling? Two-stage just means that the compressor in the A/C has two settings, the full-on setting and a lower one. Standard A/C systems usually feature a compressor that only operates at the top speed. It’s either chilling air at full blast or it’s off, which means it’s “short-cycling,” or turning on and off frequently. This can waste energy, stress parts and lead to uneven cooling in your home. A compressor can only remove humidity while it’s running, so a standard A/C that only runs in short bursts can really let the humidity build up, which makes the house feel even warmer.
How does two-stage cooling work? In two-stage cooling, the compressor runs on its lower setting most of the time, generating a constant, low level of cool air and constantly sucking excess moisture out of the house. During the hottest part of the day, when more cool air is needed, the compressor will kick on the high setting for as long as necessary, and then maintain the temperature with the energy-saving lower setting. Because two-stage compressors work to avoid the big temperature fluctuations in the house, they don’t have to work as hard to keep you comfortable and cool. Adding a programmable thermostat to the mix creates even greater energy savings with less hassle.
What are the benefits of two-stage compressors? Here’s a quick run-down of the top benefits:
- Increased energy efficiency
- Increased adaptability to outside or inside conditions
- Better comfort
- Better humidity control
- Longer service life
- Quieter function than standard A/C systems
For more information on how a two-stage cooling system can keep you comfortable and dry this summer – and potentially lower your energy bills – please contact us at Paschal Heat, Air and Geothermal. We’ve been taking care of northwest Arkansas communities since 1968.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Springdale, Arkansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about two-stage cooling and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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