Focus on Energy’s Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Program is one of our most popular, not only because the incentives are generous ($50 per horsepower, up to 30 percent of project cost), but also because there are a lot of fans and pumps out there that need their old, non-operating flow-control systems replaced.

Today, VFDs can be purchased over the counter from a number of sources and installed with little or no risk. Sure, you still need to know the horsepower of the motor and how far the fan or pump needs to be turned down (the “turn-down ratio”). But all in all, if you are using a premium-efficiency motor or an inverter-duty motor, you can simply apply the appropriately powered drive and turn down the motor to obtain the speed or airflow that your customer’s job requires.

This accomplishes two major goals for the customer:
1.    Customizes the fan or pump to fit the job
2.    Saves the customer energy and money

VFDs increase efficiency by running equipment only when and as much as it’s needed. When a fan or pump operates beyond the job’s needs, it wastes electricity. It also puts unnecessary wear and tear on components such as bearings, belts and motors, resulting in increased maintenance costs and reduced operating life.

Now’s a great time to recommend VFDs to your customers. Take advantage of Focus technical assistance and incentives and start quoting VFDs to your customers today! For details about Focus’ VFD incentive program, visit focusonenergy.com/vfd.

And don’t forget about motors. Focus offers incentives when you upgrade standard efficiency motors to NEMA Premium Efficiency motors—up to $5 per horsepower depending on the size of the motor. Look for more information about Focus on Energy’s NEMA Premium motor incentive program at focusonenergy.com/motors.

Photo Credit: Image compliments of Greenheck Fan Corporation.