Note: Before you dive into the specific brand review, we highly recommend you to read our elaborate Heat Pump Buying Guide in advance, there are several crucial steps you need to take before you even start to think about the brand.
Goodman’s Features
1. Compressors With Lifetime Warranty
One of its unique services is the offer for a lifetime warranty for its compressors. This is quite reassuring for potential clients of the Goodman heat pumps. A faulty compressor could spell doom for a heat pump, in addition to being quite costly to replace. The reason they offer the lifetime warranty is the revolutionary suction accumulator. The primary reason for compressor breakdown is the accumulation of refrigerant in the suction lines. Any refrigerant in liquid form is trapped in this suction accumulator, ensuring trouble-free compressor operation. Other unique features are a gas muffler at the discharge point and a compressor sound blanket. Consequently, one is assured that their heat pump will remain within the noise levels. Most manufacturers claim noise levels can go as low as’ but have no way of assuring clients that.
Related article: HVAC Warranty Myths Debunked
2. Copper Tube Coils
Today, more and more brands start to use aluminum coils to decrease the cost of manufacture. If your aluminum coils break down, you need to replace the whole coils instead of patching up the hole on the Copper tube. So the repair cost for aluminum coils will be 3-4 times as expensive. Goodman keeps on using the copper tube is good for customers.
Related article: Copper VS Aluminum – Condensers and Evaporators Coils
Goodman’s Limitation
No High-end Models
The highest efficient Goodman air conditioner is 18 SEER. In most cases, 16-18 SEER is enough for residential using and long-term saving. However, if you want an 18+ SEER or variable cooling air conditioner, we recommend you to check Trane, Carrier, Lennox or American Standard. The highest SEER for Trane and Carrier is 21, and in 2016 Lennox just launch their 26 SEER XC25 air conditioner.
What’s the Difference Between Goodman and Amana?
Actually it is very common to see several brands from a same manufacturer in the HVAC industry. In some cases, the only difference is the logo and the units are 100% same. However, this is not the case for most Amana and Goodman models. Here is the quote from BaldLoonie who is the global moderator of HVAC-Talk forum. He has compared the Goodman GSC13 with Amana ASC13 Model for so many details.
GSC13
Many sizes use recip compressors, scroll 3.5 ton and up
Stamped top, hang a fan motor, cheapest way to do it.ASC13
100% Copeland scroll.
Heavy compressor cover for sound reduction.
Heavy duty top and venturi for sound reduction.
2 speed fan motor, extra sound reduction in mild weather.
Compressor protection switches.
Copeland Comfort Alert diagnostics module tied in with pressure switches to lock out the compressor in event of problem, saves compressor.
As we can see in the above quote, Amana is actually a high-end product which will take you more money for that.
Model’s Analysis and Recommendation
| Model | SEER | HSPF | Compressor | Features | Coastal Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSZC18 | 18 | 9.5 | Two-stage | compressor Life-time warranty,ComfortNet | Yes |
| DSZC16 | 16 | 9.5 | Two-Stage | compressor Life-time warranty, ComfortNet | Yes |
| SSZ16 | 16 | 9.5 | Single-Stage | compressor Life-time warranty | No |
| GSZ16 | 16 | 9.0 | Single-Stage | No | |
| SSZ14 | 14 | 8.5 | Single-Stage | No | |
| GSZ14 | 14 | 9.0 | Single-Stage | No |
Note: “Coastal” models have additional anti-corrosion features to protect it from the ocean-related corrosion.
GSZ Series: The GS series was designed for the budget-minded consumer. The two models in the series provide efficiencies of 15 and 16 SEER respectively, and both units have an HSPF rating of 9. Every unit includes a single-stage Scroll compressor, liquid-line filter drier and suction-line accumulator.
DSZC Series: The DSZC series incorporates all the features in the GSZ series and adds a two-stage compressor and ComfortNet Communications System compatibility. Efficiencies range from 16-18 SEER, and 9.5 HSPF for both models.
Quick Take-Aways for Models
When you’re looking for the most cost-effective heating, the strategy is to find the balance between furnace cost and energy costs. Let’s use the zone map to identify efficiency levels for each that strike that balance:
|
Zone
|
Suggested SEER and HPSF
|
Cost-effective Models
|
| Zones 1 & 2 (hot) | 18-19 SEER/9.5-10 HSPF |
DSZC18
|
| Zone 3 & 4 (moderate) | 14-15 SEER/8.5 HSPF |
GSZ14, SSZ14
|
| Zone 5 (cool) | 15-17 SEER/8.5-9.5 HSPF |
SSZ16, GSZ16
|
| Zone 6 (cold) | (18 SEER/9.5 HSPF) or (AC + Furnace) | DSZC16 , SSZ16 or (AC + Furnace) |
| Zone 7 (very cold) | (18 SEER/9.5 HSPF) or (AC + Furnace) | DSZC16 , SSZ16 or (AC + Furnace) |
| Plan to move in the next few years | 13-14 SEER/8 HSPF | SSZ14 |
Note: In Zones 6 and 7, the coldest zones, a system with an efficient gas furnace and small central air conditioner is also a good option.
