Review
The Goodman GMEC960603BN pairs a gas furnace with an air conditioning condenser in one integrated system. This horizontal A-coil configuration serves homeowners upgrading from older single-stage equipment. The unit combines 60,000 BTU heating output with 24,000 BTU cooling capacity, though sizing claims warrant careful verification against your home's actual load requirements. Goodman positions this mid-tier offering as a balance between budget units and premium systems.
Performance metrics show genuine efficiency gains. The furnace reaches 96% AFUE, converting nearly all fuel to usable heat compared to 80-85% on older models. The air conditioner delivers 16 SEER cooling through a two-stage scroll compressor that ramps down during mild days. Two-stage burners allow similar modulation on heating. The multi-speed ECM blower motor runs continuously without wasting energy on full-speed cycles. Operating sound stays reasonable at 71 dB during low-stage operation.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency cuts heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% units
- 16 SEER cooling meets Energy Star standards with two-stage compressor technology
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor adjusts to demand, reducing runtime and energy waste
- Two-stage burners and condenser provide quieter operation at 71 dB during low-stage cycles
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty plus 10-year parts coverage offers solid protection
Cons
- Requires licensed technician installation, adding $500-1,500 to total system cost
- Specs show 3 ton tonnage but title indicates 2 ton, creating potential sizing confusion
- R410A refrigerant phaseout concerns, though widely available until 2030
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in climate zones 4-6 replacing 15+ year old systems and wanting measurable heating bill reductions. Contractors serving residential customers who prioritize mid-tier efficiency without high-end pricing.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in very cold climates needing 3 ton capacity should verify the tonnage discrepancy before ordering, as the listing shows conflicting information.
Installation
This gas appliance demands professional installation. Technicians must connect gas lines per code, vent the flue through plastic/PVC ducting to the right side, and wire the 115V single-phase electrical connection. Breaker sizing requires 15.7-20 amps. Budget 8-12 hours for experienced crews. Many jurisdictions mandate licensing. Improper installation risks gas leaks, carbon monoxide, and system failure.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage includes lifetime protection on the heat exchanger, the component most prone to failure. The full unit carries 10-year replacement warranty, and parts receive 10-year coverage with online registration. This is respectable protection but trails premium manufacturers offering 25-year heat exchanger warranties. Registration requirement adds one step but unlocks full benefits.
Specifications
| SKU | GMEC960603BN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 24,000 |
| Heating BTU | 60,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| 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) | 115.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 16 |
| Condenser Stages | Two Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 3/4" |
| Max Breaker Size | 20 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 15.7 amps |
| Tonnage | 3 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| 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 | This gas appliance requires a trained technician to install. Improperly connecting gas lines or improperly connecting a gas flue or venting may result in death. By purchasing this item, you are agreeing that you are using a trained technician to install this gas appliance. We will not be responsible for any injury or property damage arising from improper service or service procedures. Whoever installs or services this unit assumes responsibility for any personal injury or property damage which may result. Many jurisdictions require a license to install this equipment. 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 | 7/8" |
| 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
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