Quote:
Originally Posted by retiredguy123
I would point out that single stage compressor units will also qualify for the Federal tax credits, based on the SEER rating. A variable speed system will cost about 50 to 70 percent more than a single stage system. You will never recover that initial cost with electricity savings. As far as availability of parts, I think that there are so many Carrier single stage units in The Villages, that a large Carrier dealer can probably get the needed parts without even needing to order them. The poster who was waiting for 4 months needed a proprietary circuit board for a specific variable speed compressor. I doubt that any dealer would keep something like that in stock.
One other thing. When your house needs to be cooled, do you really want the compressor to run slower? Other than a possible humidity benefit, I want the compressor to run at full speed and cool down my house. Also, a variable speed compressor is only more efficient if it is programmed correctly, and serviced periodically.
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Variable speed systems get a significant tax credit compared to any other system because single or multi-stage systems don't come close in efficiency. As far as keeping parts in stock, variable speed systems are so common place now that companies have to stock them. I know many like "simple" and that's fine but do some research on variable speed systems and you will see why they are better for both cooling and heating. They save a lot of money when we do need heat here in the Villages since the newer systems generate heat efficiently all the way down to 0 degrees and some even lower so at 30-40 degrees they are very efficient compared to what the builder gave us. Simple is a single stage unit no arguement. Multi stage is a nightmare and I wouldn't get one of those. Variable is relatively simple inverter technology that is pretty main stream these days and the cost will come down more over time as it already has.