Heating
Teamed with our Observer communicating wall control and the appropriate air conditioner and indoor coil, the SoftSound EC 97 functions as part of a complete communicating home comfort system. Various components of the system “talk” to each other electronically, fine-tuning comfort levels while maximizing energy savings.

Unlike single-stage furnaces—which heat up fast and shut down fast, creating noticeable swings in temperature—the SoftSound EC 97 delivers consistent heat and overall comfort. When paired with a compatible thermostat, the modulating heat system operates at lower heat levels most of the time and automatically modulates to the higher heat production if temperatures drop. The variable-speed blower motor can also help increase comfort by maximizing moisture removal¶ during cooling (air conditioner) operation. And the high efficiency blower motor can be run continuously to improve indoor air quality.
¶Used with a humidity-sensing thermostat or dehumidistat.
Wonderfully quiet.
The sturdy steel cabinet is thermal lined and insulated to reduce the amount of heat and operating noise that escapes. A sealed blower compartment, soft-mount components, and the variable-speed blower motor also reduce operating sounds. When matched with select Comfortmaker air conditioners and evaporator coils, the ECM variable-speed blower motor can also boost cooling efficiency for increased SEER† rating.§
†SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.
§As compared to the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute’s standard coil-only rating.
Comfortmaker units are backed by exceptional warranties, including our No Hassle Replacement™ limited warranty, which gives the original purchaser a replacement unit if the heat exchanger should fail due to defect within the first ten years. Upon timely registration, you also get a 10 year parts limited warranty and a lifetime limited warranty on the heat exchanger.*
The heart of every furnace is the heat exchanger. The proven RPJ® (Rigid Press Joint) heat exchanger is designed to move more heat to the outside surface for increased heat transfer. The weld-free interlocking clamshell design reduces cracking or separating over the life of the gas furnace. The RPJ heat exchanger plays a significant role in boosting this model’s efficiency to a 97% AFUE‡ rating. So you can count on energy savings, especially compared to an older, less efficient furnace.
‡AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency.
- Energy-saving high efficiency operation of up to 97% AFUE
- Variable-speed modulating operation reduces temperature and humidity swings in the home by heating and cooling more evenly
- 10 year No Hassle Replacement™ limited warranty* on the primary and secondary heat exchanger
- Lifetime limited warranty* on the primary and secondary heat exchanger
- 10 year limited warranty* on all functional parts