The Goodman 2 Ton R-32 Compatible Wall-Mounted Air Handler (Model AWST24SU1308) is built for efficiency and flexibility—but before you buy, it’s essential to know the true cost of ownership. The price tag on the unit is just one part of the equation. Accessories, installation, and even financing can add or subtract thousands from your bottom line.
Mark, our DIY-inclined homeowner, shares this advice from experience:
“When I first started shopping, I thought $1,400 for the air handler was my total cost. Wrong. By the time I added the heater kit, line set, drain, and labor, I was in for over $3,200. Still worth it—but I wish I had planned better.”
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the costs of owning and installing the Goodman AWST24SU1308—so you can budget with confidence.
🏷️ Equipment Costs
The base unit itself is usually the biggest expense.
Goodman AWST24SU1308
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Price Range: $1,200–$1,600 (depending on supplier and promotions).
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Includes: R-32 compatible design, built-in TXV, 2-ton capacity.
Optional 8 kW Heater Kit
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Cost: $200–$400.
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Provides backup heat for cold climates or emergency use.
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Essential for all-electric homes in northern regions.
Thermostat Upgrade
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Basic programmable: $100–$150.
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Smart thermostat (Wi-Fi, app control): $200–$300.
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Helps maximize efficiency and comfort.
👉 The DOE recommends programmable or smart thermostats for cost savings of up to 10% annually on heating/cooling (DOE Thermostat Savings).
🔧 Accessory Costs
Accessories ensure safe operation, proper installation, and code compliance.
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Line Sets (R-32 compatible): $150–$400 (length & quality affect cost).
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Drain Line & Safety Pan: $50–$150 (critical for attic installs to prevent water damage).
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Electrical Disconnect & Wiring: $100–$300 (required by code).
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Mounting Brackets or Pad: $75–$200 (depends on wall vs. floor setup).
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Ductwork Adjustments (if needed): $200–$800 (varies by home layout).
👉 According to the ACCA, proper accessories and clearances are essential for efficiency and serviceability (ACCA Installation Standards).
👷 Installation Labor
Labor is often the most underestimated cost.
Standard Installation
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Price Range: $1,000–$1,800.
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Includes: mounting unit, connecting line set, wiring, drain setup, and startup testing.
Additional Labor
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Electrical upgrades: $200–$600 (if panel needs modification).
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Duct adjustments: $300–$800 (if plenum or transitions are needed).
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Permits & inspections: $50–$200 depending on jurisdiction.
👉 The DOE warns that improper installation can reduce efficiency by up to 30% (DOE Energy Saver).
Mark’s story:
“I thought about DIY, but once I priced the tools and considered warranty issues, hiring a pro made sense. Labor was about half my total cost, but it paid off in peace of mind.”
📊 Total Installed Cost
When you add equipment, accessories, and labor together, you get the true installed cost.
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Goodman AWST24SU1308 Installed Cost Range:
$2,500–$3,800
This includes:
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Base air handler ($1,200–$1,600)
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Heater kit & accessories ($500–$1,000)
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Installation labor ($1,000–$1,800)
🏠 Regional Cost Variations
Prices vary widely by location due to labor rates and climate needs:
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Northeast (NY, MA, PA): $3,200–$4,000
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South (FL, TX, GA): $2,500–$3,200
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Midwest (IL, OH, MI): $2,800–$3,600
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West Coast (CA, WA): $3,200–$4,200
👉 The EIA notes that regional labor costs and electricity prices significantly impact HVAC ownership costs (EIA Residential Energy Use).
💲 Cost Comparison with Competitors
How does Goodman compare to other brands?
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Goodman: $2,500–$3,800 installed
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Carrier: $3,800–$5,200 installed
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Rheem: $3,200–$4,600 installed
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Amana: $2,800–$4,200 installed
👉 Goodman often wins on value for money, offering similar features at lower cost. Carrier tends to cost more due to brand prestige and dealer networks.
🪟 Financing & Rebates
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Utility Rebates: Many utilities offer $100–$500 rebates for Energy Star certified HVAC equipment.
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Federal Tax Credits: Qualifying heat pumps and efficient systems can earn up to $2,000 under the Inflation Reduction Act.
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Financing Plans: Many HVAC installers offer 0% interest financing for 12–24 months.
👉 Check the Energy Star rebate finder for incentives in your ZIP code (Energy Star Rebate Finder).
🛠️ Cost of Maintenance vs. Neglect
Even after installation, ongoing maintenance costs matter.
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Annual pro tune-up: $100–$200.
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Filter replacement: $10–$30 every 2–3 months.
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Coil cleaning: $20 (DIY) to $150 (pro).
Compare that to:
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Blower motor replacement: $600–$1,000.
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Coil replacement: $800–$1,500.
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Full system replacement: $4,000+.
👉 The BPI highlights that preventive maintenance reduces total ownership costs over a system’s lifespan
📋 Mark’s Budgeting Tips
Mark shares how he plans HVAC expenses:
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Rule #1: Always double the equipment price when budgeting—that’s closer to the real installed cost.
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Rule #2: Factor in $200/year for maintenance.
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Rule #3: Ask contractors for “all-in” quotes (equipment + labor + accessories).
“I used to fall for lowball quotes that didn’t include line sets or drains. Now I ask for a complete breakdown. Saves a lot of surprises.”
📊 Infographic Idea
“AWST24SU1308 Cost Breakdown”
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Pie chart showing:
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Equipment (40%)
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Accessories (20%)
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Labor (40%)
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Side bar: Installed cost comparison vs. Carrier, Rheem, Amana.
💡 Mark’s Final Takeaway
Mark sums up the budgeting challenge perfectly:
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“Don’t just budget for the unit—budget for the whole install. If you expect $1,500 but spend $3,200, you’ll feel blindsided. If you plan for $3,200 and spend $3,000, you’ll feel like you won.”
The Goodman AWST24SU1308 delivers strong performance and future-ready R-32 compatibility at a lower price point than most competitors—but only if you understand the full cost breakdown before you buy.
In the next topic we will know more about: Is a 2-Ton Air Handler Enough for Your Home? Mark’s Sizing Tips & Room Scenarios
