Amana AMES96 Review: 96% AFUE High-Efficiency Gas Furnace
Amana AMES96 Review: The Amana AMES96 is a 96% AFUE high-efficiency gas furnace built for homeowners who want dependable heating performance, lower energy costs, and long-term reliability—without stepping into premium pricing.
If you’re replacing an older furnace and want something efficient, quiet, and straightforward, the AMES96 delivers consistent results without unnecessary complexity.
Quick Take
- Best for: Small to mid-sized homes, moderate climates
- Strength: Reliable performance + strong warranty
- Trade-off: Limited comfort control (single-stage operation)
Not sure if the Amana AMES96 is the right size for your home?
Use our sizing guide to avoid overspending or under heating.
👉 Check the Furnace Sizing Guide
🎯Who This Furnace Is Really For
The AMES96 is a practical choice if you:
- Want a high-efficiency upgrade from an older system
- Prefer simple, proven technology over advanced features
- Live in a moderate climate
- Need consistent heating without premium cost
It’s less suitable if:
- You have a large home with uneven heating zones
- You want precise temperature control (two-stage or modulating)
- You’re prioritizing maximum comfort over simplicity
Still comparing different Amana models?
See how each option fits different home sizes, budgets, and comfort needs.
👉 Learn more about our approach
💰Price and Installation Cost
- Typical installed price: $4,800 – $5,400
What affects the final price:
- Size of your home
- Installation complexity
- Existing duct system
- Regional labor rates
Compared to premium furnaces, this model offers strong efficiency at a more accessible price point.
Need a more accurate estimate?
Request a free quote based on your home size, location, and installation requirements.
⚙️Performance: What You’ll Notice Day-to-Day
The AMES96 focuses on reliability and steady heating, not advanced modulation.
- Single-stage burner → consistent output when running
- Multi-speed ECM blower → smoother airflow than basic systems
- Quiet operation → insulated cabinet reduces noise
- Stable efficiency → performs well across typical winter conditions
👉 In real homes, this translates to:
A system that runs reliably, heats evenly, and doesn’t require constant adjustment
🌱Efficiency and Energy Savings
- 96% AFUE rating
- ENERGY STAR® certified
- Condensing furnace design (captures more heat)
This means:
- Lower monthly heating bills
- Better fuel utilization
- Noticeable improvement over older 80–90% furnaces
Build Quality and Durability
Amana positions this model as a long-life furnace, not just a budget option.
- Heavy-gauge steel cabinet
- Silicon nitride igniter (more reliable than older systems)
- Secondary heat exchanger improves efficiency and lifespan
Full Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| AFUE |
96% |
| Burner Type |
Single-stage |
| Blower Motor |
Multi-Speed ECM |
| Heating Capacity |
38,440 – 115,320 BTU |
| Height |
~34.5 inches |
| Width |
~17.5–24.5 inches |
| Depth |
~28 inches |
| Weight |
~130–170 lbs |
| Max ESP |
~0.5 in. WC |
| ECM Motor HP |
1/2 – 3/4 HP |
| Airflow Range |
~800 – 2000 CFM |
| Noise Level |
~50–65 dB |
| Gas Connection |
1/2 inch |
Compatibility and Installation Requirements
- Works with standard thermostats
- Compatible with basic smart thermostats
- Venting: PVC / CPVC
- Electrical: 120V
- Fuel type: Natural gas
Professional installation is required to ensure proper performance and warranty coverage.
Warranty Coverage
Amana stands out with one of the best warranties in the industry:
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty
- Lifetime unit replacement warranty
- 10-year parts warranty
If the heat exchanger fails, Amana replaces the entire unit—something many competitors do not offer.
| Model |
Best For |
Burner |
Comfort Level |
Price (Installed) |
| AMES96 |
Balanced reliability |
Single-stage |
Medium |
$4,800 – $5,400 |
| AMVM97 |
Premium comfort |
Modulating |
High |
$5,500 – $6,100 |
| AMVS96-U |
Better airflow comfort |
Single-stage + variable-speed |
Medium-high |
$5,000 – $5,600 |
| AMES92 |
Budget option |
Single-stage |
Basic |
$3,800 – $4,500 |
Expert Insight
From an installer’s point of view:
- Single-stage furnaces like AMES96 are simpler and often more durable
- Fewer moving parts = fewer long-term issues
- However, they don’t adjust output → comfort is less refined
This model is ideal for homeowners who prioritize reliability and cost-efficiency over advanced comfort control.
👍Pros and👎Cons
Pros
- High efficiency (96% AFUE)
- Reliable and simple design
- Strong warranty coverage
- Lower cost than premium models
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Single-stage heating limits comfort precision
- Not ideal for large or very cold homes
- Fewer advanced features
Final Verdict: Is the AMES96 Worth It?
The Amana AMES96 is a solid, a straightforward, reliable furnace designed for consistent performance:
- Consistent heating
- Good energy efficiency
- Long-term reliability
It’s not designed to be the most advanced system—but it performs exactly where most homeowners need it.
👉 If you want a dependable, efficient furnace without paying for premium features, the AMES96 is a smart choice.
Still deciding?
Get a Free Quote
Request a free installation quote and get expert guidance based on your home and heating needs.
FAQs
Q: Is the Amana AMES96 worth it?
Yes, it’s a reliable mid-range furnace offering good efficiency and long-term value.
Q: What is the price of the AMES96?
Installed cost typically ranges from $4,800 to $5,400.
Q: Is this furnace good for cold climates?
It works best in moderate climates. For extreme cold, a modulating model is better.
Q: How efficient is the AMES96?
It has a 96% AFUE rating, meaning most fuel is converted into usable heat.
Q: Does it support smart thermostats?
Yes, it works with many standard and basic smart thermostats.
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