Goodman GMSS96 Review: Is the Two-Stage Furnace Worth It for Minnesota?

The Goodman GMSS96 is Goodman's two-stage, 96% AFUE gas furnace—a step up from the single-stage GMEC96 that we reviewed separately. If you're replacing your furnace in Minnesota and wondering whether the extra cost of a two-stage unit is justified, this review is for you. We'll cover how the GMSS96 works, what it costs, how it performs in extreme cold, and whether it's the right choice for your home.

GMSS96 Quick Specs

• AFUE: 96%
• Stages: Two-stage gas valve (65% and 100% capacity)
• Blower: Multi-speed PSC (not variable-speed ECM)
• BTU range: 40,000–120,000 BTU/hr input
• Venting: Direct-vent (dual PVC pipe), Category IV
• Cabinet width: 17.5" (fits most standard alcoves)
• Warranty: 10-year parts, Lifetime heat exchanger (registered)
• AHRI certified: Yes

How Two-Stage Operation Works

A two-stage furnace has a gas valve that can operate at two firing rates—typically 65% and 100% of full capacity. On most days in Minnesota when the temperature is 10°F to 30°F (not the extreme cold), the furnace runs on the low stage. It only switches to full capacity when demand requires it—during the coldest nights or when trying to recover from a setback.

Why this matters:

• Longer, gentler cycles: The furnace runs at low fire for longer periods rather than blasting at full heat and shutting off. This eliminates the "blast of hot air then cold" feeling from single-stage furnaces
• Better humidity control: Longer cycles move more air across any humidifier, improving moisture distribution
• Quieter operation: Low-stage firing is noticeably quieter than full-capacity operation
• 5–10% additional efficiency: Running at partial capacity reduces heat loss up the flue during start/stop cycles

Compare to the single-stage option in our GMEC96 single-stage review and our variable-speed vs. single-stage guide.

GMSS96 vs. Single-Stage GMEC96: Which Should You Choose?

Here's the honest comparison:

For most Minnesota homeowners, the GMSS96 is worth the price premium if comfort is a priority. The longer low-stage cycles virtually eliminate hot/cold swings and make the furnace much less noticeable during operation.

GMSS96 vs. GMVC96 (Variable-Speed): The Next Step Up

Goodman also makes the GMVC96, which pairs a two-stage gas valve with a variable-speed ECM blower motor. The ECM blower:

• Uses 60–75% less electricity than PSC motors
• Provides even smoother airflow modulation
• Better humidity control and air filtration
• Quieter still, especially at low speeds

The GMVC96 costs $300–$600 more than the GMSS96. For larger homes or homeowners who run the fan continuously for air filtration, the electricity savings typically justify the upgrade. For smaller homes or budget-focused buyers, the GMSS96 hits a good sweet spot.

Performance in Minnesota's Climate

The GMSS96 handles Minnesota winters well. At 96% AFUE, it extracts nearly all the energy from the natural gas it burns. The two-stage operation means:

• During moderate cold (0°F to 20°F), the furnace runs on low fire most of the time—comfortable and efficient
• During extreme cold (-10°F to -20°F), the furnace switches to high fire as needed—no performance degradation
• Recovery from a setback temperature is efficient because the furnace can ramp to full capacity to recover quickly, then drop back to low fire to maintain

Gas furnaces don't lose capacity in cold weather the way heat pumps do—see our furnace vs. heat pump comparison for the full story on that.

Installation Requirements

Like all 96% AFUE furnaces, the GMSS96 requires:

• PVC exhaust and intake pipes (Category IV, typically 2" or 3" schedule 40 PVC)
• Condensate drain for the moisture that condenses in the heat exchanger
• Proper gas line sizing—see our gas line sizing guide
• A Minnesota mechanical permit (required for all furnace replacements)

Installation by a licensed Minnesota HVAC contractor typically costs $600–$1,200 for labor. See our furnace installation day guide for what to expect.

Reliability and Warranty

Goodman has significantly improved its reliability and quality control over the past decade. The GMSS96 carries:

• Lifetime heat exchanger warranty (registered within 60 days of installation)
• 10-year parts warranty (registered)
• Parts availability through thousands of HVAC distributors nationwide

The two-stage gas valve is the most notable additional component vs. a single-stage furnace. Modulating valves have become very reliable in modern furnaces; issues are uncommon and typically covered under warranty during the first 10 years.

Bottom Line

The Goodman GMSS96 is an excellent choice for Minnesota homeowners who want better comfort than a single-stage furnace at a price point below the premium variable-speed models. The two-stage operation makes a real, noticeable difference in comfort—particularly in open floor plans or homes where temperature consistency is important.

If your budget allows the $200–$400 premium over the GMEC96, the GMSS96 is worth it. If variable-speed blower performance is important, consider the GMVC96 at a further step up.

Furnace Direct sells the GMSS96 at factory-direct pricing—no contractor markup on the equipment. Browse our furnace collection or contact us to confirm which BTU size is right for your home.