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What's the Difference Between Single Stage, 2-Stage and Variable Speed Furnaces?


It's the middle of January, and temperatures are freezing outside. But you're buried under blankets on your couch, wondering why your room temperature keeps dropping. Oh no! You need a new furnace! But what kind is the best for your home? Fortunately for you, there are many available furnaces in Guelph, Cambridge. The three types of furnaces for the home market are single-stage furnaces, 2-stage furnaces, and variable speed furnaces. Read on to determine which furnace works best for you.

Single-Stage Furnaces

As their name suggests, single-stage furnaces operate on one stage. They run at 100% when they are on, and the only other option is "off." This type of furnace does not take into account the outdoor temperature or fluctuations within the home. Energy efficiency should be a consideration when choosing the right furnace for your home. Most homes do not need a furnace that runs at 100% capacity all of the time. A single-stage furnace can waste significant amounts of energy, which impacts both the environment and your wallet. On the other hand, a home with few temperature fluctuations or small square footage may find a single-stage furnace the best option. It is important to talk to your heating and cooling specialists and consider the circumstances of your residence when selecting a furnace.

2-Stage Furnaces

A 2-stage furnace has a "low" stage and a "high" stage. The low stage operates at 60% to 65% capacity, while the high stage operates at 100% capacity. In mid-autumn, your home may be adequately heated by the low stage. During the winter season, especially during periods of extreme cold, the furnace will utilize the high stage to maintain heat in your home. When Guelph reaches its average temperature of -6.2°C in January, that high stage will help keep your house warm. This type of furnace works well in a two-story home or a home with temperature fluctuation areas. However, if you live in a climate where the temperature consistently remains cold, this may not be the best choice for you.

Variable Speed Furnaces

Do not be fooled by the name; a variable speed furnace does not have stages. Instead, it has a fan motor that moves at different speeds to control your home temperature. A digital thermostat helps tell the furnace the temperature in the home. With this information, the fan will adjust its speed to heat or maintain the temperature within the house. With variable speed furnaces, you have better control over the temperature in your home and better indoor air quality. Larger homes and homes with significant temperature fluctuations may find this type of furnace works best for them.

Find Furnaces in Guelph, Cambridge

The winter season in Ontario can be brutal. Make sure your furnace provides the best heating solutions for your home before the cold sets in. Check out Aire One Heating and Cooling for furnaces in Guelph, Cambridge today. Your future self will thank you for it.

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