GR9S96 vs GR9S120: Which Goodman Furnace Should You Choose?
When shopping for a new furnace, homeowners often find themselves comparing models within the same brand lineup. Goodman, a trusted name in HVAC, offers a variety of high-efficiency gas furnaces designed to suit different home sizes, climates, and budgets.
Two popular models—the GR9S96 and the GR9S120—often come up in the conversation. Both are high-performing, reliable options, but they differ in capacity, application, and cost.
This guide will help you understand the differences, see how these furnaces stack up against competitors like Carrier, and decide which model is right for your home.
1 | Quick Overview of Both Models
GR9S96
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Capacity: 80,000 BTUs
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Efficiency: 96% AFUE (Science Direct - Gas Furnace)
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Orientation: Upflow/Horizontal
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Single-stage operation
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Ideal for medium-sized homes
GR9S120
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Capacity: 120,000 BTUs
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Efficiency: 96% AFUE
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Orientation: Upflow/Horizontal
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Single-stage operation (NREL - High Efficiency Natural
Gas Furnaces) -
Ideal for larger homes or colder climates
Both furnaces are designed to provide affordable comfort with a strong warranty, but their differences in size and capacity make them better suited to different homes.
2 | Why Capacity Matters
Choosing between an 80,000 BTU and 120,000 BTU furnace isn’t just about getting “more power.” It’s about matching the furnace to your home’s heating load.
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Undersized furnace → runs constantly, struggles to heat home, wears out quickly.
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Oversized furnace → short cycles, wastes energy, creates uneven temperatures.
Regional studies like the Ameren Missouri HVAC Right Sizing Guide emphasize that oversizing is one of the most common—and costly—installation mistakes homeowners make (Ameren Missouri – HVAC Right Sizing PDF).
3 | Key Differences Between GR9S96 and GR9S120
| Feature | GR9S96 (80,000 BTU) | GR9S120 (120,000 BTU) |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Capacity | 80,000 BTU | 120,000 BTU |
| Efficiency | 96% AFUE | 96% AFUE |
| Ideal Home Size | 1,600–2,400 sq. ft. | 2,800–3,600 sq. ft. |
| Climate Suitability | Mild to moderate | Colder climates |
| Cost Range (Installed) | $3,800–$5,000 | $4,800–$6,200 |
4 | Pros & Cons of the GR9S96
Pros
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Affordable upfront cost
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High efficiency (96 AFUE)
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Flexible installation (upflow/horizontal)
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Perfect for mid-sized homes
Cons
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May be undersized for large homes
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Single-stage operation means less precision in comfort
5 | Pros & Cons of the GR9S120
Pros
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Higher capacity for bigger homes
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Same efficiency rating as GR9S96
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Reliable Goodman warranty
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Suitable for colder climates
Cons
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Higher upfront cost
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Risk of short cycling in smaller homes
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Larger footprint
6 | Comparison with Competitor: Goodman vs Carrier
Carrier is one of Goodman’s closest competitors. How do they compare?
| Brand & Model | Efficiency | Capacity Options | Price Range | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goodman GR9S96 | 96% AFUE | 80,000 BTU | $3,800–$5,000 | 10-year parts |
| Goodman GR9S120 | 96% AFUE | 120,000 BTU | $4,800–$6,200 | 10-year parts |
| Carrier Comfort 95 | 95–96% AFUE | 80k–120k BTU | $4,500–$7,000 | 10-year parts |
Carrier furnaces are often more expensive but may include quieter multi-stage options. Goodman typically offers better upfront value for homeowners on a budget (Dallas Heating & AC – Carrier vs Goodman).
7 | Case Studies
Case 1: The Medium Homeowner (GR9S96)
Lisa in Tennessee installed the 80,000 BTU 96% AFUE Upflow/Horizontal Single Stage Goodman Gas Furnace in her 2,000 sq. ft. home. The furnace was the perfect size, keeping her family warm with lower gas bills compared to her old 80% unit.
Case 2: The Large Homeowner (GR9S120)
Derek in Minnesota opted for the GR9S120 in his 3,400 sq. ft. home. The larger capacity ensured comfort during harsh winters, though the upfront cost was higher.
Case 3: Goodman vs Carrier
Michelle in Illinois debated between Carrier and Goodman. She chose the GR9S96, saving nearly $1,500 upfront, and reported no difference in comfort compared to her neighbor’s Carrier unit.
8 | FAQs
Q: Can I use a GR9S120 in a smaller home for “extra” heat?
Not recommended—oversizing can cause short cycling and higher bills.
Q: Is there a difference in efficiency between these two Goodman models?
No, both are 96% AFUE. The difference is in capacity.
Q: How do Goodman and Carrier warranties compare?
Both offer 10-year limited parts warranties, but Goodman’s registration process is straightforward.
Q: Does a higher BTU furnace last longer?
Not necessarily. Longevity depends on correct sizing and maintenance.
9 | Homeowner’s Checklist
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✅ Know your home’s square footage
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✅ Get a Manual J load calculation
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✅ Consider climate when choosing capacity
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✅ Compare upfront cost vs. long-term efficiency
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✅ Register your furnace within 60 days for full warranty
Final Takeaway
The choice between Goodman’s GR9S96 and GR9S120 comes down to one thing: your home’s heating needs.
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Choose the GR9S96 if you own a mid-sized home in a moderate climate.
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Choose the GR9S120 if you have a larger home or live in a colder region.
And if you’re comparing Goodman with Carrier? Both are excellent brands, but Goodman delivers comparable efficiency at a more budget-friendly price point.
Whichever model you choose, remember that proper sizing, professional installation, and understanding your Goodman Furnace Warranty are just as important as the furnace itself.
