When you invest in a Goodman 5 Ton R-32 air conditioner with an 80,000 BTU gas furnace, you expect dependable comfort year-round. But even the best systems can run into problems—whether it’s a hot summer day and the AC won’t cool, or a chilly evening when the furnace refuses to kick on.
I’ve been there. One July afternoon, my Goodman system started blowing warm air instead of cool. I panicked at first, but after running through a few quick checks, I discovered it was just a clogged filter. That simple fix saved me the cost of a service call.
This guide will walk you through a step-by-step troubleshooting process so you can figure out whether it’s something simple you can handle—or whether it’s time to call a professional.
🚨 Start with Safety First
Before touching your system, remember:
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Turn off the power to your AC or furnace at the breaker before opening panels.
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Never attempt to handle refrigerant (R-32)—it requires EPA certification (EPA HFC Handling Rules ✔️).
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If you smell gas, turn off the furnace, leave the house, and call your utility company immediately.
👉 Samantha’s tip: “I keep a small laminated card on my breaker panel that labels exactly which breaker is for my Goodman system—it saves me from guessing during emergencies.”
❄️ If the AC Isn’t Cooling
When your Goodman R-32 AC isn’t producing cold air, try these steps:
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Check Thermostat Settings
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Set to “Cool.”
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Fan mode set to “Auto,” not “On” (otherwise, it may just blow room-temp air).
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Inspect or Replace Filters
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Dirty filters restrict airflow and can freeze coils.
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Replace every 1–3 months depending on usage.
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Check the Circuit Breaker
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Reset if tripped.
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Make sure outdoor disconnect switch is in “On” position.
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Clear the Outdoor Condenser
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Remove leaves, grass, or debris within 2 feet of the unit.
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Dirty condenser coils reduce cooling capacity (Energy.gov – AC Maintenance ✔️).
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Look for Ice on Coils
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Ice = airflow issue or low refrigerant.
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If you see ice, turn system off and call a professional.
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🔥 If the Furnace Isn’t Heating
When your Goodman 80,000 BTU furnace isn’t producing heat:
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Thermostat Settings
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Set to “Heat.”
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Increase temperature 3–5 degrees above room temp to force a cycle.
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Replace Furnace Filter
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A clogged filter can cause overheating and shutdown.
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Check Furnace Switch & Breaker
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Ensure power switch (often near furnace) is ON.
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Reset breaker if tripped.
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Check Gas Supply
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Make sure gas valve is open.
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If you suspect a gas leak, stop here and call your utility provider.
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Look for Error Codes
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Goodman furnaces flash LED error codes on the control board.
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Example:
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1 flash = ignition failure
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3 flashes = pressure switch open
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6 flashes = roll-out switch open
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Consult your furnace manual for specifics.
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💧 If There’s Weak Airflow
Weak airflow makes your home uncomfortable and strains your system.
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Clogged Filters: Replace immediately.
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Blocked Vents: Open all supply and return vents. Don’t block with furniture.
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Leaky Ducts: Can waste 20–30% of airflow (EPA – Duct Efficiency ✔️).
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Blower Issues: If the blower motor isn’t spinning properly, call a pro.
👉 Samantha’s tip: “I once found my return vent covered by a bookshelf—moving it instantly fixed my airflow issue!”
🔊 If the System Is Noisy
Different noises point to different problems:
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Rattling: Loose panel or part. Tighten screws.
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Buzzing: Possible electrical issue. Call a pro.
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Hissing: Could be refrigerant leak. Requires licensed technician.
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Banging: Blower imbalance or compressor issue. Professional repair needed.
Goodman systems are designed to run around 72–76 dB outdoors—similar to a vacuum. Anything louder could indicate an issue.
⚠️ Common Goodman Error Codes
Most Goodman systems use flashing LEDs for diagnostics:
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1 Flash: Ignition failure.
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3 Flashes: Pressure switch open.
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6 Flashes: Roll-out switch open (safety hazard—call a pro).
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Continuous Flash: Normal operation.
👉 Always refer to your furnace or AC manual for exact code meanings.
👩🔧 DIY Fixes vs. When to Call a Pro
Not all problems are DIY. Here’s a quick breakdown:
✅ Safe DIY Fixes
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Replacing filters
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Resetting breakers
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Checking thermostat batteries/settings
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Clearing outdoor condenser debris
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Flushing condensate drain (vinegar + water mix)
🚫 Call a Professional For
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Refrigerant issues (R-32 requires EPA certification)
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Compressor problems
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Blower motor replacement
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Electrical wiring faults
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Repeated error codes you can’t clear
According to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), annual professional inspections are critical for safety and warranty compliance
✅ Samantha’s Troubleshooting Checklist
Here’s my step-by-step list I keep taped inside my utility closet:
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Thermostat set correctly ✔️
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Filter checked/replaced ✔️
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Breaker & disconnects ON ✔️
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Outdoor condenser clear of debris ✔️
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Furnace gas valve open ✔️
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Vents unblocked ✔️
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If still not working → Call HVAC pro ✔️
🔑 Final Thoughts
When your Goodman 5 Ton AC + furnace system isn’t heating or cooling properly, don’t panic. Often the solution is as simple as a filter, thermostat, or breaker reset.
But remember: while troubleshooting can save you from unnecessary service calls, some issues—especially with refrigerants, gas, or electrical parts—require a professional.
By keeping this guide (and a little checklist like mine), you’ll know what you can handle yourself, and when to call for expert help. That balance can save you time, money, and stress—while keeping your Goodman system running strong year-round.
In the next topic we will know more about: Is a 5 Ton System Right for Your Home? R-32 Sizing & Floorplan Guidance
