Review
The Goodman GMEC961205DN is a 5-ton split system pairing a 120,000 BTU gas furnace with a 60,000 BTU air conditioning condenser. It occupies a practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market, offering legitimate efficiency credentials without premium pricing. Two-stage heating and cooling technology automatically adjusts output to match load, improving both comfort and operating costs compared to single-stage alternatives. This SKU has been stable in Goodman's lineup for several years, suggesting solid real-world performance data.
The furnace achieves 96% AFUE, meaning 96 cents of every heating dollar converts to home heat, with only 4% lost in exhaust. The condenser carries a SEER1 rating of 16, which exceeds EnergyStar thresholds and qualifies for utility rebates in most states. Two-stage burners and a scroll compressor provide operational flexibility, and the multi-speed ECM motor matches airflow to demand. Refrigerant R410A is standard, though technicians should know this refrigerant charge is sealed at factory and requires specialized recovery equipment during service.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means minimal fuel waste and lower winter heating costs for extended operation
- Two-stage burner and condenser automatically modulate to match heating and cooling demand, improving comfort
- SEER1 rating of 16 exceeds EnergyStar requirements, earning federal tax credits in many jurisdictions
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor provides flexibility for ducted systems up to 2000 CFM
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty protects against the most expensive component failure
- Scroll compressor technology delivers quiet operation at 75 dBA, typical for residential units
Cons
- Product price listed as $0, indicating this is a specification sheet rather than a live retail listing
- Two-stage cooling limits efficiency gains during partial-load conditions compared to variable-capacity competitors
- A-coil configuration requires careful horizontal/upflow ducting layout, which some installations cannot accommodate
- Requires licensed technician installation due to gas piping safety requirements, adding $1,200-$2,500 to project cost
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners replacing a failed gas furnace in regions with cold winters where heating dominates annual energy use, and contractors building standard residential HVAC systems for moderate climates. This unit delivers excellent value when incentives apply.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in hot climates prioritizing cooling efficiency, owners with tight attic or basement spaces (unit is 34.5 inches tall), or those needing variable-capacity compressors for extremely quiet operation.
Installation
Professional installation is mandatory for this gas appliance due to safe fuel and venting connections. The 115V single-phase 60Hz electrical requirement fits standard residential service, though a dedicated 40-60 amp circuit is required. PVC exhaust venting simplifies flue installation compared to metal pipe. Upflow A-coil configuration works for attics or closets with 34.5 inches of vertical clearance. Plan 2-4 hours for an experienced technician to set burner stages and run system tests.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this unit with a lifetime heat exchanger warranty (parts only, not labor) when registered online. The compressor and other components carry 10-year replacement coverage plus an additional 10 years of parts availability. This warranty structure is competitive for the price tier and reflects moderate confidence in component durability. Registration is straightforward and unlocks full coverage, making it a worthwhile step at startup.
Specifications
| SKU | GMEC961205DN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 60,000 |
| 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) | 75 |
| 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 | 60 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 37.2 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
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