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Single Stage AC vs Two Stage AC

single stage ac vs two stage ac

Deciding to buy a new air conditioner can be a difficult process. We understand it can be overwhelming since there are many different types and models out on the market which can make it hard to choose the right one for your home.  All air conditioners work the same way. A coil inside the indoor unit removes heat while the outdoor coil exhausts the heat outdoors. Where it can get more complicated is choosing between single stage AC vs two stage AC.

What is A Single Stage Air Conditioner?

A single stage AC is the most basic type of air conditioner it only has one operational mode either on or off. There is no in-between for single stage air conditioners. Whether you call for it to cool by 1 degree or 20 the AC will run in full capacity mode until the set temperature is reached. When the set temperature is reached the compressor will turn off until the temperature rises again and the cycle begins again.

Single Stage AC Pros

Some of the reasons why so many homes use single stage AC:

- Low initial price. They are less expensive than two-stage models.

- Single stage ACs will still cool your home properly, as long as they are sized properly and installed correctly.

- Faster installation

Single Stage AC Cons

Some cons to consider when purchasing a single-stage AC:

- Less efficient than 2 stage AC models. They run at full capacity on mild and extreme heat days leading to higher energy bills.

- Modern AC systems tend to run more quietly, but the constant start and stop can be bothersome to some.

What is A 2 Stage AC?

Unlike the single stage AC, a two-stage AC has two operational modes – high and low capacity based on how much cooling your home needs. On exceptionally hot summer days, the AC will run at high capacity, but on milder days it will run on low mode making it more efficient. When the system is in low mode it runs for longer periods of time it leads to much more even temperatures throughout the home. Furthermore, the lower level also reduces the overall load on your system which can lead to a longer lifespan.

Two Stage AC Pros

The main advantages of purchasing a two stage AC are:

- More efficient than single stage AC since they spend about 80% of their time on low mode resulting in energy savings.

- Less noisy since it will most often run on low mode.

- More even temperatures. They bypass the usual on-off cycle which allows them to avoid the temperature swings common with single stage ACs.

Two Stage AC Cons

Two stage ACs also have some drawbacks:

- Higher cost. If on a budget single stage ACs would be a better option.

- Bigger and heavier AC systems, making them difficult to install if you do not have adequate space.

Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air

In learning about single stage AC vs two stage AC we hope you have more of an understanding of which one may be better for you and your home. There isn’t always a best option but there are better options more suitable for you. The most important items to consider are budget, size of home and cooling needs. If you are ready for AC replacement, give us a call today or contact us online, we offer free consultations and are here to help you.

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Our Services

Air Conditioning Installation

For AC installation, our certified team ensures a professional and seamless AC replacement process. We perform a detailed load calculation to select the perfect AC unit for maximum energy efficiency. We handle everything from ductless mini-split systems to full HVAC system installation, guaranteeing a quality AC installation service that keeps you cool and saves you money. Learn more

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Heating Installation

We provide expert heating installation and furnace replacement services. Our certified technicians perform a thorough load calculation to recommend the best and most energy-efficient furnace installation. We manage every detail of your new heating system installation, from start to finish, to deliver a high-quality, reliable, and professional heating installation service.
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Air Conditioning Repair

At home or at your workplace, there's always the potential for sudden HVAC operating failure and the need for immediate HVAC repair. We'll put you back into the comfort zone ASAP. Our technicians are experienced, EPA certified, trained, background checked, drug tested, Workers' Compensation insured, uniformed, professional, and honest. They will diagnose your system and provide you with a written estimate for repairs.

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Heating Repair

When your heating fails, our team provides prompt and professional heating repair and furnace repair. We are experts at diagnosing and fixing a wide range of issues. We offer fast emergency heating repair to minimize your business's downtime, delivering reliable heating service that ensures your system runs safely and efficiently all winter. Learn more

Air Quality

Whether you're at home or at work, your health and comfort can be affected by poor air quality. And, the air quality is affected by the air temperature, the humidity, the quality of ventilation and any contaminants or irritants like indoor pets, pollen, dust mites, cleaning products, lead, Formaldehyde and Asbestos, Poor Air Flow, mildew and mold. Poor air quality can cause more than slight discomfort - much more!

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Maintenance

As Benjamin Franklin said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Same idea applies to your central heater and air conditioner maintenance.Think of it as an oil change for your auto, which improves your car's engine performance, maximizes your gas millage and minimized down time by avoiding unnecessary repairs.

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