Review
The Goodman GMEC961205DN combines gas furnace and air conditioning into one horizontal unit designed for tight spaces where vertical clearance is limited. This 4-ton system arrives priced competitively in Goodman's lineup, positioning itself between budget equipment and high-end models. It targets contractors and homeowners doing standard residential replacements where efficiency improvements matter but premium features don't justify added expense.
The heating side delivers 120,000 BTU with 96% AFUE efficiency using a two-stage burner that modulates output for better comfort. The cooling side provides 48,000 BTU at 15 SEER using a scroll compressor with two-stage operation, improving part-load efficiency. Two-stage equipment runs longer at lower speeds during mild weather, reducing cycling stress and improving dehumidification compared to single-stage competitors. The ECM blower motor supports up to 2000 CFM airflow with variable speed capability.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency with 120,000 BTU heating capacity reduces winter heating bills significantly
- Two-stage burner and two-stage scroll compressor allow equipment to modulate output, improving comfort and efficiency
- ENERGY STAR certified air conditioning side delivers 15 SEER cooling performance
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor handles up to 2000 CFM with better humidity control than single-speed alternatives
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty demonstrates manufacturer confidence in core component longevity
- A-coil horizontal configuration fits easily in tight attic or closet spaces common in retrofit work
Cons
- Product listing shows conflicting tonnage specs (title says 4-ton, specs show 5-ton), creating confusion for sizing calculations
- At 74 dB, compressor noise is moderate to high for residences, particularly during cooling season
- Requires licensed technician installation due to gas fuel requirements, adding project cost and complexity
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in existing homes replacing broken furnace-AC combos will appreciate the balanced efficiency gains without premium pricing. Contractors performing retrofit replacements benefit from the horizontal configuration and Goodman's reliable supply chain.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers seeking premium ultra-high efficiency (18+ SEER) or those with tight space constraints requiring compact units should evaluate other manufacturers first.
Installation
Professional installation is mandatory since this unit burns natural gas or propane. Technicians must connect refrigerant lines (3/8 inch liquid, 7/8 inch suction), gas supply, electrical (115V single-phase), and PVC exhaust venting with right-side flue location. Electrical requires 27.7 to 45-amp breaker sizing. Proper leveling prevents compressor damage and noise issues.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman covers the heat exchanger for life, unit replacement for 10 years, and parts for 10 years with online registration. This is solid mid-market coverage that rewards customers for following proper registration procedures. The lifetime heat exchanger warranty specifically protects against the costliest potential failure.
Specifications
| SKU | GMEC961205DN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 48,000 |
| Heating BTU | 120,000 |
| 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) | 74 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 154.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 16 |
| Condenser Stages | Two Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 45 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 27.7 amps |
| Tonnage | 5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| 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 | 2000 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
Frequently Asked Questions
Affiliate disclosure: IndustrialRank earns a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have independently reviewed.