Review
Goodman's 4-ton gas furnace and air conditioning system targets the practical middle ground of the residential HVAC market. It bundles an 80,000 BTU modulating furnace with a 48,000 BTU cooling coil in an A-coil upflow configuration suitable for basements and utility closets. Energy Star certification and a 10-year warranty with online registration appeal to cost-conscious homeowners and contractors managing replacement cycles. This system avoids premium pricing while maintaining respectable efficiency across heating and cooling seasons.
Performance specs show a 97% AFUE rating and 16 SEER1 cooling efficiency, solid numbers for equipment in this price tier. The modulating burner adjusts output continuously rather than cycling on and off, reducing energy waste during partial-load heating. The two-stage scroll compressor operates similarly during cooling, ratcheting down capacity when outside temperatures are moderate. A variable-speed ECM blower motor adapts to heating and cooling demands, further improving efficiency and reducing short-cycle wear. Maximum airflow reaches 1,600 CFM, suitable for homes up to roughly 2,500 square feet with proper ductwork.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Modulating burner reduces heating cycles and energy waste, delivering more consistent comfort
- Variable-speed ECM blower adjusts airflow based on demand, improving both efficiency and air quality
- 16 SEER1 rating with Energy Star certification delivers measurable cooling savings in warmer climates
- Two-stage scroll compressor handles partial-load operation more efficiently than single-stage designs
- Scroll compressor technology is proven reliable and widely supported by technicians nationwide
Cons
- 97% AFUE is good but trails premium condensing furnaces reaching 98.5% or higher
- 5-ton cooling capacity misalignment with 4-ton system claim creates specification confusion
- 74 dB noise level runs louder than some competitor variable-speed systems during peak operation
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates prioritizing balanced heating and cooling efficiency at mid-range pricing. Contractors seeking reliable equipment for replacement jobs where customers want measurable energy savings without the cost of top-tier systems.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers needing extreme efficiency should consider 98.5% AFUE furnaces or heat pumps, and anyone in very hot climates might want higher SEER2 ratings above 18.
Installation
Professional installation is mandatory for this gas-fired system. Technicians must properly connect natural gas or propane lines, install the PVC exhaust flue per local codes, and set electrical service using 115V single-phase power with breaker sizing between 27.7 and 45 amps. The unit weighs 142 pounds and measures 34.5 inches tall by 21 inches wide by 28.75 inches deep, fitting standard basement installations. Many jurisdictions require licensed HVAC contractors, so verify local requirements before purchasing.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year compressor and parts warranty activates with online registration and covers manufacturing defects under normal operation. This term is industry standard for mid-tier equipment and provides reasonable protection against premature component failure. Labor is not included, so technician service calls remain the homeowner's responsibility. Registration should be completed immediately after installation to document the warranty start date.
Specifications
| SKU | GMVM970804CN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 48,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 74 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 142.000000 |
| 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 | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Installations 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 | 7424266 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
Frequently Asked Questions
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