When I started comparing central air conditioners, I quickly realized that “system cost” doesn’t mean what most people think. The price on the product page only tells half the story — installation, electrical setup, and local labor can easily double that number.
If you’re researching the Goodman 5-Ton 14.4 SEER2 R-32 system (models GLXS4BA6010 + AMST60DU1300), you’re already on the right track. It’s one of the most cost-effective, energy-efficient systems available in 2025.
In this guide, we’ll break down every part of the total cost — from equipment and installation to labor, regional pricing, and long-term savings — so you know exactly what to expect before buying.
💡 Why Understanding the Full Cost Matters
Most homeowners budget only for the equipment, but about 40–50% of your total spend comes from installation, labor, and necessary materials.
Here’s why total cost awareness matters:
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⚙️ Installation quality directly affects your efficiency and warranty.
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💸 Hidden costs (permits, wiring, ductwork) can add up quickly.
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🌎 Refrigerant upgrades like R-32 can impact both labor and materials.
Think of your Goodman R-32 system like buying a car — the base model is just the start. The “driveway ready” cost is what really matters.
💰 Average Cost of a 5-Ton Goodman R-32 System (2025)
Based on 2025 national averages from HomeAdvisor and HVAC.com, here’s a realistic breakdown of what homeowners pay for Goodman’s R-32 system:
| Category | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Equipment Only (GLXS4BA6010 + AMST60DU1300) | $4,000 – $5,200 |
| Professional Installation | $3,000 – $4,500 |
| Total Installed Cost | $7,000 – $9,700 |
These numbers assume:
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Standard home with existing ductwork in good condition
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50 ft or shorter line set
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Typical electrical setup (50A, 230V)
Complex installations — attic air handlers, long line sets, or duct modifications — can push the total toward $10,000+.
📘 Verified Source: Central AC Installation Costs
⚙️ Equipment Cost Breakdown
The Goodman R-32 system includes all major components for a complete central cooling solution.
📦 What’s Included
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Goodman GLXS4BA6010 Condenser: 5-ton outdoor unit charged with R-32 refrigerant.
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Goodman AMST60DU1300 Air Handler: 5-ton indoor coil and blower for ducted systems.
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Factory Precharge: R-32 refrigerant preloaded for up to 15 ft line sets.
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Matching Coil & AHRI Certification: Guaranteed efficiency pairing.
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10-Year Parts Warranty: When registered within 60 days.
🔩 Optional Accessories
| Add-On | Typical Cost | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Line Set (7/8” suction, 3/8” liquid) | $150–$400 | Connects condenser & air handler |
| Disconnect Box / Electrical Whip | $100–$200 | NEC-required for service access |
| Condenser Pad / Wall Bracket | $80–$250 | Stabilizes outdoor unit |
| Smart Thermostat | $100–$300 | Improves control & energy savings |
When comparing quotes, make sure these items are included — they often aren’t in the “equipment-only” price.
🧰 Labor and Installation Costs
Installation costs vary by home layout and contractor expertise, but here’s what typically goes into the professional labor portion.
🛠️ Labor Cost Breakdown
| Task | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerant Line Installation | $300 – $700 | New or extended line set |
| Duct Modification | $400 – $1,000 | Required for airflow balance |
| Electrical Circuit Upgrade | $500 – $1,200 | If old circuit can’t handle 50A load |
| Condensate Drain Setup | $150 – $300 | Includes float switch & drain trap |
| System Evacuation & Charging | $200 – $500 | Includes R-32 vacuum & charge |
| Permit & Inspection Fees | $100 – $400 | Depends on city/state |
Expect the higher end of these costs if your installation involves crawl spaces, attic air handlers, or older wiring.
⚙️ Goodman systems are designed for professional installation only. Using a licensed, EPA Section 608-certified HVAC technician ensures safe handling of R-32 refrigerant and proper vacuum sealing.
🔋 What You Get for Your Investment
The Goodman R-32 5-ton system is designed for performance, reliability, and efficiency — not just initial affordability.
| Feature | Advantage |
|---|---|
| 14.4 SEER2 Efficiency | Up to 25% energy savings over 10 SEER systems |
| R-32 Refrigerant | 70% lower GWP, better heat transfer |
| High-Efficiency Coil Design | Reduces energy loss under SEER2 test conditions |
| Factory-Paired Components | Optimized airflow and balanced capacity |
| 10-Year Parts Warranty | Coverage with proper registration |
💡 Homeowners upgrading from a 10–12 SEER system can expect to save $200–$300 per year on energy bills.
