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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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by dianeramsden on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Our air conditioner failed. Made a call and within 15 min a technician was at our door.
The issue was fixed and many suggestions were provided.
Thanks to Mitch. Great service !

by Kazuko on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Our furnace was rattling, as soon as we put our air conditioner on this past week. We had researched looking for a company that was Registered with Better Business Bureau, and this company TwinTech, had A+ Rating. Scott, was immediately helpful via text/phone and sent his technician as soon as he was able...Mitchell/technician provided great professional service. Thank you TwinTech.
Sean and Debbie

by ANOOP on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I contacted various companies when looking to install a new furnace and I found Twintech to be transparent with their communication and approach. They had options to suit my various requirements and the price vs quality was very good. The after installation communication was also very good and they answered all queries I had.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

My furnace broke down last month. The team was quick to respond, courteous, professional and mindful of COVID-19 concerns. I highly recommend them if you are considering replacing or servicing your HVAC equipment.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I was very happy with the installation and price. I would definitely recommend. Thank you Twintech.

by Dorothy on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Had furnace and air conditioning unit put in. They did an excellent job great price and everything clean as can be, I was very pleased

by Barry on Twintech Heating and Cooling

All winter I have had an issue with very little heat reaching the 2nd floor of our home. After this past winter ended I decided to look into this. I found Twintech Heating and Cooling on line and started the process. After explaining my problem I had a call form Twintech and the tech came out and walked through things with me. The problem was the heating vent pipe had been dropped down in size by someone years ago causing little heat reaching the 2nd floor. Further into checking out the older furnace and AC they found a few things not properly installed by the last install of the old furnace and also that the AC was on it's last legs. I asked for a quote and waited a few days and we decided to go ahead with Twintech. They called a few days before to set up an installation time and date. The day of the install the guys were a half hour early which was a plus. The day of the install was great, the guys worked away removing the old furnace and AC.After which they installed the new furnace and AC. After they cleaned up the basement with all their tools and scrap metal etc. they came back inside to walk thru what they did. They also tested both the furnace and cooling systems to make sure everything worked and I the customer was happy. I now have heat on the 2nd floor for next winter. The guys from Twin tech were very professional. Their work habits and knowledge of the job was excellent. Their workmanship was just excellent, it was just up there with my standards as a homeowner. I am very pleased to have chosen Twintech for my new furnace and AC.. If I had to rate this experience with Twintech this company is a 10 in my books.Product,workmanship and customer care says it all.

by Craig in Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I called Twintech during the Covid 19 crisis because our furnace was broken and it was still very cold during the nights. Dave answered all of my questions by phone but wanted to come have a look but only if our family felt comfortable having someone visit during the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and was able to attend that very same affternoon.

He was very courteous and informative but most importantly he respected his and our safety by wearing medical gloves in our home and maintaining proper physical distancing. He reviewed the various options of the products that suited our needs going over not only price but quality of workmanship, warrantees and where the product was manufactured which were all important factors in making such a large purchase. You could tell that Dave had been in this industry for a very long time.

The installation was done by a fine young gentleman the very next day and we now have a toasty warm home to ride out this crisis in while humming along at 96% efficiency!

I would recommend this very professional, small family business for anyone in need of HVAC equipment or maintenance.

by Lucy in Markham on Twintech Heating and Cooling

My special thanks to Twintech teams! They had replaced my furnace and A/C, and installed a new humidifier for me 2 weeks ago. Dave, the sales manager, not only provided me with an honest quote on the best HVAC products with best quality and warranties, he also arranged portable heaters for me and sent supporting docs to energy company for energy audit. Above and beyond service!

Greg, Grant, Mitch had worked tirelessly and professionally to perform the HVAC installation. They worked with professional tools, and performed proper measurement readings after installation. They are very patient with all my questions, and very pleasant to communicate.

Great work guys! This company sure knows their products and they stand behind their services. My home comfort level has improved! I am glad that I can support an ethical and honest local family business.

by ddame on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Professional, flexible on price and delivered on time...well done. All you can ask for when getting a new furnace.

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