Goodman

When researching furnaces, the Goodman brand is a good place to start. Launched in 1982, Goodman is an established company with a strong reputation. Goodman offers a variety of furnace options, including single- and double-stage models. This guide details the top 10 Goodman furnaces and includes pricing, warranty information and frequently asked questions.

Types of Goodman furnaces

Goodman sells gas furnaces, which supply heat from a gas energy source. Goodman categorizes its furnaces by annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), which indicates how much of a furnace’s fuel becomes direct heat. A higher AFUE percentage means a more efficient furnace. Goodman groups furnace models with at least 90 percent AFUE and those with at least 80 percent AFUE.

The company offers gas furnaces in single-stage and double-stage models. A a single-stage furnace has a burner valve that can only be open or closed. The burner valve controls how much fuel enters the furnace.

The burner valve on double-stage models can be open, partially open or closed, which allows the furnace to blow full or partial heat. Double-stage furnaces are ideal for heating homes in temperate climates. Oregon-based Midway Heating states that double-stage models are more energy efficient than single-stage furnaces.

The blower motor on variable-speed furnaces can operate at different speeds to better control airflow. Variable-speed models are the most energy efficient.

Goodman furnace models

Goodman offers a variety of gas furnace options. Below are the company’s top 10 models.

GCVC96

AFUE rating: 96 percent

Type: Double-stage gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Quiet two-speed induced draft blower, self-diagnostic control board, variable-speed airflow system

Pros and cons: This is one of the most energy-efficient models, but reviewers state that it’s more expensive than some options.

GMVM97

AFUE rating: 98 percent

Type: Modulating, variable-speed gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Multi-position installation, which allows flexible placement in relation to the ductwork and spacing limitations, variable-speed induced draft blower, ComfortBridge Technology that monitors the system for indoor temperatures, CoolCloud HVAC app that allows technicians to connect with the system

Pros and cons: This furnace has the highest AFUE rating of any model on this list, at 98 percent. However, it is not listed as a traditional single- or double-stage model, so the price might be higher than other options.

GCVM97

AFUE rating: 97 percent

Type: Modulating, variable-speed gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Downflow multi-position installation, variable-speed induced draft blower

Pros and cons: This model boasts the second-highest AFUE rating, at 97 percent. Goodman customer reviews rate the product quietness at four out of five.

GMVC80

AFUE rating: 80 percent

Type: Two-stage gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Variable-speed motor for improved airflow, ComfortBridge Technology that monitors the system for indoor comfort and energy use, electronic control board

Pros and cons: The electronic control board makes this furnace easy to use, but at 80 percent AFUE, this model is less energy efficient than other furnaces.

GMVC96

AFUE rating: 96 percent

Type: Two-stage gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: ComfortBridge Technology, multi-position installation, variable-speed circulator motor, several fan speed options

Pros and cons: One reviewer notes insufficiencies in the front panel bolts and locking mechanism and states that it is difficult to slide the filter in and out of its compartment. This is a two-stage model, which allows for varied heating levels.

GCEC96

AFUE rating: 96 percent

Type: Two-stage gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Multi-speed blower motor, two-speed induced draft blower that reduces noise, self-diagnostic control board

Pros and cons: Although 96 percent is a high AFUE rating, it is lower than the highest-rated models. One reviewer states this furnace is smaller and more efficient than their older model.

GMEC96

AFUE rating: 96 percent

Type: Two-stage gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Upflow and horizontal installation, ultra-low NOx, multi-speed motor for custom airflow

Pros and cons: At 96 percent, this furnace has a good AFUE rating, but it is not as energy efficient as the top models.

GMES80-U

AFUE rating: 80 percent

Type: Single-stage gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Multi-speed motor, ultra-low NOx, fault code LED output, quiet draft inducer

Pros and cons: With an 80 percent AFUE rating, this is one of Goodman’s least efficient furnaces. This is a single-stage model, which means it is a less energy efficient but more affordable option.

GCES80

AFUE rating: 80 percent

Type: Single-stage gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Four-speed circulator blower motor, electronic control board

Pros and cons: The 80 percent AFUE rating is lower than Goodman’s other models. However, choosing this basic single-stage model can reduce up-front costs.

GMES96-U

AFUE rating: 96 percent

Type: Single-stage gas furnace

Goodman furnace features: Ultra-low NOx that reduces emissions, multi-speed blower, self-diagnostic control board

Pros and Cons: With a 96 percent AFUE rating, this model is more energy efficient than many furnaces in Goodman’s line. The model’s low NOx emissions comply with California state standards.

Goodman furnace pricing

Goodman does not list specific prices on its website. The best way to get accurate and up-to-date Goodman furnace pricing is to contact a local HVAC professional. Below are a few factors that can affect pricing.

  • Features: Double-stage models tend to cost more than single-stage furnaces, and variable-capacity furnaces are typically the most expensive.
  • Unit size: Larger furnaces tend to cost more.
  • Installation fees: Choosing a model that costs more to install increases the final price.
  • Home type: Larger homes, especially those that require multiple units, typically cost more to heat.

Goodman furnace parts warranties

Goodman provides a comprehensive warranty system on many furnace models. Goodman offers a lifetime limited warranty on each furnace’s heat exchanger. If the heat exchanger fails during the first 10 years of ownership, Goodman will replace the entire unit. Each unit also has a 10-year limited parts warranty on all functioning parts.

Goodman’s website features a warranty lookup tool. You can also check your Goodman furnace manual for warranty information.

Goodman furnace reviews

To learn more about Goodman furnaces, explore the extensive list of Goodman furnace reviews on HVAC.com.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Goodman furnace cost?

The cost of a Goodman furnace varies based on model and installation fees. Talk to a local furnace supplier for up-to-date pricing information.

Where can I buy a Goodman gas furnace?

You can search for a local dealer through Goodman’s website.

How long will a Goodman furnace last?

According to SFGate, the average life expectancy of a furnace is 16 to 20 years. Many Goodman furnaces have a 10-year warranty.
Goodman lists three reasons to replace your furnace. Goodman recommends replacing your unit if a part breaks and the repair costs are more than 50 percent of the cost of replacing the furnace. You might also decide to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model or when you notice your home is not staying as warm as it should.