When it comes time to install a new furnace in your home, you might be overwhelmed by the options. Not only are there different manufacturers and brands to choose from, you’ll also want to choose whether you want a gas or electric furnace and whether you want a “single stage” furnace or a “2 stage” furnace. Most furnaces typically last around 15 years, and as a furnace continues to age, it may require more frequent repair or even replacing to maintain efficiency and comfort. Replacing a furnace before it breaks down can be safer and more affordable, especially during the colder months when heating is essential.
What’s that? You’ve never heard of a “2 stage furnace”? That’s okay! That’s what we’re here for. We are ready to help homeowners from start to finish with your furnace installation, and we can follow it up with reliable repair and exceptional annual furnace maintenance to ensure that your heating system stays in great shape for the years to come. Read on to learn about these different furnace types.
The Key Difference Between Furnace Types
The key difference between a single stage and a 2 stage furnace is how they each generate heat. The single-stage furnace basically has two modes: on, or off. It creates much heat as possible, and then the blower fan blows that air into your living space at full speed, all the time.
Other furnaces, two-stage or multi-stage furnaces, run their blowers at variable speeds. This difference affects the comfort and efficiency of your home. The multi-stage furnace is still a relatively new concept, and so most older furnaces are single-stage systems.
A furnace is its most efficient when it goes through regular heating cycles, about 15 minutes per cycle, 3–4 times an hour. And your furnace uses the most energy cycling on and off. This is part of the reason we make a big deal about getting your furnace repaired ASAP if it is “short cycling” or turning on and off rapidly.
A multi-stage furnace is a multi-speed furnace. The fan and temperature will adjust based on your thermostat settings, therefore your furnace will continuously run when it’s turned on to bring you the most efficient heat without the need to keep cycling on and off. Achieving peak efficiency with a multi-stage furnace requires proper installation and system calibration to ensure optimal performance.
Should You Go With a Gas or Electric Furnace?
Whether you decide to stick with a single-stage furnace or invest in a multi-stage furnace, you still have one more decision to ponder: do you want a gas-powered furnace or an electric one?
The electric furnace does cost a bit more to operate in the long run, since electricity is not as efficient of a fuel source as natural gas. However, a gas furnace typically costs a bit more to install. Gas furnaces are known for their efficiency and durability, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
The primary reason many folks choose a gas furnace over an electric one is the efficiency, but the main reason folks choose electric is due to safety. Now, this isn’t to say that gas-powered heating systems are inherently dangerous, they’re not. But as with any system that uses natural gas as its primary fuel source, the risk is always there.
In addition to gas and electric furnaces, many homeowners are now considering heat pumps for their energy savings and their ability to provide both heating and cooling, making them ideal for year-round comfort. Heat pumps are especially efficient in moderate climates, and hybrid systems that combine a heat pump with a traditional furnace can help maintain efficiency and reliable heating during extremely cold weather. A hybrid system combines a heat pump with a gas furnace to improve efficiency during very cold temperatures. These heating and cooling solutions can offer significant energy savings and improved comfort throughout the seasons.
We’re happy to talk to you about all your options when it comes to your furnace installation. Don’t rush into this decision, as doing so could leave you with a system that’s not well-matched to your home!
Furnace Installation and Replacement
When it comes to furnace installations and replacements in the Twin Cities, choosing the right company can make all the difference in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. A new furnace installation isn’t just about keeping your home warm, it’s about ensuring your heating system runs efficiently, saving you money on energy bills, and giving you peace of mind all winter long.
At Residential Heating and Air Conditioning, we specialize in high-efficiency furnace installations, including gas furnaces and heat pumps, tailored to your unique heating needs. Whether you’re looking to replace an old furnace that’s driving up your utility bills or you want to upgrade to a more energy efficient furnace, our knowledgeable technicians are here to help you select the right furnace for your home and budget.
Our comprehensive furnace installation service covers everything from professional installation and setup to thorough testing of your new system. Testing and calibration of the new furnace are conducted after installation to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications. We also offer maintenance plans designed to keep your furnace running efficiently and extend its average lifespan, so you can avoid unexpected system breaks and costly repairs. If you’re noticing frequent repairs, strange noises, or delayed ignition from your current unit, it may be time to consider a replacement furnace. Our experienced technicians will diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution, ensuring your new system is installed with care and precision.
We understand that investing in a brand new furnace or replacement furnace is a significant decision for any homeowner. That’s why we offer free in-home consultations to discuss your options, assess your existing ductwork and hvac equipment, and provide a detailed estimate with upfront pricing. A mechanical permit is required for furnace installation or replacement in Minneapolis, ensuring that all work complies with local regulations. Our transparent pricing and flexible financing options (with credit approval) make it easier to manage the costs of a new furnace installation, so you can enjoy significant savings and a warm, comfortable home without surprises.
Residential Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted resource for furnace service in Minneapolis, MN. Contact us today!