I really don't understand the hot and cold room situation. My thermostat never deviates more than one degree from the setting. It sounds like a thermostat issue, or maybe an insulation issue. A variable speed compressor still uses a thermostat to control when it comes on or off.

As you are aware, single stage units are like a light switch, either full On or full Off. A variable speed inverter system can be full On and full Off and 80 steps in between. I don't understand this 100% but what they are claiming is since the variable speed runs longer and slower once the house is at the set temperature, this gives all the rooms in the home enough time for the temperature to equalize better. That's the principal and I know from people who have these systems that this is indeed the case and a more comfortable house. You also get the benefit of better air filtration because of the longer slower run times.

As far as zoning, in my home in NY where we had a basement and two levels it made a lot of sense to have multiple zones but here in the Villages since all the homes are single level and not that big except for the premier homes, I don't think you save much only cooling the bedroom and not the rest of the home for example, since at night the AC load is minimal And in the winter you want the whole house to be at a certain temperature when it gets close to freezing since the extremeties of your home will be colder than the core. Just my opinion on that topic.

Once I get my variable speed system I'll report back on the pro's and con's that I see.

People should understand that only about 5 percent of new units being sold today are variable speed, they are very expensive, more difficult to repair, and you will never recover the cost. If a variable speed unit would make my house more comfortable, I might buy one, but I don't think it would. Personally, I think that many people who buy these expensive units do so because a salesperson exaggerates the benefits. Do your own research.

Can you explain why a heat pump needs 80 different steps of cooling to keep a house at the proper temperature? Why would it use step 20 at one time and then change to step 60 for another time? Whatever of those 80 steps is being used, it will be the same for all rooms in the house, if you only have one zone. As I have said, my house temperature never deviates more than one degree from the thermostat setting in any room at any time.

As I am sure you know, a heat pump runs most efficiently when it is running continuously. So a system would use step 20 on a cooler day and 60 on a warmer one. In both cases running the unit continuously.

It is amazing that your whole home never deviates more than 1 degree (F) from the thermostat set temperature. That is such a tiny number. You have only one thermostat so you must keep a thermometer in every room in order to know that. and you must really fine tune the dampers as the heat load differs from room to room. But I am just speculating. Regardless, congrats on having an incredible home. In my house the temperature in the corners of the house differs by more then 1 deg F from the temperature at the thermostat.

Soft starts significantly reduce the startup up noise and increases the lifespan of the compressor and adds another layer of protection to power surges.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDp1g8r8IVs&t=70s

Personally, I am not sure how a variable speed heat pump is programmed. Apparently, you are saying that the run speed is based on the outside air temperature? If so, there must be other factors involved. Summers in The Villages seem to have consistently high temperatures in the 90's, so there is not that much deviation in outside temperature when you need cooling. I would also point out that, if you have temperature deviations throughout the house, a variable speed heat pump will not solve that problem. The heat pump can only try to satisfy one thermostat regardless of at which speed it is running. So, if your thermostat is set to 75 degrees, that is what you will get at the thermostat, regardless of whether you have a single speed or a variable speed heat pump. Also, regarding efficiency, I don't agree that running a heat pump continuously is the most efficient method in terms of electricity usage. It takes very little electricity to start a heat pump.

Plenty of YT videos of how to replace a capacitor. Make sure it is American Made.

