Compressor Types: Single, Two-Stage, Variable-Speed

July 17, 2024

Variable-speed compressors are one of the most recent products in residential air conditioning. It’s a huge leap forward for getting the perfect indoor temperature most efficiently. And if you’re wondering “What’s the difference between single-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed compressors,” here’s the simple answer: Variable-speed compressors are the better choice. 


But you weren’t looking for the simple answer, were you? Let’s talk about why it’s the better choice. 


Understanding Traditional Air Conditioning 

Single-stage compressors are the most basic type, offering only one level of operation: high. This means they run at full capacity whenever they are on, cycling on and off throughout the day. 


Single-stage compressors blast your home with cold air and turn themselves off when they reach the temperature setting on your thermostat. For example, if you set the thermostat to 75 degrees, the air conditioner will run anytime indoor temperatures hit 76 degrees. After the AC cools the house back to 75 degrees, it will turn off again. 

 

There’s also a two-stage or dual-stage compressor that provides two distinct levels of operation: high and low. This allows for more efficient and flexible cooling compared to single-stage systems. A two-stage unit runs at full capacity when you need it to and at a lower level when you don’t. Two-stage units don’t run as continuously as a variable-speed AC, but they do cycle on and off less frequently than single-stage systems. 


Basics of Variable-Speed Air Conditioning

Variable-speed compressors work differently. To maintain an indoor temperature that matches the setting on your thermostat, they operate continuously at less than 100% capacity – often as low as 25% or 30% capacity. As a result, they run for much longer cycles than single-stage AC units. In the summertime, they might run for all or most of the day! 


At this point, you’re probably thinking, “It’s hot out there! Why would I want an air conditioner that runs longer and cools my home slower?” 


Well, a variable-speed compressor’s longer run times dehumidify your home more effectively than the short cycles of a single-stage unit. One of the biggest problems with single-stage compressors is that they’re not running continuously. Relative humidity increases whenever the AC isn’t on, making you feel hotter and more uncomfortable. 


Most people deal with this problem by lowering the temperature on their thermostat, which brings us to the other benefit of variable-speed compressors: cost. 


The Cost of Comfort

A single-stage compressor blasts your home with cold air before it turns itself off. Then it turns on again when the indoor temperature increases. Most of your air conditioner’s electricity draw occurs when it turns on, not while it’s running. In the summer, a single-stage compressor turns on and off a lot, known as “short cycling.”  Short cycling can become an issue when it is above 95 degrees outside and you’re gaining heat about as fast as your A/C can remove it. 


Since single-stage compressors have short cycles, they draw a lot more electricity than a variable-speed unit that turns on and stays on (at a low speed) for hours. They also don’t dehumidify indoor air very well, forcing you to lower the temperature setting on your thermostat. As a result, the single-stage AC is much more expensive to operate! 


Two-stage compressors don’t turn on and off nearly as much. They’re more efficient than single-stage units, but not as efficient as variable-speed compressors. Variable-speed air conditioners run continuously, dehumidifying the air inside your home.  As a result, you feel comfortable at higher temperatures and don’t have to set your thermostat so low. And since they don’t turn on as often, variable-speed AC units lower your energy bill. 


 

Are There Other Benefits? 

Believe it or not, more effective cooling and greater efficiency aren’t the only benefits of a variable-speed compressor. 


If you’re concerned about indoor air quality, opting for a two-stage or variable speed unit can help purify the air circulating your home, resulting in healthier conditions for you and your family. Since they dehumidify indoor air more effectively than a single-stage unit, a more efficient system helps you eliminate mold growth in bathrooms and kitchens, prevent dust mites, and create conditions that aren’t suitable for insect intruders. 

And since variable speed units run more frequently, they also filter your indoor air more effectively. More air is cycled through your return ducts – and your air filters – resulting in a lower volume of air contaminants.  According to the American Lung Association, the average American spends 90% of their time inside, and 62% of that time inside their own home.  Having cleaner air inside your home for yourself and your family is essential. 


Nowadays, you can look beyond “keeping cool” and improve many aspects of home comfort, all through your choice of air conditioning equipment. Variable speed technology is a big reason why. 


