If you're like me, you've probably asked, “Can upgrading my HVAC system actually make a difference for the planet?”
Short answer: Yes. Especially if you’re choosing an air conditioner that uses R-32 refrigerant and is built for energy efficiency—like the Goodman GPCH33631.
Let’s take a look at how horizontal HVAC design, combined with next-generation refrigerants, is making a real dent in our collective carbon footprint.
What Makes R-32 So Much Better?
Refrigerants are the working fluids inside your AC system. And not all of them are created equal.
R-32 is a newer, low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant that’s gaining momentum worldwide. In fact, ASHRAE (the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) classifies R-32 as mildly flammable (A2L) but far more environmentally sound than older types like R-22 or even R-410A.
Here’s why R-32 matters:
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GWP of 675 (vs. 2088 for R-410A)
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100% single-component, making it easier to reclaim and recycle
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More energy efficient, which means less power used for the same comfort
When you choose a unit like the Goodman GPCH33631, you're getting real-world impact with every degree you cool.
How Does Horizontal Installation Help?
It’s not just the refrigerant. The horizontal layout plays a role too.
By being compact and easy to install in tight spaces (like crawl spaces, attics, and mobile homes), horizontal AC units require less ductwork, which reduces:
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Material usage
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Labor time
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Energy loss from inefficient airflow paths
As Energy.gov notes, poorly installed ductwork can account for 30% of energy loss in cooling systems. Horizontal units are easier to integrate into well-sealed duct systems—which means lower waste and higher efficiency.
Cut the Energy Bill, Cut the Emissions
The Goodman GPCH33631 runs at 14.3 SEER2, meaning it's compliant with the latest DOE efficiency standards.
Pair that with Energy Star-certified smart thermostats (like the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium), and you're looking at:
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Better runtime management
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Lower peak energy use
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Higher overall performance
And according to the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator, trimming just 1,000 kWh a year is like avoiding 1,600 miles of driving in your gas-powered car.
Want to Future-Proof Your HVAC?
R-32 is already making waves globally. Japan, Europe, and Australia have embraced it widely, and the U.S. is catching up quickly. With the EPA's phasedown of high-GWP refrigerants, investing in R-32 today means you're ready for tomorrow.
Plus, horizontal systems are easier to access, maintain, and upgrade, making them a smart long-term bet.
Final Word from Samantha
For me, choosing the Goodman GPCH33631 wasn’t just about fitting a system in my attic. It was about choosing a cleaner, more thoughtful way to cool my home.
And hey—when sustainability saves money and energy, it’s a win-win.
In my next topic I will cover: Why Horizontal R-32 Air Conditioners Are a Smart Choice for Modern Homes