⚖️ Cost Comparison: R-32 vs. R-410A Systems
R-32 and R-410A systems look similar, but performance and long-term costs differ significantly.
| Category | R-410A System | Goodman 5-Ton R-32 System |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $4,000 | $4,200 |
| Installation Cost | $3,800 | $4,000 |
| Energy Efficiency | 13.4 SEER2 | 14.4 SEER2 |
| Annual Operating Cost | $950 | $750 |
| Refrigerant Cost | Rising | Stable (future standard) |
| GWP Rating | 2088 | 675 (−70%) |
🌍 By switching to R-32, homeowners future-proof their investment against refrigerant bans and service shortages.
📗 Reference: EPA – R-32 Climate Impact Reduction
🏡 Regional Cost Differences
Labor rates and permitting vary significantly by region. Here’s what a full installation might cost depending on your location.
| Region | Avg Installed Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast (FL, GA, TX) | $7,500 – $8,500 | Hot climates, frequent installations keep costs moderate |
| Northeast (NY, MA, PA) | $8,500 – $9,700 | Higher labor rates, smaller installation spaces |
| Midwest (OH, MI, IL) | $7,000 – $8,000 | Competitive pricing, average cooling demand |
| West Coast (CA, OR, WA) | $8,000 – $9,500 | Stricter building codes increase compliance costs |
📊 Reference: National HVAC Cost Averages
⚡ Hidden or Variable Costs to Expect
Even a “straightforward” installation can have extra charges depending on your home’s condition.
| Hidden Cost | Typical Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit | $100 – $400 | Required by most municipalities |
| Old Equipment Removal | $100 – $300 | Haul-away & disposal of R-410A unit |
| Thermostat Wiring | $150 – $350 | Upgrade for smart controls |
| Duct Cleaning or Sealing | $400 – $900 | Boosts system performance |
| R-410A Recovery Fee | $75 – $200 | EPA-mandated refrigerant handling |
💡 Ask your contractor for a detailed line-item quote to avoid “surprise fees” during the job.
🧾 How to Save on Installation
There are smart ways to lower your total cost without cutting corners.
💵 Cost-Saving Strategies
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Schedule off-season installs (spring/fall) — lower demand = lower labor rates.
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Get at least three quotes — price variance between contractors can exceed $1,000.
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Use rebates and tax credits:
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ENERGY STAR-certified R-32 systems may qualify for $300–$600 rebates.
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Check your utility’s efficiency programs.
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Federal Tax Credits (2025):
Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), you can receive up to $2,000 in tax credits for energy-efficient SEER2 systems.
📘 Reference: ENERGY STAR – Federal Tax Credit Program
🧮 Long-Term ROI: Energy & Efficiency Payback
It’s easy to focus on the upfront price, but the Goodman R-32 system’s efficiency delivers long-term financial returns.
| Metric | Goodman R-32 System | Older R-410A Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $8,500 | $7,500 |
| 10-Year Energy Cost | $7,500 | $9,500 |
| 10-Year Total | $16,000 | $17,000 |
| Lifetime Savings | $1,000–$1,500 |
That’s before factoring in tax credits or rebates — which can make the Goodman R-32 option even more affordable over time.
🌱 R-32 systems reduce power consumption, lower refrigerant charge requirements, and comply with upcoming EPA HFC phase-down standards.
🧠 Samantha’s Real-World Experience
“When I got quotes for my 5-ton Goodman R-32, they ranged from $7,800 to $9,200. The installer I chose included new duct insulation, a smart thermostat, and electrical upgrades. The total came to $8,400.
Within two billing cycles, my electric bills dropped about 18%. I’m already seeing a return on investment — and I won’t have to worry about R-410A phase-out issues in the future.”
💡 Common Questions Homeowners Ask
1. Is R-32 more expensive to install?
Only slightly. The equipment and handling cost about 3–5% more than R-410A but are offset by better energy efficiency and fewer refrigerant pounds per system.
2. Does installation require special tools?
Yes — R-32 requires compatible gauges, hoses, and recovery cylinders, but all professional HVAC techs certified under EPA Section 608 can handle it safely.
3. What if my old ducts are undersized?
Duct resizing or balancing may add $500–$1,000, but it ensures your system meets SEER2-rated performance.
4. Can I install it myself?
No. DIY installs void Goodman’s warranty and may violate local building codes due to R-32 refrigerant handling rules.
✅ Quick Recap
| Category | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $4,000–$5,200 | Condenser + Air Handler |
| Installation | $3,000–$4,500 | Labor, materials, wiring |
| Total Installed | $7,000–$9,700 | Includes full setup |
| Energy Savings | $150–$250/year | SEER2 upgrade benefit |
| Rebates & Credits | Up to $2,000 | Federal + Utility |
| Warranty | 10 Years | Registration required |
🌡️ Samantha’s Takeaway
“Buying a 5-ton R-32 system isn’t just about cooling power — it’s about value. When you factor in energy savings, tax credits, and long-term reliability, you realize it’s not just a purchase, it’s an investment in comfort, sustainability, and lower utility bills.”
In the next topic we will know more about: Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Goodman 5-Ton R-32 System Running Efficiently
