What Does Stage 2 Mean On A Thermostat?

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To answer this question, it is important to understand how furnaces operate. Regardless of fuel type (gas, electric, propane, etc.), there are three primary types of furnaces – single-stage, dual-stage, and multi-stage. These designations essentially refer to how many levels of output the furnace can produce.

A single stage furnace has one level of output. So, whenever it is on, it is operating at “full speed” every time the thermostat calls for heat. It is basically on or off. So, even when your home needs only a slight adjustment in temperature, the furnace works at its full capacity to reach the desired temperature.

A dual-stage furnace provides a bit more efficiency. With two levels, a dual-stage furnace has basically a “low” or “high” setting. The lower setting, Stage 1, operates at about 60 percent capacity. This feature allows for greater efficiency when only a small temperature difference is required. Your furnace does not have to burn as much fuel or blow as hard as a single-stage furnace. However, when needed, a dual-stage furnace allows for 100 percent capacity. At Stage 2, the furnace operates at peak capacity until the desired temperature is reached. A dual-stage furnace adds tremendous benefit when it comes to efficient operation.

Still more efficient are multi-stage furnaces. These models provide multiple levels of output, often up to five. Just as a dual-stage furnace has a lower setting, a multi-stage furnace has multiple lower settings for exceptionally efficient operation.

With nearly 75 years of providing the best furnace repair in Norwood, Sinclaire Home Services has tremendous experience working with all types of furnaces. Each has its own advantages. As we can help clarify any questions, don’t hesitate to call.

What is meant by Stage Two heating?

When the thermostat on a dual-stage furnace reads “Stage 2,” it implies that the furnace is operating at the higher setting, giving you 100 percent of its capacity. Usually, the lower setting of a dual-stage furnace is sufficient to provide household comfort almost 80% of the time. This benefit translates into more efficient operation and lower utility bills.

There are many advantages that dual-stage furnaces offer:

  • Quiet, noiseless operation – Dual-stage, or two-stage, furnaces operate most of the time in their first stage. At this level, the furnace and the blower provide sufficient heat to keep you comfortable. Accordingly, a lower fan speed keeps noise levels lower. On the less-frequent occasions that Stage 2 is required, the fan will generate a sudden “kick” of air; and the higher working motor will generate more furnace noise.
  • More efficient performance – The amount of fuel consumed in a two-stage furnace is lower than that of a standard, single-stage This is because dual-stage furnaces run most of the time in the lower-capacity first stage. Single-stage furnaces run at their full capacity 100 percent of the time, consuming more fuel than a dual-stage furnace.
  • Consistent comfort – In single-stage furnaces, temperature regulation a very common problem. Two-stage furnaces eliminate this problem and provide excellent temperature regulation.
  • Enhanced air filtration – When the furnace operates at lower speeds, the filter has more time and opportunity to trap the different kinds of contaminants in the air. Because the filter can capture more pollutants, dirt, and dust, you will be able to breathe easily and comfortably.

What furnace is right for you and your home? Sinclaire Home Services has provided heating repair in Canton for decades. We are happy to share our experience and knowledge about all makes and models of furnaces as you consider your heating system needs. Call us at (508) 668-8200 to speak with one of our experts and get your questions answered.