Goodman has been a part of the HVAC industry since 1982, offering split AC systems, packaged AC units, heat pumps, and gas furnaces. Based in Houston, Texas, the company is best known for maintaining below-average pricing for its equipment, making it a popular option for homeowners looking for budget HVAC equipment.
In this Goodman air conditioner review, we’ll look at the overall quality, durability, performance, and warranty coverage you can expect from the company and whether or not its products are worth considering for your needs.
Sold on Goodman ACs? Use the tool below to find one of the best HVAC installation companies near you.
Our Review of Goodman Air Conditioners
Goodman is a budget-friendly brand for HVAC equipment, with prices ranging from around $3,500 to $5,500 per unit. Compared to some premium options like Trane and Lennox, even the higher-end Goodman HVAC systems are about a third of the price.
With that lower cost, you get lower efficiency ratings, less durability, and a higher risk of needing AC system maintenance in the future. These stem from cheaper materials, such as aluminum condenser coils instead of copper, single-speed condensers in the cheaper models, and a lack of features.
Goodman doesn’t make our list of the best air conditioner brands, primarily because the efficiency ratings of its products are below-average and its pricing isn’t quite as low as other budget options, like Rheem and Ruud.
However, the 24.5 SEER rating from Goodman’s most efficient model — the GVXC20, which we recommend most from Goodman — is quite impressive, given the cost. Goodman products are eligible for rebates of up to $350, which pales compared to some of the more efficient options. That said, several Goodman AC systems are Energy Star-rated.
Pros and Cons of Goodman Air Conditioner Units
The table below includes a quick look at some of the upsides and drawbacks of purchasing an air conditioner from Goodman.
Goodman AC Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable pricing, with prices around half to a third of some higher-end options
- 10-year limited warranty is on par with the industry standard.
- Provides a good variety of cooling system types
Cons
- Products are eligible for minimal energy efficiency rebates.
- Efficiency ratings average around 15.0 SEER, while more efficient brands hit 28.0 and average closer to 20.0
What Is Goodman’s Air Conditioner Pricing?
Goodman air conditioners cost an average of $4,500, and the prices for the condenser units range from $3,500 up to $5,500. This is well below the industry average, so this is considered a decent brand if you’re looking to save money upfront. Remember that the lower up-front cost translates to lower efficiency ratings for most of Goodman’s equipment, which means lower energy savings over time.
The table below provides a quick breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a Goodman AC system, depending on the model you buy.
Low-end Models | Mid-range Models | Premium Models |
$3,500–$4,200 | $4,200–$4,800 | $4,800–$5,500 |
We should also note that these prices do not indicate an entire system cost, as they only include condenser units. You’ll also need air handlers and ductwork. The installation labor cost for your AC system should also be considered since DIY installation is not recommended. The pricing for these will vary based on the equipment you purchase and your local HVAC contractor.
Goodman Air Conditioner Models Comparison
At the time of writing, Goodman offers 13 air conditioner models, which aren’t split into product lines like many competitors. We recommend avoiding lower-efficiency products like the GSX13 and the GSXN3 — these have SEER and SEER2 ratings of 14 or lower. We especially don’t recommend these in areas with high demands for cooling, like the southern United States.
Model | Available sizes | Average cost | Compressor speed | Compressor type | Efficiency rating | Energy Star-rated |
GSX13 | 1.5–5 tons | $3,000–$4,200 | Single-speed | Reciprocating | 13 SEER | No |
GSXN3 | 1.5–5 tons | $3,000–$4,200 | Single-speed | Reciprocating | 13.4 SEER2 | No |
GSXN4 | 1.5–5 tons | $3,000–$4,200 | Single-speed | Reciprocating | 14.4 SEER2 | No |
GSXB4 | 1.5–5 tons | $3,000–$4,200 | Single-speed | Reciprocating | 14.3 SEER2 | No |
GSXM4 | 1.5–3 tons | $3,000–$4,200 | Single-speed | Reciprocating | 14.3 SEER2 | No |
GSX14 | 1.5–5 tons | $4,200–$4,800 | Single-speed | Reciprocating | 15 SEER | No |
GSX16 | Not available | $4,200–$4,800 | Single-speed | Scroll | 16 SEER | Yes |
GSXH5 | 1.5–5 tons | $4,200–$4,800 | Single-speed | Scroll | 15.2 SEER | Yes |
GSXC16 | 2–5 tons | $4,200–$4,800 | Single-speed | Scroll | 16 SEER | Yes |
GSXC7 | Not available | $4,200–$4,800 | Two-speed | Scroll | 17.2 SEER | Yes |
GSXC18 | 2–5 tons | $4,200–$4,800 | Two-speed | Scroll | 19 SEER | Yes |
GSXV9 | 2–5 tons | $4,800– $5,500 | Variable-speed | Swing or scroll | 22.5 SEER | Yes |
GVXC20 | 2–5 tons | $4,800– $5,500 | Variable-speed | Swing or scroll | 24.5 SEER | Yes |
Our top recommendation is the GVXC20. This model has the company’s highest efficiency and comes equipped with a few features that make it more user-friendly and convenient.
