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What size furnace should I buy?

Square FootageFurnace BTU
1,000-1,200 sq. ft. Home40,000 - 60,000 BTU
1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Home60,000 BTU
1,500-1,800 sq. ft. Home60,000 - 80,000 BTU
1,800-2,500 sq. ft. Home80,000 - 100,000 BTU
2,500-3,500 sq. ft. Home100,000 to 120,000 BTU
Amana AMES96 Review

Amana AMES96 Review

AFUE: Up to 96 percent
ENERGY STAR ®: Yes
Burner Type: Single-stage
Blower Type: Multi-Speed ECM
Price: $4,800 to $5,400
BTU Output: 38,440 to 115,320
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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.

Get a Free Installation Quote 

⚙️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

SpecificationDetails
AFUE96%
Burner TypeSingle-stage
Blower MotorMulti-Speed ECM
Heating Capacity38,440 – 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 HP1/2 – 3/4 HP
Airflow Range~800 – 2000 CFM
Noise Level~50–65 dB
Gas Connection1/2 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.

AMES96 vs Other Amana Models

ModelBest ForBurnerComfort LevelPrice (Installed)
AMES96Balanced reliabilitySingle-stageMedium$4,800 – $5,400
AMVM97Premium comfortModulatingHigh$5,500 – $6,100
AMVS96-UBetter airflow comfortSingle-stage + variable-speedMedium-high$5,000 – $5,600
AMES92Budget optionSingle-stageBasic$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.