When you’re shopping for a new wall-mounted air handler, the options can feel overwhelming. Carrier, Rheem, Amana, and Goodman all offer models designed to keep your home comfortable. But which one strikes the best balance of performance, value, and future-readiness?
The Goodman 2 Ton R-32 Compatible Wall-Mounted Air Handler (Model AWST24SU1308) stands out because it combines affordability with forward-looking features like R-32 compatibility and a built-in TXV. But how does it stack up against the competition?
Mark, our DIY-minded homeowner who’s been through multiple installs, puts it this way:
“Carrier had the fancy bells and whistles. Rheem felt solid. Amana was decent. But Goodman? Goodman gave me what I actually needed at a price I could live with—and it’s R-32 ready. That sealed the deal.”
Let’s dive into the comparison.
📊 Key Comparison Factors
When comparing wall-mounted air handlers, most homeowners (and pros) look at:
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Refrigerant compatibility
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Expansion device technology (TXV vs. piston)
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Heater options
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Efficiency & SEER2 compliance
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Price & value
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Warranty & service support
We’ll walk through each factor with Goodman vs. Carrier, Rheem, and Amana.
❄️ Refrigerant Compatibility
Goodman AWST24SU1308
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R-32 compatible from the factory.
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Future-proof as R-410A phases down under the AIM Act.
Carrier Wall-Mounted Air Handlers
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Many models still rely on R-410A, though Carrier is rolling out R-32 in select systems.
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Transition may mean limited backward compatibility.
Rheem Wall-Mounted Units
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Also transitioning from R-410A to R-32, but adoption is uneven across product lines.
Amana Wall-Mounted Units
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Similar to Goodman (since they’re under the same Daikin umbrella). R-32-ready models are emerging, but not universal.
👉 The EPA SNAP program lists R-32 as one of the approved next-generation refrigerants replacing R-410A
Winner: Goodman (clear R-32 compatibility now).
🔧 Expansion Device Technology
Goodman
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Built-in TXV (thermal expansion valve).
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Regulates refrigerant flow for higher efficiency and better humidity control.
Carrier
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Many models also use TXVs, especially in mid- to high-tier units.
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Some entry-level models may still rely on pistons.
Rheem
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Similar to Carrier—TXV-equipped in mid-tier and premium lines.
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Piston options exist in budget models.
Amana
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Like Goodman, most models now include TXVs, given Daikin’s emphasis on efficiency.
👉 The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) highlights TXVs as a critical feature for maximizing system performance.
Winner: Goodman and Amana (TXV factory-installed, even in value models).
🔥 Heater Options
Goodman AWST24SU1308
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Optional 8 kW supplemental heater kit.
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Perfect for all-electric homes or cold climates.
Carrier
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Offers various electric heat kits, typically 5–15 kW depending on size.
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Costs more due to brand premium.
Rheem
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Provides similar electric heat strip options, often sized 5–10 kW.
Amana
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Mirrors Goodman’s offerings, with heat kits integrated into air handler design.
👉 The DOE notes that supplemental electric resistance heat is often necessary in colder regions, though less efficient than heat pumps (DOE Heating Guide).
Winner: Tie — all brands offer supplemental electric heat options.
⚡ Efficiency & SEER2 Compliance
Goodman
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Built to meet new SEER2 standards (rolled out in 2023).
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Optimized for paired Goodman condensers.
Carrier
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High-efficiency leader—often offers advanced variable-speed blowers and slightly higher SEER2 ratings.
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Premium pricing reflects this.
Rheem
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Mid- to high-efficiency units meet SEER2.
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Offers inverter-driven systems with strong humidity control.
Amana
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Similar to Goodman—solid SEER2 compliance with R-32 readiness.
👉 The U.S. DOE sets minimum SEER2 standards by region (DOE Efficiency Standards).
Winner: Carrier (efficiency leader), but Goodman offers strong value compliance.
💲 Price & Value
Goodman
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Known for affordability.
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AWST24SU1308 priced lower than comparable Carrier or Rheem units.
Carrier
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Premium pricing. Homeowners pay more for brand recognition and dealer networks.
Rheem
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Mid-tier pricing, usually between Goodman and Carrier.
Amana
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Slightly above Goodman but below Carrier—marketed as “value with a premium touch.”
👉 The EIA reports HVAC costs vary widely, but brand choice plays a big role in equipment cost (EIA HVAC Data).
Winner: Goodman (best cost-to-feature balance).
🛡️ Warranty & Support
Goodman
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Industry-leading 10-year limited parts warranty (with registration).
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Broad network of independent contractors.
Carrier
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10-year warranty, but often requires installation by authorized Carrier dealers to validate.
Rheem
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Strong warranty terms, similar to Goodman.
Amana
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Exceptional coverage on select models (some include lifetime compressor warranties).
👉 According to Energy Star, warranty coverage is a critical factor in total system value (Energy Star HVAC Guide).
Winner: Amana (slightly stronger coverage), Goodman (close second).
🏠 Mark’s Real-World Take
Mark compared bids from multiple contractors for his 1,200 sq. ft. home:
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Carrier: $6,200 installed
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Rheem: $5,200 installed
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Amana: $4,900 installed
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Goodman: $4,300 installed
His choice? Goodman.
“Carrier was tempting, but I couldn’t justify the price. Rheem was solid, but Goodman gave me R-32 compatibility, a TXV, and the 8 kW heat option—all for way less. For me, it was the smart buy.”
📋 Side-by-Side Comparison Chart
| Feature | Goodman AWST24SU1308 | Carrier | Rheem | Amana |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerant | R-32 compatible | Mostly R-410A | Mostly R-410A | Transitioning to R-32 |
| Expansion Device | Built-in TXV | TXV in mid/high-tier | TXV in mid/high-tier | TXV standard |
| Heater Option | 8 kW kit available | 5–15 kW kits | 5–10 kW kits | Similar to Goodman |
| SEER2 Compliance | Yes | Yes, often higher | Yes | Yes |
| Price Tier | Value | Premium | Mid-tier | Mid-value |
| Warranty | 10-year | 10-year (dealer req.) | 10-year | 10-year+, some lifetime |
💡 Mark’s Final Takeaway
Mark’s bottom line:
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If you want premium features and don’t mind paying more: Carrier is the luxury choice.
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If you want balance of cost and quality: Rheem is solid.
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If warranty is your top priority: Amana edges out the others.
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If you want the best overall value, future-ready design, and strong warranty: Goodman wins.
“For me, Goodman hit the sweet spot. Affordable, efficient, R-32 ready, and easy to maintain. That’s all I needed.”
In the next topic we will know more about: Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Goodman Wall-Mounted Air Handler Efficient
