If you’ve been researching ways to make your home more efficient, you’ve probably noticed two trends: R-32 refrigerant systems and high-efficiency gas furnaces. What many homeowners don’t realize is how powerful these two technologies can be when used together.
Pairing a Goodman 96% AFUE furnace, like the GR9S960803BN, with an R-32-based air conditioner or heat pump creates a dual-fuel hybrid system that delivers comfort, lower energy costs, and environmental peace of mind — all in one package.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how R-32 technology complements your Goodman furnace, what makes this combination so efficient, and why it’s quickly becoming the future of home HVAC.
🌎 1. Why R-32 Is Changing the HVAC Landscape
For decades, most HVAC systems used the R-410A refrigerant. It worked well for cooling homes — but it had a big downside: high global warming potential (GWP).
🔄 The Transition from R-410A to R-32
Starting in 2025, the U.S. EPA is phasing out R-410A under the AIM Act, which mandates the transition to refrigerants with a lower environmental impact. Enter R-32, a refrigerant with a GWP of 675 — that’s nearly 70% lower than R-410A’s 2088 rating.
✅ Key Benefits of R-32
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Higher efficiency: Better heat transfer and faster cooling
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Lower environmental impact: 68% reduction in GWP
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Simpler maintenance: Single-component refrigerant (easier to recycle)
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Less refrigerant needed: About 30% less volume for the same performance
These characteristics make R-32 not just eco-friendly, but also better performing — an ideal complement to Goodman’s advanced gas furnace lineup.
📖 Reference: EPA — Transition to Low-GWP Refrigerants
⚙️ 2. What Is R-32 and How Does It Work?
R-32 is part of a new generation of refrigerants designed to keep homes cool efficiently and sustainably.
🔬 In Simple Terms
Refrigerants absorb heat from inside your home and release it outdoors (in cooling mode). R-32 does this with less pressure, less energy, and less environmental harm.
Compared to R-410A, R-32:
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Requires less refrigerant per system
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Transfers heat more effectively
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Reduces compressor strain, which extends system life
This improved thermodynamic efficiency is why many leading brands, including Goodman’s parent company, Daikin, have already transitioned to R-32 technology globally.
📖 Reference: Daikin — Understanding R-32 Refrigerant
🔥 3. Goodman’s 96% AFUE Furnace: A Perfect Match
Before we talk about pairing, let’s appreciate the powerhouse itself — the Goodman 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU furnace.
🏠 Key Features of the GR9S960803BN
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96% AFUE rating: Converts 96% of fuel into heat — only 4% is wasted.
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9-speed ECM blower motor: Adjusts airflow smoothly for comfort and efficiency.
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Secondary heat exchanger: Captures additional heat from exhaust gases.
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Sealed combustion chamber: Pulls air from outside for cleaner, safer operation.
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Flexible installation: Works in upflow or horizontal configurations.
💡 Why It Matters
This furnace provides steady, reliable heating in cold weather — the perfect counterpart to R-32 systems that excel in cooling and mild heating. Together, they form a system that delivers year-round comfort with unmatched efficiency.
📖 Reference: Goodman Manufacturing — Product Specifications
🌡️ 4. How R-32 and Goodman Furnaces Work Together
When you combine an R-32 heat pump or air conditioner with a Goodman furnace, you create what’s known as a dual-fuel hybrid system.
🌀 How It Works:
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During warmer months:
The R-32 system handles all your cooling needs. Its superior heat transfer provides faster cooling with lower energy use. -
During mild winter days:
If paired with an R-32 heat pump, it can also heat your home using electricity — ideal for moderate climates. -
During extreme cold:
Your Goodman gas furnace takes over, providing powerful, reliable heat when you need it most.
This seamless handoff between the two systems is managed automatically by your smart thermostat, ensuring maximum comfort and energy savings all year long.
📖 Reference: EnergyStar.gov — Dual-Fuel Heating Systems
⚡ 5. Year-Round Efficiency Gains
Hybrid systems deliver the best of both worlds — electric efficiency in mild weather, gas reliability in cold weather.
| Season | System in Use | Efficiency Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Spring/Fall | R-32 AC or Heat Pump | Efficient, quiet operation |
| Winter | Goodman Gas Furnace | 96% AFUE efficiency, strong heating power |
| Summer | R-32 AC | Lower cooling costs, smaller carbon footprint |
🔋 The Smart Thermostat Advantage
Modern thermostats — like Google Nest or Honeywell T9 — automatically select which system to use based on outdoor temperatures, giving you the most efficient heat source at any time.
📖 Reference: DOE — Energy Efficiency Trends in HVAC
💨 6. Environmental Impact: Cleaner Comfort
Combining R-32 technology with a Goodman 96% furnace significantly reduces your home’s carbon footprint.
