Difference Between Variable And Multi-Speed Blowers
Difference Between Variable And Multi-Speed Blowers
A modular blower is a great investment for facilities to keep the indoor environment comfortable and ensure maintained airflow throughout. Normally, there are three types of modular blowers; Traditional, Multi-Speed, and Variable Speed. If you are not familiar with these, don't worry. In this article, we will talk about what these different types of modular blowers are and which one you should pick between them.
What are the different types of blowers?
1 - Fixed-Speed Blowers
These traditional blowers have been around for years now. They operate at only one speed, meaning that they move the air with the same force.
The reason why they have been around for many years is because they are simple to manufacture and require minimal maintenance. However, this basic design also has some disadvantages. Firstly, they are very inefficient. Regardless of how much air is required, these blowers only work at full speed, taking a huge toll on fuel and power. Secondly, they also fail to maintain indoor temperatures because they can either be turned on or off, which means either they will provide air at full speed or would not provide any air at all.
2 - Multi-Speed Blowers
Because of the given limitations of Fixed-Speed Blowers, HVAC blowers have become more sophisticated in recent years and now can operate at multiple speeds. A multi-speed blower features two/three different fan speeds, which allow users to have more control over cooling or heating and create better airflow in the facility. A multi-speed blower also consumes less energy to run and translates to significantly lower energy bills.
3 - Variable Speed Blowers
Over time, even more sophisticated circuit boards are created for blowers. The most advanced blower technology to date is Variable speed blowers. They use an HVAC motor that can operate at varying speeds, depending on the requirement. These more advanced blowers start quietly, ramp up slowly to meet the required indoor temperature, then fade gently into the background. They provide the best climate control, air quality, and circulation possible by constantly monitoring your space and making necessary adjustments. They operate at the slowest speeds possible, helping save energy and repairing costs due to the wear and tear of the unit. Furthermore, they also come with filters that ensure improved air quality.
Why installing a Variable Speed Blower is a better option than a Multi-Speed Blower?
Due to their electronically commutated motor (ECM) or variable speed motor, Variable Speed Blowers offer several advantages, such as low total electricity consumption, and maintained adequate airflow throughout the system. Other great benefits include:
1 - Less Noise
These blowers rarely reach their top speed and mostly operate at low speed, they tend to produce less noise near the blower assembly. Furthermore, due to their low speed operation and low pressure, they also do not produce any whooshing or whistling noise in the air ducts.
2 - Less Energy Use
Installing a Variable-Speed Blower can dramatically reduce your energy bills majorly because unlike traditional and multi-stage blowers, these modular blowers do not run any faster than necessary. Although these blowers tend to run for longer than their counterparts, yet they reduce the energy consumption of your HVAC system because the system does not keep turning on and off.
3 - Better Air Circulation
Another major reason why you should consider investing in a Variable Speed Blower is because it can help you with high levels of humidity in your facility. Unlike other blowers, these blowers run on a low speed, ensuring that the air spends sufficient time in the HVAC system's dehumidifier. This allows the dehumidifier to remove more moisture from the air, resulting in a more pleasant indoor environment.
Choosing the right size of a Modular Blower
Determining and choosing the right size of variable and multi-speed blowers is critical. Here are some of the steps you can take to determine the size you need:
- Determine the square footage of your facility
- Figure out your climate zone for heating
- Determine the tonnage required for AC
Our Recommendation
Goodman 2,000 CFM Modular Blower is one of our best-selling blowers for HVAC systems. This modular blower offers variable speed with ECM Motor, which is compatible with ComfortBridge. It also provides constant CFM over a wide range of static pressure conditions independent of the duct system and has a CFM indicator. Goodman 2,000 CFM Modular Blower can be installed in the attic, basement, or closet, making it a good pick for most types of facilities. Like all other products from Goodman, this blower is ETL, AHRI, and ISO certified, and on top of that, it comes with a 5-year-long warranty for all parts.
Buy Modular Blowers From ProServices Supply
Browse our extensive range of Goodman modular blowers. If you're not sure which unit you should invest in, contact one of our HVAC experts to discuss your case. They will help you determine the best variable and multi-speed blower for your facility's HVAC system and your budget.
