
Amana AMES96-U: Mid-Range Furnace with Ultra-Low NOx Emissions
The Amana AMES96-U is a reliable mid-range furnace that combines efficiency, durability, and environmentally friendly design. While it features a single-stage burner, its special premix design allows for ultra-low NOx emissions, helping homeowners meet strict air quality standards. With a secondary heat exchanger and multi-speed ECM blower motor, this furnace achieves an ENERGY STAR® certified 96% AFUE, making it both cost-effective and environmentally conscious.
Average Price (with installation): $4,800–$5,400
Key Features
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Quiet Operation: Sound-isolated blower assembly, insulated heavy-gauge cabinet, and quiet induced-draft blower reduce noise levels.
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Ultra-Low NOx Emissions: Designed to meet stringent air quality standards.
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Secondary Heat Exchanger: Improves efficiency and durability with super-ferritic stainless steel.
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Multi-Speed ECM Blower Motor: Optimizes airflow, reduces energy consumption, and enhances comfort.
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Durable Components: Heavy-gauge steel cabinet, thermally insulated panels, and silicon nitride igniter for long-lasting performance.
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High-Efficiency Operation: 96% AFUE rating ensures more energy goes toward heating your home.
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Continuous Air Circulation: Promotes better indoor air quality.
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Self-Diagnostics & LED Fault Codes: Simplifies troubleshooting and maintenance.
Specifications
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AFUE: 96%
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Burner Type: Single-stage (premix for ultra-low NOx)
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Blower Type: Multi-speed ECM
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Heating Capacity: 38,400–76,800 BTUs
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ENERGY STAR Certified: Yes
Warranty Coverage
Amana provides industry-leading warranty protection for the AMES96-U:
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Lifetime Heat Exchanger Warranty
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Lifetime Unit Replacement Warranty – Amana will replace the furnace if the heat exchanger fails.
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10-Year Parts Warranty – Covers all functional components except the heat exchanger.
Note: Full warranty coverage requires registration within 60 days of installation. Professional installation and annual maintenance are recommended to maintain warranty validity.
Performance Overview
The AMES96-U is ideal for Canadian homeowners who prioritize environmental responsibility and energy savings. Its ultra-low NOx emissions and high-efficiency operation make it perfect for moderate climates or homes that value sustainable heating. While the single-stage burner may not be optimal for large homes or extremely cold regions, the condensing operation and multi-speed ECM blower motor elevate it above basic furnaces.
Comparable Models by Amana
AMES96-U vs. AMVM97
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AMVM97: Modulating burner, variable-speed blower, 98% AFUE, ENERGY STAR certified.
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Benefits: Maximum efficiency, quietest operation, and premium features.
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Cost: Higher price range ($5,500–$6,100 including installation).
AMES96-U vs. ACVM97
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ACVM97: Modulating, variable-speed, 97% AFUE, ENERGY STAR certified, ComfortBridge, and CoolCloud HVAC app.
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Benefits: Consistent temperatures, humidity control, and lower heating bills.
AMES96-U vs. AMEC96
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AMEC96: Two-stage furnace with better performance in larger homes and colder climates.
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Differences: AMEC96 lacks ultra-low NOx emissions and the heat exchanger warranty, which the AMES96-U offers.
Bottom Line
The Amana AMES96-U is a mid-range, high-efficiency furnace that combines eco-friendly design, reliability, and quiet operation. While it may not be suitable for very large homes or extremely cold climates, its ultra-low NOx emissions, 96% AFUE, and multi-speed ECM blower make it an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a durable, efficient, and environmentally conscious heating solution.
With robust warranties and solid performance, the AMES96-U is a furnace that offers both peace of mind and long-term savings.