If you want to increase the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling system, consider an electronically commutated motor (ECM) in either the air handler or the outdoor condenser. Compared to PSC (permanent split capacitor) motors, ECMs use far less electricity and offer other important benefits, including:

• Quiet operation. ECMs don’t use brushes, which contributes to a quieter operation. They also run more slowly, which reduces the noise coming from the air handler and the ductwork.
• Better humidity management. Since the running speed is slower, the system runs longer. In the summer, an ECM in the air handler removes more humidity, which helps your home feel cooler.
• Improved indoor air quality. The slower running speed means that more air goes through the air filter, where it’s trapped. You breathe fewer airborne particulates, which can help with asthma, allergies or sinus problems.
• Variable running speeds. These motors can be set to start and stop slowly, and some can vary their output based on the heating or cooling needs of your home. The temperatures indoors won’t fluctuate as much with the slower running speed. Not only does this contribute to a quieter home, it also reduces the stress on the motor and its mounting framework.
• Cooler running temperature. An electronically commutated motor doesn’t generate the same amount of heat that a PSC motor does. In the summer, the motor won’t add to the cooling load of your home.

ECMs increase the energy efficiency of heating and cooling systems because they use from 65 to 80 percent less electricity than a PSC. When both the condenser and the air handler have an ECM, your electric bills will decline. Instead of using alternating current, these motors use direct current, made possible by an inverter inside the motor.

If you’d like more information about retrofitting your current HVAC system with an electronically commutated motor or about new systems that use them, contact Smoky Mountain Heating & Air. We provide HVAC services for the Asheville area and are here to answer your questions.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Asheville, North Carolina and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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