What is Variable Speed?

Variable Speed is generally used to describe the blower motor of the furnace. However, some manufactures are adding variable speed inducer motors to their furnaces as well.

In regards to the blower motor, a variable speed motor or "smart motor" has the capacity to operate at lower power levels to use up to two thirds (2/3) less electricity of a normal blower motor. For example, at lowest speed, it can operate at 65 watts where as a normal blower motor generally operates at 500-600 watts.

Besides saving energy, these motors constantly monitor the system and adjust their speed to provide the optimal comfort level. There are several areas of your system these motors monitor and adjust for. These are: temperature, humidity, and air distribution.

Another benefit of the smart motor is that the operation is much quieter when compared with that of normal blower motors.

Lennox: Why Chooise a Variable Speed Furnace for my home? (120 KB)