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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
Daikin DC96HS Review
Daikin DC96HS Review

Daikin DC96HS Review

AFUE: Up to 96%
ENERGY STAR ®: No
Burner Type: Dual Stage
Blower Type: Variable Speed
Price: $3,500 – $4,330
BTU Output: 38,400 – 114,000
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Daikin DC96HS Review: Reliable Dual-Stage Heating with Solid Efficiency

The Daikin DC96HS is a hybrid, dual-stage gas furnace that balances energy efficiency, performance, and cost-effectiveness. Equipped with a multi-speed blower and a robust heat exchanger, this furnace delivers consistent comfort while helping homeowners manage energy expenses.

Average Price (Installed): $3,500 – $4,330
AFUE Rating: 95–96%

Top Features

  • Hybrid dual-stage furnace – Provides efficient low-heat operation with full-capacity backup when needed

  • Multi-speed blower motor – Ensures precise airflow control and quieter operation

  • High efficiency (AFUE 95–96%) – Converts the majority of fuel into usable heat

  • Fully insulated heat exchanger and blower section – Enhances durability and reduces noise

  • Self-diagnostic control board – Simplifies troubleshooting and maintenance

The Bottom Line

The DC96HS may not include the latest high-end furnace technology, but it offers dependable heating, respectable efficiency, and strong build quality. Its dual-stage operation and multi-speed blower allow it to maintain consistent indoor temperatures while optimizing energy use.

In-Depth Review

Product Specifications

  • Sub-models: 0402BNA, 0603BNA, 0804CNA, 1005CNA, 1205DNA

  • AFUE: 95–96%

  • BTU Input: 40,000 – 120,000

  • BTU Output: 38,400 – 114,000

  • Compressor Type: Hybrid Two-Stage, Multi-Speed

  • Heat Exchanger: Heavy-duty stainless steel with secondary stainless-steel exchanger

  • Igniter: Durable Silicon Nitride

  • Gas Valve: Two-stage

  • Cabinet: Heavy-gauge steel with durable finish

  • Cabinet Air Leakage (QLeak): ≤ 2%

  • Certifications: AHRI Certified, ETL Listed

Key Features Explained

Hybrid Dual-Stage Furnace – The two-stage gas valve primarily operates at a low setting for efficient heating, but can ramp up to full capacity when temperatures drop sharply, maintaining steady home comfort.

Multi-Speed Blower Motor – Adjusts airflow based on demand, offering more accurate temperature control and reduced operational noise compared to single-speed systems.

High AFUE (95–96%) – Converts 95–96% of fuel into usable heat, exceeding Canadian energy standards and providing significant energy savings.

Fully Insulated Heat Exchanger and Blower Section – Improves efficiency, reduces noise, and ensures long-lasting performance.

Other Features:

  • Quiet single-speed induced draft blower

  • Self-diagnostic control board with fault history display

Warranty Information

Daikin backs the DC96HS with comprehensive warranty coverage and their Daikin Comfort Promise, which includes a one-year free troubleshooting house call by a certified installer.

  • Lifetime Limited Heat Exchanger Warranty

  • 6-Year Unit Replacement Limited Warranty

Comparable Models

By Lower Price: DC96HS vs. DM92SS

  • DC96HS is a hybrid two-stage furnace with fully insulated heat exchanger and blower section.

  • DM92SS is a single-stage model with foil-faced insulated heat exchanger.

  • Both have similar warranties, but DC96HS adds a 6-year unit replacement warranty.

By Features: DC96HS vs. DM96VC

  • DC96HS: Hybrid, dual-stage, multi-speed blower, AFUE 95–96%

  • DM96VC: Dual-stage, variable-speed ECM, AFUE 96%, 12-year unit replacement warranty

  • Both are two-stage, but the DC96HS offers slightly less advanced technology at a more affordable price.

By Tier: DC96HS vs. DC97MC

  • DC97MC: 97% AFUE, modulating burner, variable-speed ECM, 12-year unit replacement warranty

  • DC96HS: 95–96% AFUE, hybrid dual-stage, multi-speed blower, 6-year unit replacement warranty

  • DC96HS offers solid efficiency and reliability without the premium price tag.

Final Verdict

The Daikin DC96HS is a reliable, energy-efficient furnace suitable for homeowners who want consistent comfort and solid savings without investing in top-tier, modulating technology. With dual-stage operation, multi-speed blower, and comprehensive warranty coverage, it remains a smart, cost-effective choice in the mid-tier furnace market.

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