Review
Goodman's GMVC961005CN represents a pragmatic entry point into efficient all-in-one heating and cooling. This upflow configuration condenser paired with a gas furnace delivers simultaneous heating and cooling capacity in one compact unit, measuring 34.5 inches tall by 21 inches wide. At $736, it undercuts many comparable two-stage systems while maintaining legitimate efficiency credentials. The unit is Energy Star certified and qualifies for manufacturer rebates in most regions, further sweetening the value proposition for cost-conscious homeowners and contractors.
Performance specs confirm this isn't a budget compromise. The air conditioning achieves 18 SEER1 efficiency with a two-stage scroll compressor and dual-stage condenser design, delivering real savings during cooling season. The furnace generates 100,000 BTU heating output at 96% AFUE with two-stage burners, meaning less natural gas waste and lower monthly winter bills. The variable-speed ECM blower motor maxes out at 2,000 CFM and modulates based on demand, maintaining 71 dB noise levels that won't rattle windows. R410A refrigerant and sweat-connection valve ports follow current HVAC standards.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 18 SEER1 cooling efficiency beats most competitors in this price range, saving $300-400 annually on cooling costs
- 96% AFUE furnace with two-stage burner minimizes fuel waste and reduces natural gas bills significantly
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor runs quietly at 71 dB and adjusts output for consistent comfort
- Two-stage scroll compressor provides reliable operation and better part-load performance than single-stage units
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty covers the most expensive furnace component, reducing long-term ownership risk
- Energy Star certified with rebate eligibility in most states, potentially lowering your net cost further
Cons
- Tonnage discrepancy listed as both 3 ton and 3.5 ton creates specification confusion for sizing verification
- Cooling capacity only 35,000 BTU, which is undersized relative to a true 3-ton system (36,000 BTU minimum)
- 71 dB noise level is acceptable but louder than premium two-stage units on the market
- Requires licensed technician installation due to gas connections, adding $800-1,500 to total system cost
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates replacing aging furnace-AC splits who want efficient heating and cooling without premium pricing. Contractors valuing Goodman's parts availability and straightforward service for rental properties or first-time system upgrades.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in high-capacity cooling zones needing true 3-ton or larger equipment should look at Carrier or Lennox alternatives with closer nominal tonnage matching.
Installation
This unit absolutely requires a licensed HVAC technician, not a DIY project. Gas furnaces demand proper flue venting through plastic or PVC exhaust piping, correct pressure testing, and local code compliance. The condenser requires 115V single-phase 60 Hz electrical service with a breaker between 21.9 and 35 amps. Installation complexity is moderate, with standard suction and liquid line connections, but inexperienced handling of refrigerant or gas venting creates serious safety and legal liability.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage includes a lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger, the component most prone to failure and most expensive to replace. Parts receive 10-year coverage with online registration required to activate benefits. This is standard Goodman coverage, meaningful for residential applications but less protective than some competitors offering 10-year parts coverage across the board without registration hurdles.
Specifications
| SKU | GMVC961005CN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 35,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| 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) | 143.000000 |
| 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 | 7368836 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
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