What Is an Inverter HVAC System? A Simple Guide for Homeowners in St. Louis

December 29, 2025
what-is-an-inverter-hvac-system-a-simple-guide-for-homeowners-in-st-louis Feature

What Is an Inverter HVAC System? A Simple Guide for Homeowners in St. Louis. Whether you’ve never heard of inverter HVAC systems before, or you have a neighbor telling you to get one and you want to learn more about it, we’ve got you covered with a quick and easy guide. And if you still have any questions by the end of this post, please reach out to our team!

The SmartHouse Heating and Cooling team are experts in all things HVAC and are here to help with evaluations, repairs, replacements, and upgrades for homeowners throughout the St. Louis area. If there’s anything we can do to help make your home more comfortable and energy efficient, call us at 314-370-1816 or contact us online.

Table of Contents:


What Is an Inverter HVAC System and How Does It Work?

An inverter HVAC system, sometimes called a “variable capacity” or “variable speed” system, works by adjusting how fast it runs to match your home’s needs. Instead of switching completely on or off, the system uses an inverted compressor to change speeds as needed.

Because of this, the system can run steadily at varying speeds, increasing or decreasing its output as needed to keep your home at a stable temperature. It adjusts its performance based on current requirements. For this reason, these systems work especially well with smart thermostats, enabling clear communication across your HVAC system to boost efficiency.

What Is the Difference Between Inverter HVAC Systems and Traditional HVAC Systems?

Traditional HVAC systems are typically either single-stage or two-stage – you can probably guess what that means, but to summarize:

  • Single-Stage HVAC Systems can only run at full capacity or turn off.
  • Two-Stage HVAC Systems can run at either full or preset partial capacity or turn off.
  • Inverter HVAC Systems can vary the speed at which it runs dynamically to adjust to your current needs, with high efficiency.

Advantages of a Variable Speed HVAC System in St. Louis

Efficiency:

The variable speed HVAC units are much more energy efficient by maintaining a steady, medium speed, rather than rapidly switching or turning on and off. This typically reduces energy consumption by up to 30%, or even more, when compared to traditional systems.

Consistently Comfortable:

Throughout the day and throughout the year, inverter HVAC systems can adapt to your home’s needs. And, if you upgrade to a variable capacity heat pump, you can draw heat in during the winter and keep it cool during the summer, all in one system.

Quiter

You won’t miss the roar of your old HVAC unit starting up like a jet engine as it turns on. The dynamic speeds of a variable capacity system mean that it’s not constantly running at max power.

Better Humidity Control in the Summer

By avoiding the overcorrecting and temperature swings of a traditional HVAC system, you can keep your humidity in check without increasing your energy bills. Live your most comfortable Summer ever!

Are There Drawbacks to Inverter HVAC Systems?

By and large, inverter HVAC systems are some of the best options available. Their efficiency, comfort levels, quiet operations, and humidity control all add together to make an unrivaled option for heating and cooling your home. The main thing to be aware of is that these systems can have a higher initial price.

The newer technology that is being implemented in variable capacity HVAC systems is a bit more expensive upfront; however, in the long term, the savings from increased energy efficiency over the lifespan of the system outweigh the up-front costs.

Manufacturer rebates and seasonal specials can also reduce the upfront cost of the system.

How Can I Switch To a Variable Speed HVAC System in St. Louis?

At this point, you might be asking why everyone in St. Louis hasn’t switched to a variable speed HVAC system, and as far as we can tell, the answer is simply that not everyone is aware that they exist. Who wouldn’t want a more comfortable, energy-efficient system for their home?

Contact SmartHouse Heating and Cooling Today to Set Up Your St. Louis Inverter HVAC System

We go the extra mile to make sure our customers are 100% satisfied with our service. Beyond your home’s HVAC system, we check your ductwork, airflow, air quality, humidity, and much more. Using advanced tools, we test our fixes to ensure they are working properly, and use our whole-home performance approach to find any areas for improvement in your home.

If you have any questions on Inverter HVAC systems, or anything else heating and cooling related, call us at 314-370-1816, text us at 314-310-2242, or set up an appointment online to find answers for your St. Louis home.