🌱 Dual Efficiency Impact:
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R-32 system: 68% less greenhouse gas potential
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Goodman furnace: Up to 20% less fuel use compared to an 80% model
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Together: A smarter, greener HVAC ecosystem
With more homeowners prioritizing sustainability and efficiency, this combination is both a climate-conscious and cost-effective choice.
📖 Reference: EnergyStar.gov — 2025 HVAC Tax Credits
🧭 7. Hybrid vs. Traditional HVAC Comparison
| Feature | Hybrid (R-32 + Furnace) | Traditional (R-410A + 80% Furnace) |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | 25–35% higher | Standard efficiency |
| Cooling Technology | R-32 (Low GWP, high SEER2) | R-410A (High GWP) |
| Heating Efficiency | 96% AFUE | 80–90% AFUE |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly | Higher emissions |
| Comfort Consistency | Seamless year-round | Seasonal-only |
| Future-Ready | ✅ Yes | ❌ Outdated by 2026 |
Verdict: A hybrid R-32 + Goodman furnace setup gives you the performance of two systems optimized for different climates, all managed intelligently to save energy.
💸 8. Cost and Savings Breakdown
| Component | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Goodman 96% Furnace | $1,800–$2,400 |
| R-32 Heat Pump or AC | $2,800–$4,500 |
| Dual-Fuel Integration & Labor | $1,200–$2,000 |
| Total System Investment | $5,800–$8,900 |
💰 Savings Snapshot:
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Energy Savings: Up to $350–$600/year
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Lifetime Savings (15 years): ~$6,000–$9,000
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Rebates & Credits: Up to $600 federal + $200–$500 utility rebates
You’re investing in long-term comfort with quick payback — typically within 5–7 years.
📖 Reference: DSIRE — Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
🔧 9. Upgrading Your Existing Furnace for R-32 Compatibility
If you already have a Goodman 90%+ AFUE furnace, you may not need a full system replacement. Many existing Goodman models are compatible with R-32 outdoor units, especially when paired with an updated indoor coil.
🛠️ Upgrade Steps:
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Replace your outdoor AC or heat pump with an R-32 model.
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Add a matched coil rated for R-32 refrigerant.
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Ensure your furnace blower motor (ECM) supports the airflow requirements.
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Update your thermostat for dual-fuel control.
This hybrid conversion allows you to transition into the R-32 era without overhauling your entire system.
📖 Reference: HVAC.com — Replacing AC Units Without Changing Furnace
🌍 10. Why This Combo Future-Proofs Your Home
The R-32 + Goodman combination isn’t just about efficiency today — it’s about staying ready for tomorrow’s standards.
🔮 Future-Ready Advantages:
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Meets EPA 2025 refrigerant standards
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Qualifies for ENERGY STAR® Home Upgrade incentives
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Compatible with smart HVAC systems and zoning
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Boosts resale value with sustainable appeal
As energy codes tighten and buyers demand greener homes, a dual R-32 + Goodman setup ensures your investment stays ahead of the curve.
📖 Reference: EPA — A2L Refrigerant Safety Overview
💬 11. Samantha’s Take: Why It’s Worth It
“As a homeowner who values comfort and savings, pairing my Goodman 96% furnace with an R-32 heat pump was a no-brainer.
My home stays cozy in winter, cool in summer, and I know I’m saving energy while cutting emissions. It’s comfort I can feel — and sustainability I can be proud of.”
Whether you’re upgrading from an older 80% furnace or replacing an R-410A AC, this combination represents the next era of smart home climate control.
🧩 Key Takeaways
✅ R-32 = Lower GWP, Higher Efficiency: 68% reduction in global warming potential.
✅ Goodman = Proven Reliability: 96% AFUE furnace with lifetime heat exchanger warranty.
✅ Together = Hybrid Efficiency: Smart automatic switching between gas and electric heating.
✅ Cost-Effective: Lower energy bills and strong tax incentives.
✅ Future-Proof: Meets upcoming EPA and DOE energy standards.
🎨 Visual Companion Infographic
Title: “How R-32 and Goodman Work Together for Year-Round Comfort”
Design Overview:
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Split-screen visual:
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Left (Blue): Winter mode — Goodman furnace heating.
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Right (Orange): Summer mode — R-32 AC cooling.
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Center: Samantha pointing to a symbol combining a flame and snowflake, captioned “The Smart Hybrid Advantage.”
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Footer: “Efficiency: 96% AFUE | R-32 GWP: 675 | Energy Savings: Up to 25%”
In the next topic we will know more about: How Much Does a 96% AFUE Furnace Cost? Equipment, Labor & Rebates
