Perhaps you’ve been looking into replacing the furnace in your Nanaimo residence; however, it seems that there are so many options it leaves you a little overwhelmed. You should take the time to learn about the different types of furnaces available in order to choose the best one to suit your needs.
Generally, there are three types of furnaces: single-stage furnaces, dual-stage furnaces and modulating furnaces. Although each type of furnace will keep your home warm, there are differences among them. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Single-Stage Furnaces
Single-stage furnaces were first invented back in the 1930s. Since then, they’ve become rather popular for their efficiency and ease of use. A single-stage system has a single mode: On. Either the system is producing heat, or it isn’t. It’s that simple.
It will have a thermostat connected to the heat exchanger. Once the thermostat detects your home’s temperature has dropped below a set point, it will kick on the furnace. After the temperature rises above that point, it will turn the furnace back off.
There are a few benefits to a single-stage system. First, these systems are by far the least expensive to purchase. Setting up a single-stage furnace isn’t too hard, either. Finally, they tend to be the easiest to maintain. Because they’re so simple, maintenance shouldn’t cost a lot.
However, single-stage systems do have a few downsides as well. The biggest drawback is the lack of control settings. Since they’re either on or off, you won’t be able to fine-tune your home’s climate as much. When the temperature outside isn’t too cold, they can start short cycling, which means they will turn on and off frequently. With short cycling, you will experience more warm and cold spots in your home, and your comfort could be impacted.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for an affordable furnace to keep your house warm, these aren’t a bad deal. Even though they may not be as fancy as other systems, they’ll get the job done.
2. Dual-Stage Furnaces
Dual-stage systems add one more level of control compared to a single-stage system. These have both a low and a high setting, whereas single-stage systems only have a high setting.
The biggest benefit of a dual-stage system would be the elimination of short cycling. By detecting the temperature, it will adjust to the home’s needs. When there’s a big temperature difference, the high mode will turn on. As the temperature approaches the desired level, the furnace will switch to low. Overall, this creates a more even heating experience inside the home.
There’s only one downside of a dual-stage furnace, and that’s the cost. A dual-stage system will run you a bit more when you first get one. However, in the long run, it can save you more money. Because it’s more efficient, you’ll have a smaller heating bill at the end of the month. Over time, these systems can pay for themselves.
3. Modulating Furnaces
Modulating systems have only been available for the past few years. They come equipped with a variable-capacity blower, like a CVT in a car. There are no high or low settings. Instead, the blower will adjust depending on how much heat is needed. The lower the ambient temperature, the more output the blower produces.
There are several advantages to a modulating system. Above all, these furnaces create the most balanced heating experience within the home. Additionally, they are by far the most efficient systems. Therefore, you’ll spend the least money on your utilities if you have a modulating furnace. They’ll also warm up your home in a short period of time.
There aren’t many downsides to a modulating system. Of course, the cost of buying a modulating system would be the biggest negative factor. Since these are the most sophisticated, they’ll run you the most money up front. Maintaining them tends to be more expensive as well.
Regardless of the cost, the modulating furnace system offers the best efficiency. Over time, you’ll get whatever you’ve spent on one back. If you’re concerned about utility bills, modulating systems would be the best option.
Your Nanaimo Gas Furnace Team
At Twin Peaks Plumbing, Heating & Gas, we’ve committed ourselves to treat our customers like family. We’ve been working in the Nanaimo area since 2001, helping Nanaimo residents and businesses alike. If you’re looking for a new furnace, our team at Twin Peaks Plumbing, Heating & Gas can help. We install, repair and maintain all types of furnaces and heat pumps. We also provide a full range of plumbing services, including water heater assistance. Plus, we offer both commercial and residential gas fitting and gas appliance services. Contact Twin Peaks Plumbing, Heating & Gas today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
