Hey there — it’s Mark again.
So you pulled the trigger on the Goodman GR9S960803BN — solid choice, my friend. This 96% AFUE, 80,000 BTU gas furnace is one of the most energy-smart upgrades you can make to your home. But now comes the part no one loves talking about…
Installation.
I’ve seen it all — DIY jobs gone sideways, “friend-of-a-friend” hookups that weren’t to code, and installs that left the homeowner scratching their head and calling for help six months later.
That’s why today I’m walking you through everything you need to know about getting your Goodman furnace installed the right way — safely, legally, efficiently, and without blowing your budget.
🏁 Step One: Why Professional Installation Is Non-Negotiable
Let’s just say this up front — installing a high-efficiency gas furnace is not a weekend warrior job.
You’re working with combustible gas, high-voltage electrical, ventilation systems, and a unit that — if installed incorrectly — can lead to fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and invalid warranties. It’s serious stuff.
That’s why the U.S. Department of Energy recommends licensed, certified HVAC contractors for all gas furnace installations — especially those as advanced as the GR9S960803BN, which includes ECM motors, condensate drains, and modern circuit boards.
Mark’s Rule of Thumb:
👉 If your furnace connects to gas or 240V wiring, it’s not a DIY project. Period.
📋 What to Expect During a Professional Install
Your furnace install day shouldn’t feel like a mystery. Here’s how it usually plays out:
🧑 1. Pre-Install Inspection & Load Calculations
Before anyone starts unboxing your Goodman, your HVAC tech should perform a Manual J load calculation to size the furnace properly. This isn’t about square footage alone — they’ll assess insulation, windows, ceiling height, climate zone, and more.
It’s a vital step. Installing an oversized or undersized furnace is one of the most common (and expensive) mistakes in the industry. According to HVAC.com, poor sizing can lead to short cycling, poor humidity control, and premature breakdowns.
🔨 2. Removal of the Old Furnace
The tech will disconnect your old system, shut off gas and power, and safely remove the existing unit. Some contractors may charge a disposal fee, so ask ahead.
Pro Tip: Take a few photos before removal — duct configuration, wiring, and piping — just in case you ever need to reference how things were set up.
⚙️ 3. New Furnace Placement & Positioning
The GR9S960803BN is designed for upflow or horizontal applications, so your contractor will position it accordingly. A level mounting base or platform may be needed, especially in basements or crawlspaces.
Fun fact: this Goodman model’s 17.5” cabinet width is great for tight installations. It slides into spaces many larger units can't fit.
🔌 4. Wiring, Gas Hookups & Condensate Drain
Here’s where it gets technical. The installer will:
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Connect 120V power and low-voltage control wiring
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Install shutoff valves and gas piping (black iron or CSST)
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Connect the PVC venting system for combustion air and exhaust
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Install the condensate drain, since this is a condensing furnace
Make sure your tech pulls a permit and does a code-compliant installation. This protects you legally and ensures it passes final inspection — required in many municipalities.
📡 5. Thermostat Connection & System Calibration
Your contractor will hook up your thermostat — often replacing an old analog unit with a modern programmable or smart model. With the ECM motor in this Goodman furnace, smart thermostats like ecobee or Nest can really optimize performance.
Need help choosing a thermostat? ENERGY STAR’s guide breaks down how programmable models save money and improve comfort.
🔥 6. Startup Test, Safety Check & Inspection
This is where it all comes together. Your tech should:
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Run a startup sequence
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Check for gas leaks
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Test airflow, temperature rise, static pressure
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Calibrate gas pressure and flame characteristics
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Confirm condensate drainage and vent integrity
Finally, you’ll get a walkthrough of how your system works, how to change filters, and when to schedule service.
Mark’s Tip: 📄 Ask for a signed startup checklist and keep it in your records — it’s great for warranty claims or resale value later.
📍 Code & Permit Requirements: Don’t Skip ‘Em
This is where too many folks get tripped up. Yes, you need permits for a furnace install. It’s not just red tape — it ensures safety and compliance.
Depending on your city or county, you may need:
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A mechanical permit
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An electrical permit
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A plumbing or gas permit (for gas line adjustments)
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An inspection after completion
Failing to pull the proper permits can void your homeowner’s insurance in the event of a fire or gas leak. Don’t leave yourself exposed.
If you’re unsure, your local building department website will have requirements. The International Code Council (ICC) also outlines model codes used in most states.
🧠 Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Even pros can slip. Here are a few install issues you should watch out for:
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Improper venting: High-efficiency furnaces need PVC venting with correct slope and termination.
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Missing combustion air intake: Especially in tight homes, you need outside air for proper combustion.
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Drainage problems: Condensing furnaces like this one need proper drainage to avoid corrosion.
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No float switch or secondary drain: These protect against condensate overflow.
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Duct size mismatch: Undersized ductwork creates backpressure, hurting blower efficiency.
If your contractor rushes the job or cuts corners, these issues can show up in months — not years.
🛑 What Happens If You DIY It?
Short version: you void the warranty, put your home at risk, and could violate building codes.
According to Goodman’s warranty terms, installation must be done by a licensed HVAC contractor and the unit must be registered within 60 days to activate full coverage.
Beyond that, messing with gas lines or pressure regulators without certification is downright dangerous. Even something as simple as vent slope can cause exhaust gas buildup if installed wrong.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) strongly recommends all gas appliance work be done by certified professionals — and they’re not just being cautious.
🧰 Cost Expectations for Installation
As mentioned here, most Goodman furnace installs range from $3,000 to $6,000, depending on:
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Geographic location (urban vs rural)
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Condition of existing system
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Ductwork repairs or rerouting
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Thermostat upgrades
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Local permit/inspection fees
Ask your contractor for a written estimate that includes line items — that way, you won’t get hit with surprises later.
🧾 Paperwork You Should Receive After Installation
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Warranty registration confirmation
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Startup/commissioning checklist
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Permit receipts
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User manual & model serial number
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Installer contact info for service calls
Mark’s Bonus Tip: Tape the model number and installer contact card to the side of the unit — future-you will thank you.
🧠 Final Tips for a Smooth Installation Day
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Clear the area where the furnace will be installed.
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Secure pets away from the work zone.
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Ask questions — a good installer won’t mind explaining things.
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Document everything — photos, invoices, permits.
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Register your unit online with Goodman within 60 days for full warranty.
You can do that at Goodman’s Registration Portal.
🔥 Final Thoughts from Mark
Installing your Goodman GR9S960803BN isn’t just another home upgrade — it’s the foundation of your comfort for the next 15+ years. Do it right, and you’ll barely think about your furnace again… except maybe when your heating bill is lower than your neighbor’s.
Get the right pro, ask the right questions, and keep your paperwork in order. And if you haven’t grabbed your unit yet, don’t wait — The Furnace Outlet has them ready to ship at a competitive price with all the specs and details you need.
⚙️Stay sharp. Stay efficient. Stay ahead. - Mark⚙️