What Contractor Say About Goodman?
Goodman has one of the most solid reputations in the HVAC market, yet many people don’t know much about them. Amana and Goodman are come from the same company and Goodman has a lower pricing for most models. Goodman is one of our favorite manufacturing companies and has the most hassle-free warranty of all major HVAC products.
-Tim From ASM Air
Goodman Heat Pump Prices By Model
In order to offer an objective and equal comparison, we set the baseline below:
Each model includes: 3 ton outdoor condenser, 1300-1400 cfm air handler, programmable heat pump thermostat.
| Models | System Only | System Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Goodman DSZC18 | $2,170 | $6,300 |
| Goodman DSZC16 | $1,880 | $5,550 |
| Goodman GSZ16 | $1,810 | $5,480 |
| Goodman GSZ14 | $1,530 | $5,420 |
| Goodman GSZ13 | $1,180 | $5,190 |
Goodman Heat Pump Prices By Size
Before installing your heat pump, a HVAC contractor needs to size your system by “Manual J” calculation. This will take into accounts factors like where you live, how much insulation you have, windows types and directions, and everything else. Then you will get a right sized heat pump unit ranging from 1.5-ton to 5-ton.
Each Unit includes: Goodman DSZC16 3-ton outdoor condenser, 1300-1400 cfm air handler, programmable heat pump thermostat.
| Heat Pump Size | Home Size | System Only | System Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 ton | 600 - 1000 sf | $1,280 | $4,250 |
| 2 ton | 1001 - 1300 sf | $1,470 | $4,600 |
| 2.5 ton | 1301 - 1600 sf | $1,700 | $5,210 |
| 3 ton | 1601 - 1900 sf | $1,900 | $5,520 |
| 3.5 ton | 1901 - 2200 sf | $2,200 | $5,920 |
| 4 ton | 2201 - 2600 sf | $2,670 | $6,240 |
| 5 ton | 2601 - 3200 sf | $3,130 | $7,260 |
We’ve developed a handy heat pump sizing calculator to help you get a more accurate estimated size you need.
Reader Submitted Prices and Feedback
| Brand & Model & SizePriceHome LocationHome Size |
|---|
| Goodman 18seer 2 speed 4 ton heat pump with variable speed air handler$6,200 parts and labor with 8.25% state taxWaco1700 with 12 foot ceilings in several rooms |
| Includes Honeywell communicating thermostat with iphone control via internet and new lineset. This replaces a 12 seer 20 year old Lennox heat pump. After 2 years use average electric usage down about 20%. My highest electric bill 175.00 in triple digit summer heat, winter electricity peak 90.00 with daily lows in high 20s. |
| Goodman GSZC18$10,800(Include Ductwork)Richmond, VA1500 sq ft |
| Remove old crawlspace AH and oil furnace, remove & replace all ductwork (15 ducts), air return. Install heat pump with 10kw heat strip, programmable thermostat. Located in crawlspace... |
| Goodman 3 ton 16 seer heat pump$3,750Palm Bay1600 sq ft |
| Our system ran perfectly for the first two years after installation. However, it started giving us grief two years later. Since then, we have had the Freon refilled twice. Although it continues to run, the contractor is yet to identify the source of the leak. |
| Goodman GPH15M$5,300Miami, FL2200 sqft |
| The Goodman has been quite troublesome. This is primarily due to the inefficiency in getting rid of condensation. Since installation of the system two years ago, I have noticed mold growing in the house. This has been a huge turnoff for me. Am disappointed and I believe Goodman need to fix this problem with the humidity. |
| Goodman GPH13$6,200Vermillion, KS1900 sqft |
| Since I installed the system some time back, it has been running quite smoothly. However, it does get a bit noisy when defrosting. About two weeks ago, the entire unit shut down and I called the contractor. He informed me that the fan had to be replaced. However, they did not have it in stocks and it could take weeks for a new one to arrive. |
| Goodman SSZ14$6,700Clayton, NC2000 sqft |
| I bought the system about eleven months ago. During that time, it was operating perfectly without any problems. However, three months ago, I noticed the Freon was leaking, which I topped up myself. When the Freon started leaking again, I contacted the customer service and was told to send my warranty card. However, they lost it and claim there is nothing they can do to help me. I feel very disappointed although the system is still working. |
| Goodman SSZ16$5,100Virginia Beach, VA1800 sqft |
| Living near the sea, we go through heat pumps quite fast. While other heat pumps typically last only five or six years around here, our last Goodman unit lasted ten years. We have been using this heat pump for three years and we expect to continue using it for a while. |
| Goodman GSZ13$4,900Blountville, TN2200 sqft |
| I purchased my Trane XR15 in 2010. I was pulled to it by the low costs and higher efficiency. Since I installed the system, I have had to replace the evaporator coil twice The installation technician commented that the build quality of the Trane has really dropped. However, it still runs efficiently and I would definitely buy a Trane again if I had to. |
How to Get the Best Goodman Heat Pump Prices
- Firstly, keep in mind that installation quality is always the most important thing for heat pump project. So never sacrifice contractor quality for lower price.
