Concord Furnace Reviews: Performance, Reliability and Value for American Homes

Choosing the right home’s heating system is critical, and Concord furnaces are a popular option among budget-conscious American households. This in-depth review covers Concord furnace performance, reliability, energy efficiency, costs, installation, and user feedback. Use this resource to decide if a Concord furnace fits your home’s needs and climate.

Overview Of Concord Furnaces

Concord furnaces are manufactured by Allied Air Enterprises, a subsidiary of Lennox International. They are known for offering practical, cost-effective solutions for home heating, targeting efficiency without excessive upfront costs. Concord’s product line includes gas, oil, and electric furnaces, most often chosen for replacement or new installations in residential settings.

The brand focuses on delivering affordable yet dependable furnaces with essential features, prioritizing utility and longevity. Concord units are widely chosen by HVAC professionals for straightforward installation and service requirements.

Main Features Of Concord Furnaces

• Energy Efficiency: Concord furnaces are available in standard and high-efficiency models, featuring Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings between 80% and 96%.
• Heat Exchanger Durability: Heavy-gauge steel construction ensures resistance to thermal stress and corrosion.
• Quiet Operation: Advanced blower and burner technology limits noise for enhanced comfort.
• Multi-Speed And Variable-Speed Blowers: Improve air distribution and can reduce electricity usage.
• Sealed Combustion: Many Concord models feature sealed combustion, drawing air from outside to increase safety and efficiency.
• Serviceability: Easy-access panels for fast maintenance, plus diagnostic controls in select models.

Concord Furnace Models

High-Efficiency Models

Model	AFUE Rating	Blower Type	Price Range (Unit Only)	Key Feature
Concord 96G1E	96%	ECM Motor	$1,100-$1,700	Multi-Stage Gas Valve
Concord 95G2E	95%	Variable-Speed Blower	$1,200-$1,800	Two-Stage Heating

Standard Efficiency Models

Model	AFUE Rating	Blower Type	Price Range (Unit Only)	Key Feature
Concord 80G1E	80%	ECM Motor	$900-$1,400	Single-Stage Heating
Concord 80G2E	80%	Multi-Speed Blower	$950-$1,400	Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger

Note: Prices can vary based on size, installation complexity, and local labor rates.

Performance And Heating Comfort

Concord furnaces provide reliable, consistent heat output suitable for a range of North American climates. High-efficiency models, such as the 96G1E, deliver warmer air while consuming less fuel, which is ideal for colder states and homes prioritizing lower utility bills. Standard efficiency models are often chosen in milder regions or replacement scenarios where venting upgrades are not feasible.

Multi-stage and variable-speed options offer enhanced comfort by adjusting heat output and airflow as needed, preventing temperature swings and cold spots throughout the home. Consistent airflow improves both air quality and comfort levels compared to single-stage units.

Energy Efficiency And Savings

AFUE ratings are the key metric for measuring furnace efficiency. Concord’s top-line models, featuring up to 96% AFUE, can help homeowners reduce natural gas or propane consumption significantly. For example, replacing a 20-year-old furnace with a modern high-efficiency Concord unit could save up to 30% on heating costs annually.

Some models also integrate electronically commutated motors (ECM), which consume less electricity and offer quieter operation. The lower initial investment compared to premium brands makes Concord appealing to budget-minded buyers who still want to benefit from energy savings.

Cost Of Concord Furnaces

The affordability of Concord furnaces is a major advantage. The average cost (unit only) ranges from $900 to $1,800 depending on the model and size. Installation costs typically add $1,500 to $3,000, influenced by difficulty, ductwork modifications, local labor rates, and the need for venting or electrical upgrades.

The total installed price generally falls between $2,500 and $4,500 for most American homes, making Concord one of the best values for reliable heating on a budget. Rebates may be available through local utility companies for high-efficiency models, potentially lowering the upfront expense.

Reliability And Durability

Reliability is a standout feature for Concord. Furnaces are built using high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials, particularly in the heat exchanger and combustion chamber. Field reports indicate a lifespan of approximately 15 to 20 years when properly maintained.

Standard warranty coverage includes 10 years on parts and a limited lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger, subject to registration and conditions. Many HVAC installers report low failure rates and straightforward serviceability, further supporting Concord’s reputation for durable, no-nonsense performance.

Warranty Coverage

• Parts Warranty: 10-year limited parts warranty (registration required within 60 days of installation).
• Heat Exchanger Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty for original owner (registration required).
• Transferability: Coverage may be reduced for subsequent homeowners; always check the latest policy for your area.
• Labor Warranty: Labor is not included but may be provided by the installer for a set period (commonly 1-2 years).

Highlight: These warranties are competitive within the value furnace segment and demonstrate Concord’s confidence in long-term reliability.

Noise Levels And Comfort

Concord furnaces score favorably in noise reduction due to insulated cabinets, soft-mount blower assemblies, and refined ignition controls. Most users report only modest operational sounds, particularly with variable-speed and ECM blower models. This makes Concord suitable for installation in close-living scenarios where minimal disturbance is important.