In the sections below, we’ll provide crucial information about each model Goodman offers.
Goodman GSX13
Fast Facts
Available sizes
1.5 to 5 tons
Average cost
$3,000 to $4,200
Compressor speed
Single-speed
Compressor type
Reciprocating compressor
Efficiency rating
13 SEER
Energy Star rated
No
The GSX13 is Goodman’s baseline model, which has the lowest efficiency of all options, a single-speed condenser and blower motor, and no Wi-Fi connectivity for remote climate control. Depending on the interior temperature and house size, the reciprocating compressor and 5mm refrigerant tubing can lead to inadequate cooling. However, the smaller refrigerant tube does mean less stress on the environment.
Goodman GSXN3
Fast Facts
Available sizes
1.5 to 5 tons
Average cost
$3,000 to $4,200
Compressor speed
Single-speed
Compressor type
Reciprocating compressor
Efficiency rating
13.4 SEER2
Energy Star rated
No
The GSXN3 is one step up from the baseline model and provides a nominally higher efficiency rating of 13.4 SEER. This unit isn’t Energy Star-certified, although it uses a Venturi valve to improve efficiency and airflow through your home. As another entry-level model from Goodman, this doesn’t offer remote connectivity and features a single-stage compressor.
Goodman GSXN4
Fast Facts
Available sizes
1.5 to 5 tons
Average cost
$3,000 to $4,200
Compressor speed
Single-speed
Compressor type
Reciprocating compressor
Efficiency rating
14.4 SEER2
Energy Star rated
No
The GSXN4 has a 14.4 SEER2 rating, thanks partly to the permanent split capacitor (PSC) condenser motor, which provides a higher power factor and a lower current draw. Ultimately, this results in greater efficiency and lower energy bills over time. However, this is a single-speed system, and its SEER2 rating still prevents it from being considered Energy Star-certified.
Goodman GSXB4
Fast Facts
Available sizes
1.5 to 5 tons
Average cost
$3,000 to $4,200
Compressor speed
Single-speed
Compressor type
Reciprocating compressor
Efficiency rating
14.3 SEER2
Energy Star rated
No
This air conditioner model from Goodman is a single-speed unit that uses a reciprocating compressor to balance durability and cost. Its 14.3 SEER2 rating leaves a lot to be desired, though. This is a highly affordable unit, but it’s likely to cost you more in the long run due to a higher running cost than more efficient models.
Goodman GSXM4
Fast Facts
Available sizes
1.5 to 3 tons
Average cost
$3,000 to $4,200
Compressor speed
Single-speed
Compressor type
Reciprocating compressor
Efficiency rating
14.3 SEER2
Energy Star rated
No
The GSXM4 is designed for use in multi-family homes. It uses a reciprocating compressor for durability and maintains efficiency by coupling it with a permanent split capacitor (PSC) condenser fan motor. The result is a SEER2 rating of 14.3, below the industry average and not high enough to be certified by Energy Star.
Goodman GSX14
Fast Facts
Available sizes
1.5 to 5 tons
Average cost
$4,200 to $4,800
Compressor speed
Single-speed
Compressor type
Reciprocating compressor
Efficiency rating
15 SEER
Energy Star rated
No
The GSX14 has a maximum efficiency rating of 15 SEER, but the average operative rating is 14 SEER — so it still isn’t certified by Energy Star. This model uses a single-speed, reciprocating compressor, contributing to the relatively low efficiency rating. This model uses the PSC condenser fan motor, which helps bolster efficiency.