Well that used to be the case. From my recent experience the other day the cost of the newer variable speed units such as the Carrier Infinity is only a couple thousand more than the basic single speed units after the instant rebates that carrier is currently offering and the $2,000 federal tax credit. So, a typical single stage 16 SEER system is costing approximately $9,000 and the 22 SEER Variable speed is costing me $13.5K in the 4 ton system. Smaller units will be cheaper. This includes 10 year parts and full labor and if the compressor fails in the 10 year period, Carrier gives you a whole new condensor unit vs repair. All in writing. Apparently Carrier is fairly confident in the longevity and failure of the system to offer the 10 year parts and labor so inexpensively. In addition, you are looking at a 15 or 16 SEER system and moving to a 21 or 22 SEER system with a significanty more efficient heat rating down to -13 meaning at 30-40 degree weather we have here the system will be still running at high efficiency compared to the heat pumps we have now that struggle at 30-40 degrees. So, you will be saving a significant amount on electricity. Not enough to pay for the whole system but if you can save at least $50/month over 10 years thats $6,000 so if you add the $6,000 to the basic unit and its the same or close enouth to the Variable speed system you will save enough in electricity to cover the increase in cost. Some people say they were saving $100/month but I'll have to see what I actually save. It doesn't matter how expensive these units may be to repair if you have the 10 year parts and labor. After 10 -15 years you will be planning on replacement anyway so you are covered. As far as getting more comfort? That's what they say should happen and some here have reported a more comfortable home environment with the variable speed vs the single stage units. I'll let you know how I feel about this but given the technology it should be better, for sure in humidity and air purification. What is happening right now, and I don't know how long it will continue is with the new freon, many are scared to change so they are repairing instead of replacing. Manufacturers want you to purchase the newer more efficient units so they are offering steeper rebates to bring the cost down closer to traditional systems in an effort to get you to purchase the more expensive system. From recent research on the new freon, systems did increase in cost about 5% from last year but the newer systems are slightly more efficient so you may make up some of most of that increase in energy savings. In addition, HVAC systems are planned to go up an additional 5% for the next couple of years for all kinds of reasons so if you are planning on replacing your system, now may be a good time given all the rebates and credits.

I also found if you are a Duke energy customer, not Seco, you get an additional $1,000 rebate when installing one of the Carrier Infinity systems. Seco doesn't seem to be offering rebates.

Are you saying that buying a variable speed HVAC system is the cheapest way to go over time? If so, I have to disagree.

What I'm saying is right now, with all the rebates and tax credits, if you take into account the energy savings even on the low end of $50/month over 10 years, the cost for a variable speed unit will be the same or close to the basic single stage units, enough to pay for the additional cost of a better unit meaning, better air purification, better humidity and temperature control and quiteness. When you go to the Carrier web site and look under tax credits, they are only for the Infinity and most of the high efficiency mini-split systems meaning there are some conditions on which units qualify for the federal tax credit. There may be other conditions for other manufacturers.

You are getting into some fine detail here that I don't know for sure. I don't think the speed it set directly by outside air temperature, I think it is set indirectly by it according to demand. If the thermostat is asking for cooling constantly it will increase the speed. If it asks for cooling less because the house isn't heating up so fast, it will reduce the speed.

Yes, the set point at the thermostat is what you will get regardless of single, multistage or variable speed. Its only a matter of whether the control system is bang-bang (off/on) or proportional.

I think the premise behind multi-stage or variable speed unit is that they are indeed more efficient. To the extent that you are correct then there would be no advantage beyond the ability to zone more easily.

I agree that speed control is preferable for energy efficient humidity control. Fan speed slows for increase in dehumidification. Hopefully the new controllers are sophisticated enough so that reheat is rarely required. That being said, a very well insulated home will do ok on humidity with a single stage compressor.

Another advantage of a variable speed is that the motor will last much longer since it will no longer experience the thousands of across the line starts which results in large spikes in current flow every time it starts. Also on average the running current will be lower. Of course it will be on longer but net stress on the motor will be far less.

Downside is that there are more components to fail, primarily the variable speed controller but that will be much much easier to replace than a compressor.

I copied this from one of the HVAC reviewers. Good high level explanation.

>>>>
How Does a Variable Capacity Heat Pump Work?
A variable capacity heat pump operates by adjusting its output to match the specific heating or cooling demands of your home. Instead of running at full blast or completely shutting off like traditional single-stage systems, it modulates its output. Think of it like the accelerator on your car: instead of just two options—full throttle or nothing—you can ease into the speed you want. This ability to adjust the heating or cooling capacity incrementally ensures the system runs more efficiently and keeps your home at a consistent, comfortable temperature.

Variable capacity heat pumps use advanced technology to continuously monitor the indoor temperature and the outside conditions. Based on this data, the system makes minute adjustments to maintain optimal performance. By running at lower speeds more frequently, it not only conserves energy but also reduces wear and tear on the system itself. This results in greater efficiency and a longer lifespan for your heat pump.