Installation Considerations

Proper installation is vital to furnace performance and lifespan. Concord units are engineered for compatibility with standard U.S. ductwork and venting requirements. Most local dealers have experience with the brand, ensuring an ample supply of replacement parts and prompt service.

Key recommendations for installation:

• Choose A Qualified HVAC Installer: Proper sizing, duct adjustments, and correct venting setup are key.
• Invest In A Quality Thermostat: Match furnace capabilities (such as multi-stage) with a compatible thermostat.
• Inspect Ducts And Insulation: Address any inefficiencies or leaks to optimize performance.

User Reviews And Feedback

Homeowners and HVAC professionals offer mixed but generally positive reviews of Concord furnaces. Most praise their straightforward reliability, value pricing, and satisfactory heating performance. Commonly cited strengths include:

• Consistent heat with low maintenance.
• Affordable installation and replacement costs.
• Quiet running and comfort-focused features in ECM/variable models.

Negative feedback is typically related to the features missing from premium brands, such as advanced smart controls, ultra-quiet operation, or intricate zoning compatibility. However, these are often not critical for the product’s core value proposition.

Comparison With Competing Brands

Concord is often compared to Goodman, Rheem, and Amana for its budget position. The table below summarizes key differences:

Brand	AFUE Range	Price Range (Unit)	Main Strength	Main Drawback
Concord	80–96%	$900–$1,800	Great value and dependability	Fewer high-end options
Goodman	80–98%	$950–$2,200	Widely available, good warranties	Mixed reputation for build quality
Rheem	80–96%	$1,100–$2,300	Advanced features, higher quality controls	Higher price for similar performance
Amana	80–98%	$1,100–$2,400	Premium warranties and features	Higher initial cost

Best Applications And Home Suitability

Concord furnaces are best suited to single-family homes, townhouses, and smaller multi-family properties where value and reliability take priority over luxury features. Ideal users include:

• Homeowners replacing an older, inefficient furnace on a budget
• Rental property owners seeking durable, easy-to-service heating options
• First-time buyers wanting proven equipment without premium pricing

Larger homes or those with complex zoning may wish to consider higher-end brands for expanded capabilities or smart home integration.

Maintenance And Longevity

Routine maintenance is simple and inexpensive. Yearly professional inspections are recommended to ensure safe operation, along with regular filter changes and cleaning of blower assemblies. Diagnosing and servicing Concord units are straightforward for most HVAC technicians, thanks to simple design and accessible parts.

Longevity of 15–20 years is readily achievable with consistent upkeep. Concord’s robust warranties provide additional confidence over the long haul.

Pros And Cons At A Glance

Pros	Cons
Competitive, budget-friendly pricing Solid reliability and straightforward design Broad efficiency range (80–96% AFUE) Low noise output Good warranty coverage	Limited smart and luxury features Not always available at large retail chains Some models lack advanced air filtration

Choosing The Right Concord Furnace Model

Selecting the ideal model involves several steps:

1. Assess Your Heating Needs: Consider home size, climate, and desired efficiency. Colder climates favor high-efficiency (95–96% AFUE) models, while milder homes can opt for 80% models.
2. Consider Comfort Options: For maximum comfort, select a multi-stage or variable-speed option for even temperature control and quiet operation.
3. Budget Wisely: Account for both unit and installation costs. Seek utility rebates.
4. Consult With An HVAC Professional: Correct sizing is crucial for peak performance and efficiency. A professional can evaluate your ductwork and offer personalized advice.

For most American homes, starting with the Concord 96G1E or 95G2E provides outstanding energy savings and comfort, while the 80G1E is a sensible, budget alternative for mild climates or basic replacement projects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Concord Furnaces

Are Concord Furnaces Energy Star Certified?

Some high-efficiency Concord models carry the ENERGY STAR certification, qualifying for federal or state rebates. Always check the specific model’s AHRI listing for eligibility.

How Long Do Concord Furnaces Last?

With regular care, lifespans of 15–20 years are the norm. Prompt repairs and filter changes are vital for long-term operation.

Do Concord Furnaces Work With Smart Thermostats?

Most Concord models are compatible with leading smart thermostats like Nest and Ecobee, particularly if equipped with standard control wiring. Advanced multi-stage or modulating controls may require compatible thermostats.

What Is Not Covered In The Concord Warranty?

The warranty excludes labor and consumables (filters, etc.), and damage from improper installation or lack of maintenance. Consult the official Concord documentation for full details.

Are Replacement Parts Readily Available?

Yes. Allied Air and Lennox dealers can source parts easily, and many third-party suppliers stock Concord-specific components due to their widespread use in the United States.

Concord Furnace Reviews: Key Takeaways

• Concord furnaces deliver reliable heating at an affordable price. They are best for homeowners prioritizing value and performance over luxury features.
• A broad efficiency range and strong warranty support make them a popular replacement or first-installation choice.
• Straightforward servicing and parts availability further enhance their role as a trusted, practical option for American families.