Goodman GSX16
Fast Facts
Available sizes
Not available
Average cost
$4,200 to $4,800
Compressor speed
Single-speed
Compressor type
Scroll compressor
Efficiency rating
16 SEER
Energy Star rated
Yes
The GSX16 is the most affordable model offered by Goodman that’s also certified by Energy Star. It has a maximum SEER rating of 16 and averages around 15 SEER, which is the cutoff for certification. The bump in efficiency is due mostly to the unit utilizing a scroll compressor, which is more costly but consumes less energy for equivalent cooling.
Goodman GSXH5
Fast Facts
Available sizes
1.5 to 5 tons
Average cost
$4,200 to $4,800
Compressor speed
Single-speed
Compressor type
Scroll compressor
Efficiency rating
15.2 SEER
Energy Star rated
Yes
The GSXH5 is the most affordable model from Goodman, equipped with ComfortBridge technology. That means the unit keeps track of its own performance and makes adjustments to save energy and run more efficiently overall, exclusive of thermostat adjustments.
The video below explains how this technology works and why it’s useful:
This unit also achieves a SEER rating of 15.2 and Energy Star certification by using a more costly but efficient scroll compressor.
Goodman GSXC16
Fast Facts
Available sizes
2 to 5 tons
Average cost
$4,200 to $4,800
Compressor speed
Two-speed
Compressor type
Scroll compressor
Efficiency rating
17 SEER
Energy Star rated
Yes
This AC model also includes ComfortBridge technology to help maximize your home’s energy efficiency and reduce wear on your HVAC equipment. It uses a Copeland Two-stage Ultratech scroll compressor, which means your system can run at two speeds — high and low — to control temperature more accurately and use less electricity. It also includes a PSC condenser fan motor for higher efficiency. All of these perks combined lead to a SEER rating of 17 and Energy Star certification.
Goodman GSXC7
Fast Facts
Available sizes
Not available
Average cost
$4,200 to $4,800
Compressor speed
Two-speed
Compressor type
Scroll compressor
Efficiency rating
17.2 SEER2
Energy Star rated
Yes
This unit uses the same Copeland Two-Stage Ultratech scroll compressor as the previous model, leading to greater comfort in your home and more efficient operation. It also includes ComfortBridge technology to improve efficiency, allowing you to connect to it via Bluetooth for diagnostics, troubleshooting, and temperature control. This unit has a decent SEER2 rating of 17.2.
Goodman GSXC18
Fast Facts
Available sizes
2 to 5 tons
Average cost
$4,200 to $4,800
Compressor speed
Two-speed
Compressor type
Scroll compressor
Efficiency rating
19 SEER
Energy Star rated
Yes
The GSXC18 features the Copeland two-stage compressor for even airflow and better temperature regulation, the PSC condenser fan motor for greater efficiency, and ComfortBridge capabilities. This model also includes a high-pressure switch to help prevent the unit from overheating — which is, unfortunately, an issue with some budget ACs.
Goodman GSXV9
Fast Facts
Available sizes
2 to 5 tons
Average cost
$4,800 to $5,500
Compressor speed
Variable-speed
Compressor type
Swing or scroll compressor, depending on tonnage
Efficiency rating
22.5 SEER2
Energy Star rated
Yes
This AC features an electronically commutated motor (ECM), which performs more efficiently than a two-speed motor and is far better than a single-speed motor. It can operate at numerous speeds, from 0% to 100% capacity. This provides ultimate control over your interior temperature and helps reduce energy costs. This unit also features ComfortBridge technology and a high-pressure switch to avoid overheating.
Goodman GVXC20
Fast Facts
Available sizes
2 to 5 tons
Average cost
$4,800 to $5,500
Compressor speed
Variable-speed
Compressor type
Swing or scroll compressor, depending on tonnage
Efficiency rating
24.5 SEER
Energy Star rated
Yes
The GVXC20 is Goodman’s most advanced split AC system. It offers access to ComfortBridge technology, uses a variable-speed inverter-driven compressor for superior efficiency and better interior temperature control, and provides the company’s highest efficiency rating, 24.5 SEER. This is one of the most expensive options from Goodman, but it will also save you more than all other models on electricity over time, given the higher efficiency.
