🧰 Installation 101: What Mike Learned Setting Up His 2-Ton R-32 Goodman System
🏠 Introduction: Why Installation Is the Heart of Performance
When I unboxed my Goodman 2-Ton 13.4 SEER2 R-32 Air Conditioner (GLXS3B2410), I thought the hardest part was over. I was wrong.
What I learned during installation completely changed how I think about air-conditioning systems.
The installation process determines how efficiently, quietly, and reliably your AC runs for the next 15–20 years. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, improper installation can cut performance by up to 30 per cent — even if you’ve bought a high-SEER system.
That’s why I documented everything I learned, step by step. Whether you’re a DIYer or simply want to understand what your HVAC tech is doing, this guide will walk you through the real-world process of setting up a Goodman R-32 condensing unit safely and smartly.
🧭 1. Planning Before You Unbox
🔹 A. Choosing the Right Size
“Two tons” doesn’t mean two tons of weight — it means cooling capacity: 24,000 BTUs/hour.
Before you order, confirm your home’s Manual J load calculation, which estimates heat gain based on insulation, windows, and climate. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) explains why oversizing leads to short-cycling and humidity problems.
In my case, a 2-Ton system was perfect for my 1,200-sq-ft ranch-style home in Ohio.
🔹 B. Picking the Best Location
R-32 condensers need space and airflow. Goodman recommends:
-
At least 12 in of clearance on each side
-
24 in behind service panels
-
60 in of vertical clearance
I poured a 4-inch concrete pad behind my garage, slightly sloped for drainage. The goal: easy access and no recirculating hot air.
For specs, see Goodman’s GLXS3B2410 datasheet.
🔹 C. Power Requirements and Permits
The unit runs on a dedicated 240 V circuit. Check the nameplate for:
-
Minimum Circuit Ampacity (MCA) ≈ 10.9 A
-
Maximum Fuse Size or Breaker ≈ 15 A
I pulled a permit through my local building office; many municipalities now require one for any A2L refrigerant installation. Learn what’s needed in your area via the International Code Council (ICC).
⚡ 2. Electrical Setup and Safety
⚙️ A. Panel and Disconnect
Install a fused disconnect box within line of sight of the condenser (usually 3–6 ft away).
This isn’t optional — it’s part of the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements. It protects both you and the unit during maintenance.
⚙️ B. Wiring and Conduit
I used 12-gauge copper THHN in ½-inch liquid-tight conduit. Keep runs short and tight.
Bond the ground wire to the unit’s chassis using the factory ground lug.
Every connection should be torqued to spec — the installation manual gives torque values for lugs.
⚙️ C. Control Wiring and Thermostat Interface
An 18/5 low-voltage cable connects the condenser to the indoor air handler (Y, C, and signal wires).
Double-check polarity; reversed wiring can blow the 3-amp fuse on the control board.
🧱 3. Removing the Old System and Preparing the Site
🔧 A. Refrigerant Recovery
It’s illegal to vent refrigerant. Have an EPA 608-certified tech recover it.
See the EPA Section 608 rules for why fines are steep for violations.
🔧 B. Disconnect and Demolition
Cut power, label every wire, then disconnect line sets and control lines.
Cap open copper ends to prevent moisture ingress.
🔧 C. Pad Preparation
Your new R-32 unit needs a flat, stable pad (ideally concrete or polycomposite).
Level it, use vibration isolators, and add drainage gravel if your soil retains water.
🛠️ 4. Mounting the New Goodman R-32 Condenser
🔩 A. Set and Secure
I placed the unit centred on the pad, levelled in both directions, and used four anti-vibration pads.
Check with a torpedo level — even ¼ inch off can strain compressor mounts over time.
🔩 B. Connect Refrigerant Lines
Use refrigerant-grade copper tubing. For R-32, flare fittings are acceptable only if torqued exactly; otherwise, braze with nitrogen purge.
Goodman pre-charges each condenser for 15 ft of ⅜-in liquid line. Add or subtract charge based on actual length (see the manufacturer’s charge adjustment table).
Insulate the suction line fully — moisture can cause corrosion and energy loss.
Slope it slightly toward the condenser to ensure oil return.
🔩 C. Electrical Hook-Up
Follow the wiring diagram under the service panel cover.
Colour code everything: black/red = line voltage, yellow = compressor control, blue = common.
Use compression connectors and strain reliefs to protect cables.
💨 5. Leak Testing, Vacuuming and Charging
🧯 A. Pressure Testing
Pressurise lines with dry nitrogen (~150 psi) and check all joints with a soap bubble solution.
If bubbles form, repair and retest. Hold pressure for 30 minutes to confirm stability.
🧯 B. Evacuation
Connect a two-stage vacuum pump and micron gauge. Pull down to 500 microns or lower.
Let it stand 30 minutes — if the reading rises above 800, you still have moisture or leaks.
🧯 C. Charging the System
Because R-32 is a single-component refrigerant, you must charge it as a liquid, not a vapour.