Looking for guidance on the best air conditioner for your Lincoln area home? Whether single-stage, two-stage, or variable speed, our team can help you choose the right system. Contact Custom Cooling and Heating today to find the right fit for you. 

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How to Handle a Broken Heater in the Middle of Winter

December 11, 2025
When temperatures plunge and your home suddenly feels more like a walk-in freezer, a broken heater can be more than an inconvenience, it can be an emergency. The middle of winter is the worst time to be without heat but knowing what steps to take can help protect your home, your family, and your comfort. At Custom Cooling & Heating , we help homeowners restore warmth quickly and safely. Here’s what to do if your heater stops working when you need it most. 1. Check the Basics First Before assuming the worst, start with a few simple troubleshooting steps. Many heating failures are caused by basic issues that can be resolved without a service call. Check your thermostat: Make sure it’s set to “Heat” and that the temperature is set higher than your home’s current indoor temp. If it’s a battery-powered thermostat, swap in fresh batteries. Inspect your circuit breaker: A tripped breaker can shut your furnace down completely. Reset it if necessary. Ensure your furnace switch is ON: Furnaces often have a standard light-switch-style power switch on or near the unit. Make sure it wasn’t accidentally turned off. Look at your air filter: A severely clogged filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to shut down for safety. If the filter looks dusty or blocked, replace it . If these quick checks don’t restore heat, the issue may be deeper inside the system and require professional attention. 2. Avoid Overworking Your System When heat stops flowing, it’s natural to keep adjusting the thermostat, hoping the furnace will kick back on. Try to avoid repeatedly turning the system on and off, as this can make the situation worse or cause damage. Instead, turn the system off if you smell burning, hear unusual noises, or see signs of overheating. These can signal electrical issues or mechanical failures that need a technician. 3. Use Safe Temporary Heating Solutions While waiting for repairs, you'll need to keep your home comfortable, but safety should always come first. Avoid using your oven or grill to heat your home, as these methods are extremely dangerous. Safer alternatives include: Electric space heaters: Keep them on a stable surface, at least three feet from flammable items. Fireplaces: Ensure the flue is open for proper ventilation. Layered clothing and blankets: A simple and safe short-term solution. If indoor temperatures drop too low, consider staying with a friend, family member, or in a hotel to avoid the risk of frozen pipes or health issues. 4. Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing A broken heater doesn’t just affect comfort, but it can also put your plumbing at risk. Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant water damage. To help prevent freezing: Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air around plumbing. Let faucets drip slowly to keep water moving. If your home has multiple stories, keep doors open between rooms to allow even air circulation. If temperatures in your home drop below 55°F, your pipes may be at risk, so monitor them closely until the heat is restored. 5. Call a Professional HVAC Technician If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a certified expert . Heating systems have complex electrical, mechanical, and safety components, so attempting repairs without training can be dangerous. At Custom Cooling & Heating, our technicians diagnose heater breakdowns quickly and offer reliable solutions to get your home warm again. Whether it’s a faulty ignitor, blower motor issue, dirty flame sensor, or aging furnace components, we’ll pinpoint the problem and recommend the most cost-effective fix. 6. Consider the Age of Your Heater If your heater is over 12–15 years old, repeated breakdowns may be a sign that it’s time for replacement. Older units lose efficiency, struggle to maintain consistent temperatures, and can increase your energy bills. A new high-efficiency heating system can: Reduce monthly utility costs Improve indoor air quality Deliver more consistent comfort Provide safer, more reliable performance Our team can help you compare repair vs. replacement options, so you can make the best choice for your budget and home. 7. Prevent Future Breakdowns with Regular Maintenance Once your heat is restored, the best way to avoid another winter surprise is to schedule annual furnace maintenance . Preventive service keeps your system running smoothly and can catch small issues before they turn into emergencies. Routine maintenance from Custom Cooling & Heating includes: Full system inspection Cleaning and lubrication Filter replacement Safety checks Efficiency testing Not only does this reduce the risk of winter breakdowns, but it also extends the life of your equipment. Stay Warm with Reliable Winter Heating Support A broken heater in the middle of winter can be stressful, but you don’t have to handle it alone. The experts at Custom Cooling & Heating are here to restore your comfort quickly and safely. Whether you need emergency repairs , routine maintenance , or a new system installation , our team is ready to help. Need fast heating service? Contact Custom Cooling & Heating today and let us bring the warmth back to your home.

