Choosing an Electronically Commutated Motor Ensures Savings

The variable-speed, electronically commutated motor (ECM) incorporated in today’s HVAC air handlers represents a major advance in performance and efficiency. Unfortunately, most existing systems incorporate the old permanent split capacitor (PSC) blower motor that operates at only one speed, consuming excess electricity as well as providing inconsistent interior comfort. While a PSC blower is either on or off, an ECM unit supplies a varying range of air capacity according to pre-programmed limits or in response to commands from a smart controller that senses the heating and cooling requirements of the home.

Here are some of the advantages of upgrading to a new system that includes advanced electronically commutated motor technology:

• Unlike the on/off PSC units, ECM blowers run almost continuously but at a lower, variable speed. The most efficient PSC motors offer only 60 percent efficiency, while ECM units can be more than 80 percent efficient. This reduces the electricity consumption component of your monthly heating and cooling costs.

• The continuous air circulation of a variable-speed ECM blower trumps the conventional on/off technology of older PSC units. When older furnaces cycle off, the interruption of circulation allows hot air to accumulate at the ceiling. Rooms cool excessively during the off-cycle and require excess energy to heat them back to the thermostat setting. Continuous circulation provided by variable-speed ECM blowers prevents the accumulation of heat at the ceiling, eliminating cool-down and saving energy.

• Reduced system air volume helps maintain more comfortable indoor humidity during winter months by decreasing the furnace’s drying effect. On humid summer days, variable-speed technology facilitates more effective humidity extraction at the air conditioner evaporator coil.

• ECM blowers start at very low air volume and gradually increase airflow to the programmed capacity. This means nearly silent operation, a substantial contrast to the loud, on/off air blasts of a conventional PSC air handler.

Sobieski Services offers the cutting edge of HVAC technology for your interior comfort and efficiency. Call us today about upgrading to a system with energy-saving electronically commutated motor technology.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC & plumbing systems).

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