Stage 1 and Stage 2 on a thermostat refer to the different heating or cooling stages that your furnace or air conditioner can operate in. These stages are designed to provide more or less heating or cooling capacity based on the needs of your home.
In the context of a furnace, Stage 1 typically refers to the first stage of heating, which is usually the lower capacity or slower burn rate. This stage is generally sufficient to meet the heating demands of your home under normal conditions. For example, if the temperature in your home drops below the set point on the thermostat, Stage 1 will kick in and the furnace will start to generate heat.
However, if the temperature continues to drop and Stage 1 is not able to satisfy the call for heat, the thermostat will signal the furnace to activate Stage 2. Stage 2 is the second stage of heating and typically provides a higher capacity or faster burn rate. This stage is designed to provide additional heating power to quickly bring your home back to the desired temperature.
The decision to switch from Stage 1 to Stage 2 is usually based on a combination of factors, such as the temperature difference between the set point and the actual temperature, the rate at which the temperature is changing, and the time that Stage 1 has been running. The specific settings and timing can vary depending on the thermostat and furnace model you have.
It’s important to note that not all furnaces have multiple stages, and the availability of multiple stages can depend on the size and efficiency of your furnace. Some older or less advanced furnaces may only have a single stage, while newer and more advanced models may have multiple stages to provide more precise and efficient heating.
In terms of cooling, the concept is similar. Stage 1 would refer to the first stage of cooling, typically a lower capacity, and Stage 2 would be the second stage, providing higher cooling capacity if needed.
Having multiple stages allows your furnace or air conditioner to operate more efficiently and effectively. By using lower capacity in Stage 1, your system can maintain a consistent temperature in your home without constantly cycling on and off at full capacity. This can help save energy and reduce wear and tear on the equipment.
The stages on your thermostat help your heating and cooling system adjust its output based on the needs of your home, providing optimal comfort while maximizing energy efficiency.