Are Variable Speed Heat Pumps Worth It?
In a word—yes. Variable speed heat pumps are absolutely worth it, especially if you’re looking for more than just basic temperature control. Here’s why:

Energy Efficiency – Because the system adjusts its speed and capacity, it uses less electricity than systems that cycle on and off all day. This can lead to significant energy savings on your utility bills.

Comfort – With a variable speed heat pump, you’ll experience fewer temperature swings. Instead of blasting cold or hot air intermittently, it maintains a steady, comfortable indoor environment.

Longevity – Since the system doesn't constantly cycle on and off, it undergoes less strain over time, which means fewer repairs and a longer operational life.

Quiet Operation – These systems tend to operate more quietly because they’re often running at lower speeds. The days of noisy HVAC systems kicking on and off are behind you.

So, if you value comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings, a variable speed heat pump is a sound investment.

What is Variable Capacity?
Variable capacity refers to a heat pump's ability to modulate its output based on the specific heating or cooling requirements at any given moment. Rather than running at a fixed capacity, a variable capacity heat pump adjusts to provide just the right amount of heating or cooling to meet your home’s needs.

In simple terms, if it’s a mild day, the heat pump will run at a lower capacity. On extremely cold or hot days, it can ramp up its output to keep your home comfortable. This flexibility makes it far more efficient compared to systems that run at full power regardless of the actual demand.

What is the Difference Between Variable Capacity and Variable Speed?
The terms variable capacity and variable speed are often used interchangeably, but they refer to slightly different aspects of the system’s operation.

Variable Speed refers to the compressor’s ability to adjust its speed. A variable speed compressor can run at different speeds based on the demand, rather than operating at just high or low settings.

Variable Capacity focuses on the system’s ability to adjust its overall output. It’s more about how much heating or cooling the system provides, rather than how fast it runs.

Both technologies work hand-in-hand, allowing the system to modulate its operation for maximum efficiency and comfort. In essence, variable speed controls how the system works, while variable capacity controls what the system provides.

Final Thoughts
A variable capacity heat pump isn't just a trend—it's a smart solution for homeowners who want more control, better efficiency, and improved comfort. When you pair this technology with the flexibility of variable speed, you get a system that works smarter, lasts longer, and keeps your home comfortable in any season. If you're considering upgrading your HVAC system, a variable speed heat pump might just be the game-changer you’re looking for.
<<<<<

To whom are you responding?

Do these people not understand that you can "fine tune" your air flow by partially closing some vents (in the cold rooms) and leaving the warmer rooms wide open?

It is also beneficial for humidity control. On very humid days, the temperature may be at setpoint but the humidity may still be too high.
With single stage control the programming will bring on the heaters which will increase the compressor runtiime and raise your electric bill.
With variable speed it lowers the fan speed so that the air spends more time traveling through the cooling coils increasing the dehumidification rate. The heaters will probably never be used for dehumidification.

In other words:
Enhanced Dehumidification
When temperatures are at their highest outside, once your home is comfortable, it is more energy efficient for the HVAC system to dehumidify the air rather than air conditioning it and decrease the temperature. A variable HVAC option removes up to 400% more moisture than a standard system. This means less cycling, longer run times, and optimized compressor and blower speeds.
Why does variable speed air conditioning make sense?

As I understand it, most units in The Villages do not have a reheat function for dehumidification. The only way to reduce the humidity is to use an optional thermostat setting that overcools the house (about 3 degrees below the temperature setting) when the humidity is too high. I never use this setting because I never really experience high humidity in the house, and I don't want to overcool the house. You are correct that, if the variable speed heat pump runs at a slower speed, it will reduce the humidity by running longer.

I agree that most homes don't have dehumidification controls. In my home though sometimes the temperature is at setpoint and it still feels too humid so I lower the temperature setpoint. It is a minor inconvience that I can live with.

