Review
The Goodman GMEC96 represents practical engineering for homeowners tired of aging, inefficient systems. At $643, this 2-ton gas furnace and air conditioner combination splits the difference between budget basement models and premium brand-name equipment. Goodman's reputation for no-frills reliability, combined with Energy Star certification, makes this unit appealing to contractors and DIY upgraders. The upflow A-coil configuration suits most residential installations without requiring extensive ductwork modifications.
Performance metrics tell a straightforward story. The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU heating output at 96% AFUE, which translates to roughly 4% better efficiency than standard 92% AFUE units, meaning measurable gas savings over 20 winters. The AC side produces 24,000 BTU cooling at 14 SEER1 rating with single-stage compression and rotary compressor technology. The two-stage burner and multi-speed ECM blower optimize part-load operation, where most systems spend 60-70% of operating hours. Refrigerant R454B meets current EPA standards.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency exceeds most mid-range competitors, reducing winter gas bills significantly
- Two-stage burner and ECM blower motor optimize comfort and cycling efficiency throughout heating season
- 14 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies as Energy Star certified for tax incentive eligibility in many states
- Upflow A-coil configuration fits standard attic or basement installations in 90% of residential homes
- Plastic PVC exhaust flue requirement simplifies venting compared to metal ductwork alternatives
Cons
- Single-stage compressor in AC unit limits part-load efficiency compared to two-stage models
- 71 dB noise level runs louder than premium inverter-driven systems during operation
- Product specs contain discrepancies (tonnage labeled as both 2 and 3 ton, cooling BTU 24,000 vs 80,000 heating)
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 10+ year old furnaces and AC units, plus contractors needing reliable equipment for rental properties. This system balances upfront cost with 15+ year service life expectations.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in extreme climates, those prioritizing ultra-quiet operation, or homes already wired for higher-capacity systems should explore modulating or variable-speed alternatives.
Installation
Installation requires standard HVAC skills and tools. The upflow configuration needs vertical mounting in attics or basements with 34.5 inches height clearance. Suction line insulation (3/4 inch thickness) and refrigerant line sizing (3/8 inch liquid, 3/4 inch suction) follow standard practices. PVC exhaust venting simplifies installation compared to metal alternatives. Electrical requires 115V single-phase 60 Hz service with 14.3 to 25 amp breaker sizing. Professional installation typically takes 4-6 hours.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this unit with a lifetime heat exchanger warranty, 10-year unit replacement, and 10-year parts coverage when registered online. This tiered structure protects against catastrophic heat exchanger failure while limiting replacement costs post-decade. Online registration activates benefits and takes five minutes, a worthwhile step given Goodman's reputation for honoring claims.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-24-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 24,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Lifetime Heat Exchanger, 10 Years Unit Replacement, and 10 Years Parts with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 71 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 14 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Rotary |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 3/4" |
| Max Breaker Size | 25 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 14.3 amps |
| Tonnage | 3 Ton |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 17.5" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | GMEC96 Installation Manual GMEC96 Specifications Sheet GMEC96 Owner's Manual GMEC96 Service Manual GMEC96 Replacement Parts Manual GMEC96 Brochure Goodman Furnace Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents. |
| Safety Information | PROPOSITION 65 WARNING This product and many products on our site may contain a chemical know to the state of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information about Proposition 65 please Click Here. |
| Configuration | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 3/4" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1200 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
Affiliate disclosure: IndustrialRank earns a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have independently reviewed.