How Much Does a Goodman 96% AFUE Furnace Cost in 2025? Real Budgeting Tips

When it’s time to upgrade your furnace, few questions matter more than this: “How much is this really going to cost me?”

HVAC pricing can feel like a mystery — quotes that vary wildly, unclear installation add-ons, and confusing rebates. But Savvy’s here to demystify the process with clear, real-world numbers.

In this guide, we’ll break down the true cost of owning a Goodman 96% AFUE furnace in 2025, from upfront equipment pricing to installation, operating expenses, rebates, and long-term value.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect — and how to save hundreds (even thousands) in the process.

👉 Shop the Goodman 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Two-Stage Variable-Speed Furnace — Real Efficiency for Real Homes.

---

💡 Why Cost Transparency Matters

Let’s face it: HVAC pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all.

The quote you get from a contractor depends on:

• Your home’s size and layout

• Regional labor rates

• Ductwork condition

• Efficiency upgrades (like smart thermostats or air purification systems)

According to Energy.gov, heating accounts for 29% of the average U.S. home’s energy use — so understanding your furnace investment is key to controlling long-term costs.

The beauty of Goodman’s 96% AFUE two-stage furnace is that it hits the perfect balance between upfront affordability and lifetime efficiency. You’re not just buying a furnace; you’re buying 15–20 years of steady, quiet comfort.

Savvy says: “Don’t just focus on price tags — focus on performance per dollar.”

---

🏠 Furnace Cost Basics — What You’re Really Paying For

When you see a furnace quote, remember — it’s more than just the metal box in your utility closet. You’re paying for:

1. The Furnace Equipment Itself — The Goodman GRVT961005CN, for example, includes a two-stage gas valve and variable-speed blower for optimized comfort.

2. Professional Installation — Labor, calibration, duct adjustments, gas and vent connections.

3. Permits and Inspections — Required in most cities for safety and warranty validation.

4. Accessories or Upgrades — Thermostats, filters, or venting kits.

In 2025, the average total installed price for a 96% AFUE Goodman furnace typically ranges from $3,800 to $6,800, depending on size, location, and system complexity.

Reference: 2025 HVAC Installation Cost Report.

---

⚙️ Equipment Price — Understanding Goodman’s Value

When you buy a Goodman furnace, you’re investing in efficiency built to last.

🧩 What You Get:

• 96% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): Only 4% of energy is lost — meaning 96 cents of every dollar you spend on gas becomes usable heat.

• Two-Stage Operation: The furnace runs at a lower capacity most of the time, saving energy and reducing wear.

• Variable-Speed Blower: Adjusts airflow to match your home’s needs, keeping temperatures steady and noise minimal.

• Lifetime Heat Exchanger Warranty: Protection against one of the costliest potential repairs.

Typical retail price for the Goodman GRVT961005CN unit in 2025: $2,000–$2,800.

Compared to premium brands like Lennox or Trane, Goodman offers similar performance at 20–30% lower cost, without cutting corners on reliability.

---

🔧 Installation Costs — What’s Included

The installation often costs as much (or more) than the furnace itself — but for good reason. Proper setup determines how efficiently your system runs for decades.

Here’s what your installation fee covers:

• Removal of the old furnace

• Duct connection and sealing

• Gas and electrical hookups

• Condensate drain and venting setup

• System calibration and safety testing

Average installation costs in 2025 range between $2,000 and $3,800, depending on:

• Labor rates in your region

• Furnace location (attic, basement, crawlspace)

• Accessibility and duct configuration

Reference: 2025 Furnace Installation Cost Overview.

Savvy Tip: “Cheaper installation isn’t always better. A perfect setup can boost efficiency by 10% or more every year.”

---

🧰 Optional Add-Ons & Upgrades

When budgeting, consider optional accessories that enhance comfort, indoor air quality, or system efficiency.

Adding these can slightly increase upfront costs, but they often pay for themselves within a few years.

Learn more from ENERGY STAR’s Smart Thermostat Savings Report.

---

🌎 Regional Pricing Differences

Where you live can affect pricing more than you might expect.

🧭 Factors That Influence Cost:

• Climate: Colder regions (like the Midwest or Northeast) require larger-capacity furnaces and longer installation times.

• Labor Costs: Urban centers have higher hourly rates for HVAC technicians.

• Building Codes: Permit fees and inspection requirements vary by state.