- Secondly, remember to look up the latest tax credit and rebates.
- Thirdly, ask for at least 3 bids before you make the decision. You can click here to get 3 free estimates from your local contractors, and this estimate already takes rebates and tax credit into consideration and filter unqualified contractors automatically.
Lastly, once you chose the right contractor, remember to use the tactics from this guide: homeowners tactics when negotiating with HVAC dealer to get the final best price.
Feel free to ask any question by leaving a comment, we will answer any question with actionable tips.
Have had Goodman for 8 yr.’s and it has been riddled with problems. I have had repairs yearly, some years more than once. I would never recommend this product.
I have a 4 ton Goodman 6 years and it’s been broke 3 years now and can’t get it to work right
Our furnace has been running all the time since we moved in a couple months ago. The inside furnace runs when the outside unit is quite. Is that normal for a heat pump to operate?
What is difference between two stage and single stage. Thanks
I am having a Model GSZ16 Goodman Heat Pump unit installed. I live in north Florida and from looking at your Zone map it may not be the correct model for my area. What do you think? Thanks
Don’t forget the de humidifier!
😓
I currently have a 14 yr old 4 ton Bryant Heat Pump that has an evaporator coil that is leaking (in air handler) and has very little R22 left. I am not sure of the CFM output but would like to replace with a Goodman SSZ16 4 ton unit. Will this size work with my current home duct work or will a technician need to come out to get a measurement?
Also I have been told that it is very important to have a qualified technician do the install. Can you recommend a certified Goodman technician for the installation from the Daytona Beach area?
Since you had such a great run with that Bryant, why on earth would you switch brands? Although, I’ve installed two Goodman’s and find them to be great. Oddly enough, it didn’t take much to stop the super expensive Trane I installed new on 2012 -lasted only five years in a two bedroom vacation condo.
Hi
the compressor on my 2007 GSH130601 unit blew the common lug out a few days ago. I want to replace the whole condensor unit with a SSZ140601AJ. WILL that work ? When and why did Goodman stop manufacturing the SSZ140601AJ Condensor units.
Hey:
Thanks for the great information and advice.
One question though is when I look at split systems I see several manufacturers who produce split systems that work fairly efficiently at -5F or even lower, but I don’t see a Trane, Lennox or other stand-alone heat pumps that even mentions the low temperature performance of their products. Can you explain why?
Thanks.
John
I live in Tulsa OK, we have both extreme temp in heat of summer and cold of winter, I am a mechanical contractor. When you do pay attention to the compressor maker, all will agree Copeland is best, which is the Heart of the unit, and the warranty of compressor. You will notice Goodman has same compressor and warranty as top 3 manufacturers. When you get into high efficient equipment you lose your savings by the amount of bells and whistles you have on your system, the more bells the more times you will see service call charge and whatever the serviceman wants to throw in on ticket, cause he isn’t coming for free, and that bell or whistle is not going to be free either, even though it has warranty.
I ended up using Aire Solutions (Kevin Junior) to have my new AC system installed. I was referred to them by neighbor who lives 6 houses down from in Clearwater, close to US 19 and Sunset Point Road. The main reason why I chose these guys, is that they came in and found my problem, which was a gaping hole in my coil. Once I saw the problem, I spoke with my wife and we chose to go with a new Goodman AC System…as that is what my neighbor purchased from them several years prior. So far its been 8 months and I am loving my new AC unit as well as my new AC Company over at Aire Solutions. They are no nonsense, straight up and gave me a New High Efficiency Goodman 3 Ton 16 SEER AC System for less than $5,000.00 – which was a real blessing. Thank you Aire Solutions. If you want a quality AC Contractor call them. Here is their phone number: 727-498-5900!
I live in Pittsburgh, PA. I have an old heat pump which is having issues with the outside unit so though of replacing it.
One contractor came in to provide estimates for Lennox product and quoted 2.5 / 3 ton for “2000 sqft” home.
XP20 for $13,000 (3 ton)
14HPY for $6,630 (2.5 ton)
EL16XP for 9,454 (2.5 ton)
Any suggestion on what brand I should go for; and about the above estimates.