Goodman model numbers look like random strings of letters and numbers, but they actually encode everything you need to know about a unit — fuel type, capacity, efficiency, blower type, and more. Here's how to decode them.
Goodman Furnace Model Number Format
A typical Goodman furnace model number looks like: GMVC960804CN
Here's what each part means:
| Position | Characters | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | G | G = Goodman; A = Amana | G |
| Fuel type | M | M = Natural gas; P = Propane; E = Electric | M (natural gas) |
| Product type | V | V = Variable speed; S = Single stage; EC = ECM | V (variable speed) |
| Stages | C | C = Two-stage; S = Single-stage | C (two-stage) |
| AFUE efficiency | 96 | Two digits = AFUE percentage | 96% AFUE |
| BTU input (thousands) | 08 | Two digits × 1,000 = BTU input | 80,000 BTU input |
| Cabinet width | 04 | Cabinet width code | 17.5" wide |
| Venting config. | C | C = Upflow/horizontal; D = Downflow; U = Upflow only | C (upflow or horizontal) |
| Revision | N | Letter = Manufacturing revision | N (current revision) |
Common Goodman Furnace Model Prefixes
| Model Prefix | AFUE | Stages | Blower Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GMVC96 | 96% | Two-stage | Variable-speed ECM | Best overall for MN |
| GMSS96 | 96% | Single-stage | Multi-speed PSC | Budget high-efficiency |
| GMEC96 | 96% | Single-stage | ECM variable-speed | Single-stage with ECM blower |
| GMVC80 | 80% | Two-stage | Variable-speed ECM | 80% with max comfort |
| GMSS80 | 80% | Single-stage | Multi-speed PSC | Entry-level / rentals |
BTU Codes Reference
| Model Digits | BTU Input | 96% AFUE Output BTU | Typical Home Size (MN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04 | 40,000 | 38,400 | Under 900 sq ft |
| 06 | 60,000 | 57,600 | 900–1,400 sq ft |
| 08 | 80,000 | 76,800 | 1,400–2,000 sq ft |
| 10 | 100,000 | 96,000 | 2,000–2,600 sq ft |
| 12 | 120,000 | 115,200 | 2,600–3,200 sq ft |
| 14 | 140,000 | 134,400 | 3,200+ sq ft |
Goodman AC Model Numbers (GSX/GSXC/GSXH Series)
Goodman central AC models follow a similar pattern. Example: GSXC180481
- G = Goodman brand
- S = Split system (outdoor unit)
- X = AC (no heat); H = Heat pump
- C = Two-stage; (no letter or N = single-stage)
- 18 = SEER rating (18 SEER)
- 048 = Capacity in thousands of BTU/hr (48,000 BTU = 4-ton)
- 1 = Revision number
How to Find Your Current Furnace Model Number
The model number is on a sticker on the outside of the furnace cabinet — usually on the side or inside the front door panel. It's typically 10–14 characters. The serial number is nearby and encodes the manufacture date (useful when buying a replacement).
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