Goodman Air Conditioner Review

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Our Review of Goodman Air Conditioners

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.

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Company Pros and Cons

This section covers Goodman Air Conditioner’s high-level pros and cons. Keep these points in mind as you read the rest of the review.

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What Is Goodman’s Air Conditioner Pricing?

The cost of Goodman air conditioners is 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.

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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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. If you want extra comparison, check out our Bryant vs Goodman HVAC review. This should give you an idea of whether or not Goodman is the right company for your home cooling needs.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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