Here’s a regional breakdown of average total installed costs for a 96% AFUE Goodman furnace in 2025:

Savvy Tip: “If you live in a mild climate, consider a smaller BTU model — you’ll save on both purchase and operation.”

---

💵 Operating Costs & Energy Savings

Here’s where Goodman’s 96% AFUE rating really shines.

If your current furnace is older — say, 80% AFUE — you’re losing 20 cents on every dollar in wasted heat. Upgrading to a 96% model means:

• Up to $200–$400 per year in gas savings

• Better comfort through longer, quieter heating cycles

• Lower greenhouse gas emissions

Over 15 years, that’s up to $6,000 saved in operating costs.

According to Energy.gov, high-efficiency furnaces are one of the fastest payback HVAC upgrades available — often returning the investment in 6–8 years through energy savings alone.

Savvy says: “Efficiency isn’t just about saving money — it’s about steady warmth, cleaner air, and less noise.”

---

♻️ Rebates, Tax Credits & Incentives

The U.S. government and local utilities want homeowners to switch to high-efficiency systems — and they’ll help you pay for it.

Here’s what’s available in 2025:

• Federal Tax Credit: Up to $600 for ENERGY STAR-certified gas furnaces (under the Inflation Reduction Act).

• Utility Rebates: Many local gas companies offer $250–$800 rebates for 95%+ AFUE installations.

• State or Local Incentives: Visit DSIREUSA.org for rebates in your ZIP code.

Combined, these incentives can shave $800–$1,200 off your total investment.

To find the latest offers, use the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder.

Savvy Tip: “Always apply for rebates before installation — some require pre-approval.”

---

📊 Cost Comparison — Goodman vs. Competitors

Wondering how Goodman stacks up against other leading furnace brands? Here’s the breakdown:

Goodman’s competitive pricing and solid warranty make it one of the most cost-effective choices in its efficiency class.

---

🧮 Savvy’s Real-World Budgeting Tips

Here’s how Savvy helps homeowners plan smarter — and spend less:

1. Get 2–3 Written Quotes

Always compare multiple estimates. Ask contractors to itemize:

• Equipment

• Labor

• Permits

• Accessories

Transparency helps spot inflated bids.

2. Schedule Off-Season Installation

Spring and early fall are “shoulder seasons” — demand dips, and installers often offer discounts or rebates.

3. Bundle with Cooling Equipment

If your AC is older than 10 years, consider upgrading both. Combo packages can save $500–$1,000.

4. Use Utility Financing or HVAC Loans

Goodman dealers often provide low-interest or even 0% APR short-term financing, spreading out payments while keeping warranty coverage intact.

5. Track Energy Savings

After installation, compare monthly bills to previous years — the results will surprise you.

Savvy says: “A smart upgrade pays you back in comfort and savings — month after month.”

---

🏡 Example Budget for a 2,000 sq. ft. Home

To make budgeting easy, here’s a realistic 2025 cost breakdown for a mid-sized home:

That’s less than $350 per year for the first 12 years — and much of it recouped in fuel savings.

---

🧾 The Goodman Advantage — Long-Term ROI

When you invest in Goodman, you’re not just saving money today — you’re ensuring performance and peace of mind tomorrow.

🔧 Goodman’s Advantages:

• Lifetime Heat Exchanger Warranty — coverage for the most critical component.

• 10-Year Parts Warranty — protection for electronics, motors, and valves.

• Two-Stage Heating — comfort-driven efficiency that adapts to the weather.

• Variable-Speed Blower — reduced noise and better air quality.

When properly maintained, Goodman furnaces last 15–20 years and cost up to 20% less to operate than older models.

---

🧠 Long-Term Savings Outlook

Let’s look at what that efficiency really means over time.

And that’s not counting fewer repairs, quieter operation, or consistent comfort levels.

---

🏁 Savvy’s Final Verdict — Smart Heat, Smart Spending

A Goodman 96% AFUE furnace isn’t just another home upgrade — it’s a long-term investment that blends performance, affordability, and efficiency.

Here’s the bottom line:
✅ Total Installed Cost (2025): $3,800–$6,800
✅ Average After Rebates: $4,000–$5,000
✅ Annual Savings: $200–$400
✅ Expected Lifespan: 15–20 years

Savvy says: “Smart heating is about more than just staying warm — it’s about buying comfort that pays for itself.”

Whether you’re replacing an aging 80% unit or planning a new build, Goodman’s 96% AFUE furnace offers one of the best efficiency-to-cost ratios on the market — without premium brand markups.