How Do Goodman Air Conditioners Compare to Top Competitors?
Goodman can be a good brand for AC systems, especially if you want to keep installation costs down up-front. The company positions itself as a budget-friendly brand, and although it’s not quite as inexpensive as some options from companies like Rheem, it does deliver higher efficiency ratings for its premium condenser units.
The table below includes some information on how Goodman compares to competitors. This should give you an idea of whether or not Goodman is the right company for your home cooling needs.
Features | Goodman | Carrier | Frigidaire |
Premium Unit Cost | $4,800–$5,500 | $12,000–$15,000 | $4,500–$5,600 |
Low-End Unit Cost | $3,500–$4,200 | $3,000–$8,000 | $2,500–$3,500 |
Top Efficiency Rating | 24.5 SEER | 24.0 SEER | 20.0 SEER |
Additional Features | ComfortBridge technology, variable-speed compressors, sound-dampening equipment, remote temperature control | Variable-speed compressors, sound-dampening equipment | Variable-speed compressors (called IQ Drive), sound-dampening equipment |
Available AC Types | Split AC system, packaged unit, heat pump | Split AC system, packaged unit, ductless, heat pump | Split AC system, packaged unit, ductless, heat pump |
Sound Level | 57–75 decibels | 51–73 decibels | 57–76 decibels |
Warranty | 10-year parts limited warranty and unit replacement warranty | 10-year limited parts warranty and unit replacement warranty | 10-year limited warranty and 10-year comfort pledge |
What Are Goodman Air Conditioner’s Warranty Options?
Goodman air conditioners all come with a five-year limited warranty for parts, which aligns with the industry standard. The company encourages customers to register their products to access the extended warranty. If you register and qualify for the extended warranty from Goodman, you’ll get access to a 10-year limited warranty for parts plus a 10-year unit replacement warranty on select models.
Goodman also offers a limited lifetime compressor warranty if you register your product within 90 days of installing it. This is an uncommon offering and a nice bonus — especially for a company that is so budget-friendly.
What Are Goodman Air Conditioner Reviews From Homeowners?
On paper, the Goodman brand is a great budget brand that offers some decent efficiency ratings at relatively low prices. However, we understand that providing our readers with the most accurate information possible requires more than a look at the company’s equipment specifications. That’s why we read through over 100 customer reviews posted on sites like Google Reviews, Better Business Bureau (BBB), and TrustPilot to see what kind of experience actual customers had with the manufacturer.
Unfortunately, many of the reviews we found were negative, with customers noting that they experienced severe system issues within just a few years of installing the Goodman AC units. It appears that the budget-friendly Goodman is a low-cost solution, but the quality and durability you get are in line with the price you pay.
Not all of the reviews are negative, though, and plenty of homeowners chose Goodman and are pleased with both the equipment performance and the company’s response to warranty claims. It’s important to note that many of the top HVAC brands also have overwhelmingly negative reviews, so Goodman’s ratings on BBB and other review sites don’t necessarily mean that the company’s equipment isn’t worth the money.
Features To Consider for Goodman Air Conditioners
As a budget brand, Goodman has a pretty impressive array of air conditioner features to choose from. We’ll list the options we recommend considering when choosing an AC system from Goodman below.
- ComfortBridge technology: Many higher-end Goodman ACs are equipped with ComfortBridge technology. This allows your system to monitor itself and adjust how it runs to maximize efficiency and help maintain a comfortable living area.
- Compressor speed: Goodman ACs come with a single-speed, two-speed, or variable-speed compressor. Single-speed compressors leave you with the least consistent interior temperature control and the highest energy consumption. Variable-speed compressors are the most efficient and maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Two-speed compressors fall somewhere in the middle.
- Compressor type: Goodman uses a few different types of compressors in its air conditioning units. A reciprocating compressor is the least efficient while choosing a model with a scroll or swing compressor will yield higher efficiency ratings and greater savings over time.
