What is the Difference Between Single-Stage, Two-Stage, and Modulating Furnaces?

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What is the Difference Between Single-Stage, Two-Stage, and Modulating Furnaces?

Posted On: January 8, 2020

What is the Difference Between Single-Stage, Two-Stage, and Modulating Furnaces?

When you are looking around for a new furnace, you will come across three different types: single-stage, two-stage and modulating. You may probably ask, what are the differences between them, and which one is right for your home?


In this article, we will explain the differences between them and help you decide which furnace works best for you and your family.


Single-Stage Furnaces


Single-stage furnaces only have one setting, which is high heat. On a call for heat, they immediately start running at full capacity, no matter what the temperature is outside until the signal coming from the thermostat is turned off. These types of furnaces are best suited for budget-conscious consumers, so in the long run, the upfront cost savings are not realized.


Two-Stage Furnaces


A two-stage gas furnace has two settings, high fire and low fire, and here is how it works. Most of the time, on a typical heating cycle the furnace will start out running on low fire, consuming less gas and electricity, while at the same time providing heat and gaining inefficiency. After approximately 7- 10 minutes of operation, the furnace begins to operate very efficiently because it is fully warmed up. Then, it will jump up into high fire and finish out the heating cycle at full capacity. Control of the high and low burner timing are made by the installers, as part of a new furnace installation.


You could also control the 2 stage burner by using a 2 stage thermostat, the effect of either is similar. Two-stage furnaces are considered more energy-efficient than single-stage because they are not always running at a full heating capacity of the appliance and are often equipped with an ECM blower motor which will also save on your electricity costs.


Modulating Furnaces


Modulating gas furnaces are at the top end of the gas furnace spectrum and are considered to be the most energy-efficient of the three. But, at an added price over two-stage or single-stage furnaces. Heating from a modulating furnace ramps up in increments to maintain a consistent temperature and the ductwork is always warmed up so there is a little efficiency lost during the warming up process.


When buying a modulating furnace you will almost always need to invest in a new thermostat controller specifically designed for this type of furnace in order to get the most out of it. Always ask your salesman about this option, as it is often not mentioned (due to the added cost of the new thermostat). If you are planning to stay in your home for the long-term, a modulating gas furnace may be the right fit for you.


When you want to buy a new furnace, you should always consult your local HVAC experts before making a decision. A trained HVAC technician can come to your home, go over your situation with you and help you decide which furnace best suits your home.


When you are ready for a new furnace, contact the Twintech experts! Our technicians are experienced and knowledgeable in all types of furnaces and HVAC systems.


For more information about our services, visit our website or give us a call at 1-844-894-6832. Contact Twintech today!




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by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Flawless transaction. They did exactly what they promised, showed-up on time, cleaned-up, and were highly professional. Highly recommended.

by Bill Edmondson on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Salesperson and 2 man installation team were all professional and
knew their stuff. All three were friendly and helpful, answering all
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by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

A dear late cousin of mine recommended this company and I have been happy with the service.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are very pleased with the work done by Twintech. They were very professional from start to finish. Dave came to our home and gave us a very competitive quote for new high efficiency furnace and air conditioner. The installers were very courteous and professional. We would highly recommend them.

by W1n5t0n1987! on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great experience getting an old furnace replaced.
Sales Guy (Dave) was great - honest, responsive, and friendly.
The work itself was done quickly and we are very happy with the outcome, thank you! We recommend TwinTech!

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

This review is late coming so my apologies to the amazing Twin Tech team! I contacted Dave at Twin Tech for a quote this past Feb (as I was collecting a few) and his recommendation was excellent. From the first meeting with Dave to the team installing the new furnace, not once did i feel uncomfortable . The team were extremely professional yet personable and clean and tidy. Decent companies still exist!
The new furnace just purrs and its just amazing the difference it has made!
(PS my sibling ended up getting a furnace from them as well)

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

The service was Twintech was excellent.
Dave our salesperson was easy to talk to and was professional. The unit recommended meets our needs and budget.
Greg and his team arrived on time for the installation and even got rid of the garbage the contractors left in our furnace.
Would definitely recommend Twintech.

by Steve V, Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Our old water tank was installed in 1997. Wasn't working as well as it should so we looked into a tankless as it is more efficient and a space saver! we had used Twintech in the past for a furnace cleaning and were satisfied with that so we decided to ask for a quote for the changeover. Gary arrived and provided the options and the quote fit within our budget so we decide to go with them after receiving a few alternative quotes from other companies. They did what the said would be done and it was completed within a reasonable time frame! Removal and cleanup of the old tank was seamless. We are now enjoying consistent and efficient Hot water! I recommend Twintech and would use them for future projects!

by New AC Unit + Humidifier on Twintech Heating and Cooling

One of the most honest HVAC companies out there! Dave was very helpful and informative in helping us choose a new AC unit. While they weren’t the lowest quote, we went with them because we trusted Dave and he was the most honest guy out of the companies that quoted us.
Greg and his crew who installed the unit were very professional and did a great job. If I could do it over again I would choose Twintech again.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Relocated and replaced our air conditioning unit. Fast, professional, and high quality service. We would definitely use them again for future projects!

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