2 Stage Gas Furnace Vs Single Stage

You ll get a gentle steady flow instead of intermittent blasts.

2 stage gas furnace vs single stage.

Modulating furnaces cost 20 to 30 more than 2 stage furnaces though that gap will probably close as the technology is used more often. Two stage furnaces also known as two speed furnaces operate much more efficiently than a single stage furnace. The difference between single stage and two stage furnace is the single stage furnace has only one heating output. The cost factor in single stage 2 stage and modulating furnaces single stage furnaces are the most affordable.

The first stage of this type of furnace operates the majority of the time in most climates and runs at about 65 of the furnace s full capacity. However keep in mind the the furnace is only part of the equation. These furnaces run for longer periods of time but they provide more even heat distribution throughout your home. That means that the 100 000 btu furnace can operate at 70 000 btus per hour or at 100 000 btus per hour.

If it is a 100 000 btu per hour furnace it is always burning at the 100 000 btu rate. Single stage furnaces have a gas valve that opens at 100 capacity. While the initial cost might be a drawback there are several reasons why a two stage furnace could be a better match for your heating needs than a single stage model. Two stage furnace cons.

Likewise a 95 percent afue single stage furnace is more efficient than a 90 percent afue two stage furnace. More stable temperatures when running at its lower setting a two stage furnace provides a lower volume of warm air over a longer period. Most homeowners find that two stage furnaces are quieter than single stages furnaces and they usually don t need to adjust their thermostats as often. Also one reputable contractor recommended a single stage furnace stating that his experience is a two stage furnace in a two story house with our layout pretty typical doesn t work effectively.

Quieter two stage furnaces run much quieter than single stage furnaces. Not ideal for large homes two stage furnaces can be problematic in large homes unless the home has zone heating. Two stage furnaces generally only operate on high about 25 of the time. Beware of the two stage furnace hype certain heating contractors will rave about the claimed benefits of the two stage furnace.

If your home contains two or more levels a two stage furnace will be able to warm it much more evenly than a single stage furnace and for less money. More expensive two stage furnaces cost significantly more than single stage furnaces because the technology is more advanced. If it s rated at 80 000 btu s it will only operate at that capacity.