- Dehumidifiers: Most Goodman furnaces and ACs can be equipped with a dehumidifier to help regulate interior humidity, which can also play into comfort in your living area.
- SEER/SEER2 rating: The efficiency rating of your AC is crucial, as it dictates how much electricity your system will consume to cool your home. A higher SEER or SEER2 rating will save you money over time, although it will drive upfront costs higher. We recommend a SEER rating of at least 15.0, the cutoff for Energy Star certification.
- System size: Some Goodman air conditioners come in a handful of sizes from 1.5 to 5 tons. Other models come in fewer size ranges, so be sure to choose a model that comes in the size you need for your home.
So, Is a Goodman Air Conditioner Worth It for Your Home?
Goodman might be a good brand of air conditioner for your home if you’re looking to keep up-front costs low but don’t necessarily want to compromise on energy efficiency. The company has prices that are well below average and sit at half or even a third of the cost of some models from higher-quality AC manufacturers.
The durability you’ll see from your Goodman AC won’t be as good as what you could expect from those higher-cost companies, and there have been some customer complaints about the warranty claim process and the overall quality of the equipment from Goodman. However, we maintain that Goodman is a good budget option, providing decent equipment, good warranty coverage, and a nice array of features for less than you’ll pay with most of the other top air conditioner brands.
FAQs About Goodman Air Conditioners
Does Goodman make a good AC?
We consider Goodman AC units decent but far from the best. Its well-below-average pricing makes it a good pick for a budget AC company. The company has good efficiency ratings for its products, although they aren’t as high as other, more expensive options. The durability is also just OK, and many customer complaints regarding the product lifespan have been filed with the BBB. According to customer reviews, the company also doesn’t have the best warranty claim response.
Is Goodman as good as Trane?
Trane is considered a higher-end AC company than Goodman. Although the energy ratings from Trane are on par with those offered by Goodman, Trane products have a better track record for reliability and durability. Trane products are also eligible for nearly triple the energy efficiency rebate — up to $1,050 — that Goodman products are, up to $350.
How long does a Goodman AC last?
Most AC systems last for between 15 and 20 years. However, since Goodman is a budget AC brand, we’d expect the lifespan to be closer to 10 to 15 years. You can help extend the life of your system by carrying out routine, preventative maintenance on your AC system.
Provided you register your product, your warranty lasts for ten years and includes a unit replacement guarantee. This is an outstanding perk that provides peace of mind to customers. It’s worth noting that there have been some customer complaints about Goodman not honoring its warranties.
Who is Goodman AC made by?
Daikin Industries, Ltd., a multinational HVAC manufacturer based in Japan, manufactures Goodman AC systems. This company also owns Amana, which is similar in quality and price to Goodman for central air conditioners.
Methodology: How We Evaluated the Best Air Conditioner Brands
The experts at Today’s Homeowner provide only the most transparent and accurate information for all your home improvement needs. Our reviews of HVAC companies focus on what matters most to homeowners, including efficiency, sound ratings, cost, and more.
To gather our information, our experts review publicly available information, gather quotes, speak with HVAC contractors, and analyze consumer reviews.
A company can score a total of 100 points across five categories. This score is then converted into a five-star scale. We studied dozens of the best air conditioner brands to develop the following rating methodology:
- Affordability (20 points): Material and labor costs are the two most important factors in assessing affordability. However, we consider more than just these factors and evaluate how air conditioner brands accommodate a range of budgets.
- Efficiency (25 points): An air conditioner’s efficiency directly affects your monthly energy bills. We look to see if air conditioner brands offer high-efficiency units and ensure each unit passes the minimum SEER and EER requirements for each region.
- Sound Rating (20 points): The best air conditioners can cool your home with little to no sound. We rate air conditioner brands based on how quiet their systems are. Companies that offer air conditioners that produce fewer than 57 decibels do the best in this category.
- Products (25 points): We evaluate the company’s brands and whether they offer multiple equipment options and high-efficiency units. Companies that offer split-system, packaged systems, ductless systems, heat pumps, portable units, and window air conditioners score the best in this category.
- Warranty (10 points): The best air conditioner brands back up their products and services with extensive warranties. We research each company’s material and workmanship warranties and evaluate them based on comprehensiveness and length.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.