Goodman AC Review: Pros, Cons, Performance, Top Picks

Published by 
AllThingsHVAC
Last updated: 
February 15, 2017

This Goodman AC guide provides performance and technical specifications for the five Goodman models, efficiency ratings and the pros and cons of choosing Goodman.

Goodman started making air conditioners in 1982. It quickly gained impressive market share with low prices and excellent warranties. On the other hand, there have always been concerns about Goodman quality, though it’s possible that will change following Daikin Industries’ purchase of Goodman’s purchase in 2012. For now, Goodman remains in the low-cost niche. Japanese company Daikin is the largest manufacturer in the world of HVAC equipment. Goodman is headquartered in Houston, TX and has four US manufacturing plants.

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Goodman AC Brand Overview

The five Goodman AC models provide a limited range of efficiency, performance and price for consumers to consider.

Models GSX13, GSX14 and GSX16 are single-stage heat pumps. The number is the SEER rating, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio. The higher the number, the more efficiently the system uses refrigerant to capture heat inside your home and transfer it outside. The Goodman DSXC16 and DSXC18 are two-stage heat pumps. Goodman does not make a modulating heat pump, putting it behind brands like Trane (see our Trane AC review here), Lennox and Carrier.

Goodman AC Technical Specifications

  • The single-stage ACs cool at full capacity (and full noise) whenever running. Single-stage AC tends to cool past the thermostat set point creating mild temperature fluctuations you might notice. The GSX models use a universal scroll compressor of average quality, at best.
  • The top Goodman single-stage AC is the Goodman GSX16.
  • The two-stage Goodman AC models run at about 65% capacity (and noise level) most of the time to deliver gentler, more balanced air conditioning that won’t cool past the set point. They boost capacity to 100% only when you lower the thermostat setting or outside temperatures climb quickly and the AC needs to catch up.
  • Both the Goodman DSXC16 and DSXC18 use the highly regarded Copeland two-stage Ultratech scroll compressor. These are Goodman’s best overall ACs.
  • The “C” in the nomenclature of the DSXC16 and DSXC18 means the units are compatible with the Goodman ComfortNet Communications System, an upgrade (about $400) that optimizes efficiency and climate control.
  • Goodman AC units are available in capacities from 1.5 tons (18,000 BTU) to 5.0 tons (60,000 BTU), though half-ton increments are not offered in all model numbers.

Pros and Cons of Goodman Air Conditioners

Here are the advantages that make Goodman one of the best-selling AC brands along with a few disadvantages which might affect your purchase decision.

Goodman AC Pros

  • Goodman ACs are the value leaders in the market due to their reasonable quality and low prices;
  • Most Goodman AC models are backed by an outstanding warranty – Goodman as a brand has the best replacement warranties in the industry;
  • Goodman 16 SEER and 18 SEER ACs are Energy Star rated and might be eligible for energy company rebates where you live – check here for rebates;
  • Goodman central air conditioners use R-410A refrigerant which is believed to do less harm to the environment than older refrigerants;
  • Goodman still makes a 13 SEER AC, the least efficient allowed by law, which is a good choice where the air conditioning is needed infrequently;
  • Goodman is a national brand, so finding a dealer/installer is easy, and parts for maintenance and repair are readily available – at least in the continental US.

Goodman AC Cons

  • While making affordable ACs, Goodman’s long-term reliability record is not as good as other top-selling brands like Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Heil and Maytag;
  • While the parts warranties are excellent, labor is generally not covered beyond one year – the industry standard – so you might face expensive repair bills if your Goodman AC breaks down;
  • For those in extremely hot climates or who want the most ecofriendly cooling regardless of where they live, there are more efficient ACs available including the Lennox XC25;
  • (26 SEER), Maytag PSA4BI IQ Drive (25.5 SEER) and many from 19-24 SEER;
  • Goodman’s best ACs are two-stage models, and they don’t provide the level of indoor comfort, temperature balance and dehumidification for your home as modulating central air conditioners made by several leading brands provide;
  • Goodman air conditioners have historically been wholesaled to any HVAC installer, and you might get inferior installation if the company you choose isn’t factory-trained to install Goodman.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Goodman AC

The first issue to address is the historically inferior quality of Goodman to other top brands. Among HVAC experts, the consensus is that if you want a decent air conditioner with a 12 to 15-year lifespan, then Goodman offers good value. If you want a dependable, 20-year AC, look elsewhere. Keep in mind that this might change with Goodman in the future. Daikin also bought Amana and upgraded the quality of its entire lineup that had been identical to Goodman’s.

The next issue is your climate and use. Goodman AC models GSX13 and GSX14 are suited to cool climates or locations like vacation homes or guest apartments that don’t get heavy use. Despite paying progressively more for the GSX16, DSXC16 or DSXC18, the higher upfront cost will be paid back pretty quickly in very warm climates. If your summers are extreme, choose the 18 SEER Goodman AC or look at more efficient central air conditioners from other brands.

Goodman AC Reviews Conclusion

Do you know folks that might find this Goodman AC guide useful? If so, please pass it along to your friends and followers. They might also be considering a Goodman air conditioner for their home and will appreciate the information from our Goodman AC reviews.

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