Heating Your Home Efficiently: Best Practices for Lower Bills

November 12, 2025
As cold weather approaches in Nebraska, keeping your home warm without watching your energy bills skyrocket is a top priority. At Custom Cooling & Heating , we specialize in heating design, installation, maintenance, and repair services across Lincoln and surrounding communities. In this blog, we’ll walk through best practices to heat your home efficiently, lower energy costs, and prolong the life of your heating system. 1. Choose the Right Heating System for Your Home One of the biggest factors in efficiency is selecting the proper heating system based on your home’s size, insulation, ductwork, and climate. Whether you’re considering a high-efficiency furnace, a heat pump, or a hybrid system, proper sizing and design are crucial. Over‑sized systems may cycle on and off too frequently (wasting energy), while under‑sized systems may struggle to maintain comfort. 2. Perform Annual Maintenance & Tune‑Ups Even the best heating system loses efficiency if it isn’t maintained. For peak performance: Have your furnace or heat pump inspected and cleaned each year before peak use. Clean or replace air filters on schedule, every 1–3 months depending on model and usage. Order yours online through Custom Cooling & Heating here . Check for and seal duct leaks; leaky ducts waste heat by dumping warm air where it’s not needed. Make sure vents and registers are unobstructed by furniture, carpets, or drapes. Lubricate motors, tighten electrical connections, and confirm thermostat calibration. These steps ensure your system works less hard, reducing fuel or electricity use. 3. Optimize Thermostat Settings & Use Zoning Smart thermostat strategies can yield significant savings: Lower your thermostat when the home is unoccupied or overnight (e.g. 3–5° cooler). Use a programmable or smart thermostat to automate temperature changes. Consider zoning—divide your home into zones with separate thermostats, so you aren’t heating unused areas. Avoid frequently raising or lowering your thermostat drastically, as large swings force the system to work harder. Each degree you lower your thermostat can translate to noticeable savings over the heating season. 4. Improve Home Envelope & Insulation Your heating system’s effectiveness is only as good as your home’s ability to retain heat. A tight, well-insulated building envelope reduces heat losses and helps your system run less. Add or upgrade attic insulation. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and duct penetrations with caulk or weatherstripping. Use insulated curtains or window coverings. Insulate HVAC ductwork in unconditioned spaces (basements, attics). Consider adding storm doors/windows or better glazing in colder climates. Better insulation keeps the warmth in — resulting in lower heating demand. 5. Monitor Energy Usage & Take Advantage of Incentives Keep an eye on your monthly energy usage. If you notice spikes or trends upward, it may signal inefficiencies or failing components. Additionally: Check whether utility incentives, rebates, or tax credits are available when you replace a heating system with high-efficiency equipment. Many rebates apply for furnaces, heat pumps, or duct upgrades. Work with your HVAC contractor to ensure installations meet eligibility criteria. Smart upgrades now can pay off long term in lower bills and better system longevity. 6. Call on Professionals for Repairs & Upgrades If your heating system is underperforming—frequent cycling, uneven heating, loud noises, or rising bills—don’t wait until it fails. Call Custom Cooling & Heating for prompt repair or upgrade. Our licensed technicians offer residential heating repair, replacement, and preventive service across Lincoln and surrounding areas. We’re also BBB‑accredited with over 40 years in business. When you partner with experts, you ensure: Correct diagnosis of inefficiency sources Safe and optimized installation and repairs Long-term support and maintenance Heating Efficiently Isn’t Just About Comfort — It’s Smart Savings Heating your home efficiently in Nebraska’s colder months can make a big difference in your energy bills, system lifespan, and indoor comfort. By combining smart equipment choices, regular maintenance , good insulation, intelligent thermostat use, and professional services , you set yourself up for a warmer home and lower heating costs. If you’re ready to optimize your heating system or want an estimate on a new, efficient unit, contact us today. We’ll guide you through options tailored to your home, climate, and budget, so your heating bills stay in check all season long.