I believe that reducing the cooling effect of the compressor will not help humidity control. Reducing the fans speed is the method to increase dehumidification rate.
To Remove More Moisture, Lower Airflow Speed | ACHR News

All these discussions seem to have some people on one side favoring the single speed heat pump as they believe a unit that runs all the time at 100% unless it is off doesn’t save on electricity over variable speed units.This is their belief but they have no experience to base their assumptions on. They also believe parts are hard to get and the comfort profile isn’t better with the 75-80 variable speed heat pumps. Guess what. This discussion would be a non issue if these different heat pumps cost the same. I will admit that spending $3000 more upfront is not easy, but in my case the system is so quiet and comfortable as the air slowly moves throughout all the rooms. No cold or hot spots. I could never go back. Then people say you never get your money back. How do they know? I will get my $3000 extra back in 7 years. (Saving $35 a month in electricity)

Thanks for the honest feedback on your system. This thread, I believe, is showing how many here in the Villages tend to shy away from anything new and the thought process the old tried and true is always better. I think if we all had that thought pattern we would all be driving old cars without any electronics if we could. Another problem is with HVAC systems, many don't have or can understand the technology, so they rely on the HVAC contractor to make their decisions, which is fine but although many HVAC contractors here in the Villages are honest and reputable, they only know what they know right? Depending onthe size and breath of their business you are getting an opinion on when to repair or change and when changing, what to go with. I agree when variable systems first came out about 10 years ago there were lots of issues that needed to be worked out but now it's a fairly mature technology with a lot of benefits. My opinion is a reputable HVAC contractor should lay out all the options with all the facts when a customer is looking to replace and then let them decide since everyone has different needs and situations. As far as repair, although an experienced HVAC contractor will have a good idea on how long your system may last given it's age and history, it's only a guess. One school of though is repair until it drops so the HVAC contractor makes the most money on repairs. Another is replace so they make their money up front and can service more customers. No right or wrong, just the way it is. Always remember, if you unit fails unexpectantly and it's in the hot season, you may be without AC for a while and at the end of the day when you sell your home the HVAC system is going to be a significant factor on whether you get your price or not. Anyway, thanks for your post on your personal experience with one of these Variable speed inverter systems.

I installed an EasyStart whicy significantly reduces the noise upon start and extends the life of the compressor. I installed it myself but most people should get a tech to do it.

Why Every Homeowner Should Consider Installing an AC Soft Starter | Micro Air Easy Start Install
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDp1g8r8IVs&t=301s

Obviously there is some truth in what you are saying, but "the old tried and true" has a much longer track record to judge against. If you are of the age to move to the Villages, as most all are, you have certainly experienced the change in what used to be truly "durable goods", like furnaces/AC, stoves, refrigerators, hot water tanks, washers/dryers etc. Growing up these items LASTED. Furnaces/AC could go 20+ years, stoves forever, refrigerators well over 10 years (I sold my grandparents 1940 fridge a few years back after 70 years of perfect use!). Hot water tanks routinely lasted well over 10 years; washers/dryers over 10 years as well.

Now, due to plan obsolesence, most hot water tanks have a 6 year warranty, as well as all the other appliances with a 1 year/5 year parts warranty now. And these things simply do not last HALF as long as they used to as they are no longer made to do so. Guess all I am saying is that the impression is that NEWER, for some, means less reliable.

Good points. The construction industry is very resistant to changes. One reason is that they have been burned. Do you remember the polybutylene pipe lawsuits, and the aluminum wiring lawsuits? Houses are still constructed using 2x4 wood studs, drywall, and asphalt shingles. Personally, I can accept newer designs, but when I replace a major item in my house, I consider the impact of having something fail and the availability of replacement materials and the labor to install it. One reason that I would not buy a variable speed heat pump is that it only represents about 5 percent of the new replacement market. If it was 50 percent, I might buy one. To me, the potential benefits do not outweigh the tried and true system. I know that I can get a single stage heat pump repaired almost immediately in The Villages, which is very important when you have no air conditioning. My opinion.

I don't disagree that they don't make things like they used to. My point is, when your HVAC system does need replacing, you will have a choice of a single stage, multi stage or variable speed inverter system. All three systems will not be built like they used to. So, given that, if you can get the more capable variable speed system vs the single or multi-stage system for the same or slightly more money why wouldn't you do that? Especially if there is small higher cost that can be recovered in a couple years from the energy savings. Considering you are getting full parts and labor for 10 or 15 years on all three systems means the manufacture believes all three systems will last about the same length of time so even if one system is more complicated than the other so it will fail more often the manufacture doesn't believe so and you are covered. I do know that most of the larger HVAC companies servicing the Villages do stock these variable speed systems now so you can probably get one in a day assuming the technicians are available.