Use a digital scale and charge slowly through the liquid line while monitoring pressures.
Target superheat and subcooling values from the installation manual (typically 10–12 °F superheat, 8–10 °F subcooling at 95 °F ambient).
🔎 6. System Start-Up and Testing
🚀 A. Initial Power-Up
Restore power and wait five minutes for the compressor crankcase heater (if equipped) to warm.
Set the thermostat to cool and observe: the fan should spin smoothly, compressor should start quietly.
🚀 B. Performance Checks
Measure the temperature difference (ΔT) between return and supply air — it should be 14–20 °F.
Record suction/head pressures and amp draw; compare to spec. Keep a logbook for future maintenance.
🚀 C. Fine-Tuning Airflow
If your air handler has multi-speed settings, verify CFM matches the condenser capacity.
Refer to Goodman’s airflow chart in its installation manual.
🧯 7. Safety, Codes and Warranty Essentials
🧰 A. Handling R-32 (A2L) Safely
R-32 has a low Global Warming Potential (GWP 675) but is mildly flammable.
Follow these practices outlined in The Furnace Outlet’s R-32 Installer Guide:
-
Work in well-ventilated areas
-
Avoid sparks or open flames.
-
Use spark-free tools when opening the system.
-
Never charge or store cylinders upside-down indoors
🧰 B. Permits and Inspections
Some jurisdictions require inspection of A2L systems to verify clearances and labelling.
Schedule this right after startup — inspectors check disconnect location, pad stability, line routing, and electrical bonding.
🧰 C. Warranty Registration
Goodman offers a 10-year limited parts warranty if you register within 60 days.
Register here: Goodman Warranty Portal.
Keep your installation invoice and installer’s EPA cert on file; it may be requested for claims.
🧩 8. Troubleshooting Early Issues
Even with a perfect install, minor issues can pop up after first use. Here’s my real-world table of fixes:
| Issue | Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weak cooling | ΔT < 10 °F | Low charge or dirty coil | Check subcooling, clean coil |
| Compressor short-cycles | Turns on/off rapidly | Oversized system or bad thermostat placement | Move the thermostat away from the supply air |
| Loud buzz | Loose contactor or vibration | Tighten mount screws or replace the contactor | |
| Tripped breaker | High amp draw on startup | Undersized breaker or bad capacitor | Verify spec, replace capacitor |
| Frost on lines | Evaporator freezing | Airflow restriction or low refrigerant | Clean filter, adjust charge |
When in doubt, refer to Goodman’s troubleshooting chart.
🧼 9. Maintenance for Long-Term Performance
I learned that maintenance isn’t a “someday” task — it’s a schedule. Here’s my routine:
| Interval | Task |
|---|---|
| Monthly | Replace/clean air filters |
| Quarterly | Rinse condenser coils, inspect the drain line |
| Bi-annually | Check refrigerant pressures, amp draws |
| Annually | Professional tune-up and leak check |
| As needed | Clear debris around the unit, trim plants |
I follow the ENERGY STAR maintenance guide — keeping records helps maintain warranty eligibility.
💡 10. Mike’s Pro Tips and Lessons Learned
-
Nitrogen purge while brazing is non-negotiable — it prevents oxidation inside lines.
-
Don’t skip the micron gauge. “Vacuum until the needle drops” is not accurate.
-
Always label every wire. Future-you will thank past-you.
-
Install a surge protector on the AC circuit; one storm taught me that lesson.
-
Use UV-resistant insulation for exposed suction lines.
-
Log startup readings. If something changes next summer, you’ll spot it instantly.
-
Keep clear airflow paths. Bushes and fences are silent efficiency killers.
📊 11. Environmental and Efficiency Perspective
One reason I chose R-32 was its environmental edge.
With a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 675 vs R-410A’s 2088, it reduces emissions by ≈ 68 %.
According to the U.S. EPA GreenChill Program, switching to low-GWP refrigerants helps phase down HFCs under the AIM Act.
The R-32’s superior heat-transfer properties also mean higher efficiency at lower refrigerant volumes — Goodman’s 13.4 SEER2 translates to notable utility bill savings in moderate climates.
🧾 12. Complete Installation Checklist
| ✅ | Step | Verified |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manual J calculation confirmed | ☐ |
| 2 | Permits pulled & codes checked | ☐ |
| 3 | Electrical circuit and disconnect installed | ☐ |
| 4 | Pad levelled & vibration isolators set | ☐ |
| 5 | Line sets connected & insulated. | ☐ |
| 6 | Leak test passed 150 psi nitrogen. | ☐ |
| 7 | Evacuation to ≤ 500 microns | ☐ |
| 8 | R-32 charge added per spec | ☐ |
| 9 | Start-up readings logged | ☐ |
In next blog we will learn about : Comfort in Every Room: Airflow, Ductwork & Thermostat Setup for 2-Ton Systems
