Review
The Goodman GMVC960403BN pairs a 96% AFUE gas furnace with a 16 SEER air conditioner in a complete system designed for upflow installations. Goodman occupies middle market territory, offering legitimate efficiency upgrades without the premium pricing of Bryant or Carrier equipment. This unit delivers 40,000 BTU heating capacity and 24,000 BTU cooling output, making it suitable for homes in 2,000 to 2,500 square feet depending on climate and insulation.
Performance-wise, the furnace's two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower maximize efficiency by running at reduced capacity during mild weather. The air conditioner uses a scroll compressor with two-stage cooling and R410A refrigerant, delivering solid seasonal performance. At 71 dB, it's quieter than many older units but may be audible during peak operation. The system requires 115V single-phase power with a 15.7 to 20-amp breaker, fitting standard residential electrical infrastructure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency meets or exceeds most modern building codes and qualifies for rebates in many regions
- Two-stage compressor and burner modulation reduce energy waste during mild weather, lowering utility bills throughout the year
- 16 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for ENERGY STAR certification and potential utility incentives
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor maximizes comfort by adjusting airflow to actual heating and cooling demand
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides peace of mind on the most expensive component to replace
Cons
- Actual tonnage specification lists 3 tons despite marketing as 2 ton system, creating potential oversizing issues in smaller homes
- 71 dB noise level at full capacity may be noticeable in quiet rooms or bedrooms near the furnace
- Requires licensed technician installation in most jurisdictions, adding $800 to $2,000 to project cost
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates upgrading from 10-year-old equipment and willing to invest in professional installation should consider this system. It's ideal for those seeking reliable performance with meaningful energy savings rather than premium features.
Consider Alternatives If
Budget-conscious buyers needing the absolute lowest upfront cost or homeowners in very small spaces where 3-ton capacity would cause short cycling should explore smaller-tonnage alternatives.
Installation
Installation requires a licensed HVAC technician in most jurisdictions, making this a professional-only project. The furnace accepts PVC exhaust flue, simplifying venting in many homes. Technicians must verify proper gas line sizing, refrigerant charge, and airflow balance across the ductwork. Budget 8 to 12 hours for complete installation, including ductwork inspection and system commissioning.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides lifetime coverage on the heat exchanger and 10 years of parts warranty with online registration. This is competitive in the mid-tier market and protects against catastrophic furnace failures. Labor warranty typically requires separate extended service contracts purchased at installation time.
Specifications
| SKU | GMVC960403BN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 24,000 |
| Heating BTU | 40,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Lifetime Heat Exchanger and 10 Years Parts with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 71 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 114.000000 |
| 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 | Goodman Brochure Goodman Install Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman 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 |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368841 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
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