Interesting, I've been looking at those, was there room to install inside the unit.

A little worried it could void the 10yr parts warranty?

Varable speed compressors are almost as common as single stage in new installations. (commerical and residential).
I agree there are more means of failure but most can be repaired and on average they last significantly longer than single stage.

Staged compressors
Electrical Stress:
High inrush current puts thermal and magnetic stress on windings and contactors, which can lead to insulation breakdown over time.
Mechanical Stress:
Sudden high torque causes shock loads on mechanical components (compressor shaft, bearings, mounts).

North America HVAC Compressor Market Size Report, 2030

If installed properly it significantly reduces probablilty of failure and that would be a benefit for the insurer. It also has limited protection for spikes in voltage.

I would contact the contractor who installed it. It can be a DIY but they may have reservations.

///

I would take issue with your first sentence, especially in The Villages.

Market Share:
While precise market share figures are hard to find, the market for variable speed heat pumps is growing. A 2021 J.D. Power report suggests that variable-capacity central equipment represents only about 5% of central HVAC equipment sales, indicating a larger share for single-speed and two-stage systems. However, the growing focus on energy efficiency and comfort is expected to drive further adoption of variable speed systems.

I would too if it was based on my expertise but I provided a link to a very credible source. I don't think businesses would be installing VSCs if they were more prone to failure. And most importantly the life of the compressor will be extended. In most cases when the compressor fails the whole unit has to be replaced.

North America HVAC Compressor Market Size Report, 2030

Here is a quote from your source:

"The majority of household heating and cooling systems use single-stage scroll compressors. They have just one speed and are the most basic and cost-effective product."

If you are saying that, in The Villages, varable speed compressors are as common as single stage compressors for new and replacement installations, I cannot agree. Also, the vast majority of existing HVAC systeme in the Villages, that often need to be serviced or repaired, are single stage compressor units.

I thought it was clear that I was referencing the overall commercial and residential markets as noted in my attachment. I will be more explicit next time.

There is no right or wrong choice. They both have there advantages and drawbacks. A variable speed offers improved comfort since it can provide superior humditity control and eliminates the startup noise that many find annoying. Also there is no blast of hot air every time the unit kicks on.

I agree that the warranty could indeed be affected. The Carrier warranty does not specifically address a soft start device, but it does say that any modifications to the unit must be authorized by Carrier. I would definitely not install this device on a Carrier compressor that is still covered by a 10-year parts warranty. I watched the video, and you actually need to remove the condenser cover plate and modify the wiring. If the compressor fails, I doubt that Carrier would honor the warranty.

I agree that the variable speed units offer some advantages and they are most likely the wave of the future. My comments are strictly related to the current residential market, the cost, and the repairability of the different systems. As of today, I would prefer the "tried and true" approach. I'll let someone else experiment with the new-fangled equipment.

Variable speed units have been around for decades. In most cases they will last much longer than standard induction motors and provide better energy efficiency and temperature control.

https://www.achrnews.com/ext/resourc...hite-Paper.pdf
Variable Speed’s Impact on HVAC | 2017-02-06 | ACHRNEWS | ACHR News
The Scoop on Variable Speed Motors - Lee's Air, Plumbing and Heating
https://www.hvac-talk.com/threads/va...ility.2219493/
VSD vs fixed speed - Atlas Copco USA

I know they are not new, but they have not sold well in the residential market in this area. My only point is that, when I replace an essential item in my house, I tend to go with the standard product being used in the community. That way I know I can get it serviced or repaired easily. Obviously, the standard compressor used in The Villages is a single stage compressor. The Villages builder has installed thousands of them. This would apply to roofing, a water heater, and other construction items. But I don't have an issue if someone wants to buy a variable speed compressor.

If your home has very good insulation, I believe the best option is a single stage compressor with a soft starter. I am very pleased with mine. It provides another layer of protection from electrical faults and the reduced inrush current will significantly extend the life of the compressor.

The target market for these devices is RV's since they have concerns of tripping circuits if the starting current exceeds peak limits.

You should have your contactors and capacitors replaced at least every 10 years. It only takes minutes.