Review
The Goodman GMVC960804CN is a workhorse horizontal combo unit positioned for budget-conscious homeowners seeking measurable efficiency upgrades. This system pairs a gas furnace with an air conditioner in a single horizontal chassis, eliminating the need for outdoor condenser placement. The 3.5-ton capacity handles mid-sized homes effectively, and Energy Star certification means it meets EPA efficiency thresholds that unlock utility rebates in many regions. Goodman's reputation for straightforward, no-frills engineering translates to fewer proprietary components and easier parts availability.
Performance specs tell the real story here. The cooling side delivers 35,000 BTU at 18 SEER2 efficiency using R410A refrigerant with a two-stage scroll compressor. The heating side fires up to 80,000 BTU with 96% AFUE across two burner stages, meaning 96 cents of every dollar spent on gas converts to usable heat. The variable-speed ECM blower automatically adjusts airflow from 0 to 1,600 CFM based on demand, reducing short-cycling and improving temperature consistency. Operation at 71 dB is moderate, roughly equivalent to background office noise.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 18 SEER2 cooling efficiency qualifies for Energy Star and available rebates in most states
- 96% AFUE furnace rating minimizes heating costs with two-stage burner operation for part-load efficiency
- Two-stage scroll compressor and variable-speed ECM blower reduce runtime noise to 71 dB while improving comfort
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides long-term peace of mind on the most expensive component
- Horizontal A-coil configuration with plastic PVC flue venting simplifies attic or crawlspace installation
Cons
- Spec sheet lists conflicting tonnage, 3 Ton in title versus 3.5 Ton in specs, requiring clarification before purchase
- Requires licensed technician installation due to gas line connections, adding $1,500 to $2,500 to total project cost
- 71 dB noise level is higher than premium competitors, noticeable during compressor cycling in quiet neighborhoods
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners with existing horizontal furnace installations in attics or crawlspaces who want verified efficiency gains without oversizing equipment. Contractors serving moderate climate zones where systems run balanced heating and cooling cycles throughout the year.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone needing a split-system outdoor condenser should look at separate condensing units instead, as this horizontal configuration is designed exclusively for indoor furnace pairing.
Installation
Installation requires a licensed HVAC technician due to gas line connections, venting configuration, and refrigerant handling. The horizontal A-coil design fits standard attic or crawlspace mounting locations. Electrical connection uses single-phase 115V 60Hz power with breaker requirements between 21.9 and 35 amps. PVC plastic flue venting (mounted right-side) simplifies routing compared to metal ductwork. Total installation time typically runs 6 to 8 hours for experienced teams.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage includes lifetime protection on the heat exchanger plus 10 years of parts coverage with online registration. The heat exchanger warranty is the standout, since that component runs $800 to $1,200 to replace. Parts coverage includes compressor, motors, and controls. Note that labor is not covered, and registration is required to activate the full term.
Specifications
| SKU | GMVC960804CN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 35,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| 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) | 141.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 18 |
| Condenser Stages | Two Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 35 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 21.9 amps |
| Tonnage | 3.5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| 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 | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368835 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Flue Location | Right |
Frequently Asked Questions
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