Will a 1.5-Ton R-32 AC and Gas Furnace Fit in Your Utility Space

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🏠 Jake’s First Concern Before Buying

When I was shopping for my 1.5-ton R-32 AC and gas furnace combo, the first question wasn’t about SEER2 ratings, warranties, or rebates.
It was:

Will it even fit in my utility closet?

The last thing I wanted was to sign a contract, have the installers arrive, and then hear:

“Uh… Jake, we’re going to need to rebuild this wall.”

Lesson learned: Before you commit, you’ve got to check dimensions, clearances, and access routes. Fit issues can add hundreds — even thousands — in extra labor and materials.

Best 1.5 Ton AC and Gas Furnaces

📏 Dimensions of a 1.5-Ton R-32 System

Even though “1.5-ton” tells you the cooling capacity, it doesn’t say anything about the physical size of the equipment.

🌳 Outdoor R-32 Condenser Size

Typical R-32 1.5-ton condensers:

Height: 24–32 inches
Width/Depth: 24–30 inches
Weight: 90–130 lbs

Smaller, high-efficiency models may have taller but narrower designs, while budget models may be shorter but wider.

🔥 Gas Furnace Cabinet Size

For small homes (40k–60k BTU input):

Width: 14–17.5 inches (narrow) or 21 inches (standard)
Height: 33–45 inches
Depth: 28–35 inches

High-efficiency two-stage models may be slightly taller due to secondary heat exchangers.

📎 Goodman Furnace Product Specs

❄ Indoor Coil Case

Usually 14–21 inches wide to match furnace
Height: 18–24 inches
Depth: 20–26 inches

Jake’s tip: Don’t just measure the footprint — include height, because the coil sits above the furnace in most vertical installations.

📦 Measuring Your Space

Before you buy, grab:

Tape measure
Notepad (or phone camera)
Level

1. Measure the Existing Equipment

Width, height, and depth of furnace
Coil and plenum height above furnace
Space between furnace and surrounding walls

2. Measure the Room or Closet

Width, depth, and ceiling height
Doorway width and swing direction
Path from outside to install location (hallways, stairs, turns)

3. Check for Obstacles

Gas line placement
Electrical panel clearance rules (NEC: 30” wide, 36” deep clear space)
Water heater proximity
Attic stairs or low ceilings in basements

📎 NEC Electrical Clearance Guidelines

📐 Clearance Requirements

Clearance rules keep the system safe, serviceable, and efficient.

🌬 Airflow Clearance

Manufacturers specify minimum space around units for airflow:

Furnace front: 24 inches for service access
Furnace sides/back: 0–6 inches depending on model
Outdoor condenser: 12–24 inches on sides, 5 feet above

🛡 Safety Clearance for A2L Refrigerant (R-32)

R-32 is a mildly flammable A2L refrigerant — installation guidelines require:

Adequate ventilation in confined spaces
Separation from ignition sources (furnace burners are sealed in modern designs)
Compliance with ASHRAE 15 and 34

📎 ASHRAE A2L Refrigerant Safety Guide

🛠 Utility Space Types & Challenges

🚪 Small Closets

Challenge: Limited front clearance
Fix: Use a multi-position furnace with a shorter cabinet and side return

🏚 Basements

Challenge: Low ceilings
Fix: Choose a shorter “lowboy” furnace design

🌞 Attics

Challenge: Heat and difficult access
Fix: Platform installation, ensure condensate pump/drain slope

🚗 Garages

Challenge: Combustion safety and code
Fix: Elevate furnace 18 inches above floor, protect from vehicle impact

🚧 Common Fit Problems & Fixes

1. Ductwork Mismatch

If your new furnace is narrower than the old one, the duct may need a transition piece to connect smoothly.

2. Utility Obstructions

Gas or water lines may need relocating — factor in plumber costs if space is tight.

3. Delivery Path

A 21-inch furnace won’t fit through a 20-inch attic hatch — consider split coil/furnace deliveries or modifying access.

4. Multi-Position Install

Horizontal furnaces can work in tight attics where vertical won’t fit.

⚡ Venting, Drain, and Power Access

Venting

Mid-efficiency: Metal flue pipe
High-efficiency: PVC vent through wall or roof
Must have proper slope and termination clearances

Drain

Coils and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate — drains need ¼” slope per foot.

Electrical

Dedicated breaker for furnace blower
Outdoor disconnect for condenser within sight

📎 Energy.gov — HVAC Electrical & Venting

📋 Jake’s Pre-Install Checklist

✅ Measure space, doorways, and delivery route
✅ Compare to manufacturer specs of chosen model
✅ Verify code-required clearances
✅ Plan duct transitions if needed
✅ Confirm vent/drain routing
✅ Take photos for installer to review