Review
The Goodman GMEC960803BN represents a practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market. This two-stage combination system integrates an 80,000 BTU gas furnace with a 24,000 BTU (2-ton equivalent) air conditioner in one compact upflow A-coil design. Goodman has built its reputation on reliable equipment that balances performance with affordability, and this SKU delivers on both fronts for contractors and homeowners seeking efficient climate control without flagship pricing.
Performance metrics here are genuinely impressive. The furnace achieves 96% AFUE, meaning 96 cents of every fuel dollar converts to usable heat, while the air conditioner delivers 16 SEER cooling efficiency. Two-stage operation on both heating and cooling lets the system modulate output to match actual demand, reducing short-cycling and wear. The ECM multi-speed blower motor maxes out at 1,200 CFM and runs quietly at 71 dB, providing better dehumidification than single-stage units during shoulder seasons.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency exceeds most mid-range competitors and minimizes fuel waste
- 16 SEER cooling rating qualifies for Energy Star certification and reduces summer electricity costs
- Two-stage compressor and burner optimize part-load efficiency for variable weather conditions
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor provides quiet operation at 71 dB and better humidity control
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty protects against catastrophic failure, plus 10-year unit replacement coverage
Cons
- SKU mismatch between product title (2 Ton) and specs (3 Ton) creates confusion about actual capacity
- Requires licensed technician installation, gas line work, and venting setup adds labor costs
- 71 dB noise level is moderate for a condenser unit, louder than premium models in quiet neighborhoods
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors installing complete systems for residential homes in mixed-climate regions and homeowners replacing aging furnace-AC combos who value efficiency gains over premium features. This system rewards customers with lower utility bills across heating and cooling seasons.
Consider Alternatives If
Budget-conscious buyers needing basic cooling only should consider dedicated air conditioners, and those in very cold climates may find higher AFUE ratings unnecessary.
Installation
Professional installation is mandatory for this gas appliance. Technicians must connect refrigerant lines using the 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction valve sizes, establish proper gas supply connections, vent the flue to PVC/plastic ducting on the right side, and wire 115V single-phase power with a 15.7 to 20-amp breaker. The 118-pound condenser unit fits standard outdoor pad locations, and the 34.5-inch tall, 28.75-inch deep indoor furnace integrates easily into attics or basements with upflow ductwork.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this system with a lifetime heat exchanger warranty covering the most expensive internal component, plus 10-year unit replacement and 10-year parts coverage upon online registration. This is solid middle-market protection that protects against manufacturing defects without the extended coverage of premium brands. Registration unlocks full benefits, so buyers must complete this step after purchase.
Specifications
| SKU | GMEC960803BN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 24,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| 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) | 118.000000 |
| 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 | 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
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