A 3-stage HVAC system is an advanced type of air conditioning system that has three different levels of operation. It is an upgrade from the two-stage system, which has two levels of operation, and the single-stage system, which has only one level. The biggest difference between these systems is that a two-stage air conditioner has a compressor that can operate at two different speeds, while a single-stage compressor is either 100% turned on or completely off. The two-stage compressor has this same 100% setting, but also another one that is somewhat lower.
While it varies by make and model, this second stage generally has a capacity of around 70%. This means that the efficiency of the compressor is determined based on the amount of cooling or heating that is achieved with a given amount of energy. A 3-stage system can have the values “low”, “medium” and “high”. It is a step forward from the two-stage system, although it doesn't meet the air filtering capabilities of a variable-speed system.
A 3-stage air conditioning system will have a low configuration (26% height) suitable for moderate weather conditions and 26% (extreme weather conditions). This means that it is possible to set up a single or multi-stage system using a furnace or a boiler or any energy source. Depending on the model, brand, and other factors, such as the size of the house, the starting price may be closer to that of a single stage or at a variable speed, so you'll want to consult an HVAC professional before determining if it's right for your budget. On the one hand, the longer operating times of a variable-speed compressor dehumidify your home more effectively than the relatively short cycles of a single-stage unit.
So keep in mind that, in these types of cases, you can't judge your air conditioning system simply by looking at where the cables come out. The good news is that a single-stage air conditioner will continue to cool your home properly, as long as it's the right size and properly installed. The unit has up to 22 SEER with 750 comfort levels for maximum climate control and maximum efficiency. Just as the two-stage camera can operate at a lower speed when it doesn't need to be at 100%, a variable-speed system can be adjusted accordingly to use only the energy needed to maintain a constant temperature in the home.
Two-stage units don't operate as continuously as a variable-speed alternating current, but they turn on and off less frequently than single-stage systems. When a single-stage unit is operated, “starting and stopping” the air flow means that less air is passed through the filter. To find out if you have a single or multi-stage system, check the number of wires that lead to the different terminals of the thermostat. If you're concerned about indoor air quality, opting for a two-stage or variable-speed unit can help purify the air circulating around your home, resulting in healthier conditions for you and your family.
They're a good middle ground between low-end and high-end efficiency and upfront cost, and will allow you to save on energy costs compared to a single stage.
