Introduction
Hey there — Tony Marino here. If you’re like a lot of folks, your HVAC system is something you don’t think about… until you must. Then the bills go up, the comfort drops, and you start asking questions. One of the most helpful metrics in choosing an HVAC upgrade is cost per square foot (or “cost per sf”). It gives a rough yard‑stick that helps you benchmark whether you’re getting a fair deal, and whether the system really fits your home.
In this post I’m going to dig deep into the bundle offered on The Furnace Outlet — the Goodman 3‑Ton 14.5 SEER2 R‑32 system (condenser + air‑handler) — and show you how to evaluate the hvac cost per square foot, what to watch out for, and how to get smart about investment vs payoff. No fluff. Let’s get into it.
What is the “Goodman 3‑Ton 14.5 SEER2 R‑32 Bundle”?
First, a quick overview so we’re on the same page. The bundle is from Goodman, a well‑known brand in residential HVAC. The size is 3‑ton (which means roughly 36,000 BTU/hr cooling capacity), the SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, second generation testing) is 14.5, and the refrigerant is R‑32 (a newer, lower‑GWP refrigerant compared with older types). The package typically includes the outdoor condenser and the matched indoor air‑handler.
When you buy that from The Furnace Outlet (the pillar product page you’re working with), you’re getting a bundled equipment solution. But as I always tell homeowners: the installed cost is what really matters.
Why “cost per square foot (cost per sf)” is such a useful metric
Here’s why I like using cost per square foot as a benchmark:
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It helps level‑set expectations. Instead of just “$10,000 for an HVAC system”, you can say “that’s about $X per square foot for my 2,000 sf house”.
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It gives you a tool to compare across homes and quotes. If one installer quotes you $25,000 and your home is 3,000 sf, you can roughly compute cost per sf and see how it fits industry norms.
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It helps you budget, phase decisions, and understand what drives the cost.
However—and I’ll be honest—cost per sf is only a starting point. It depends greatly on variables: efficiency, ductwork condition, climate zone, home layout, labour rates, etc.
Industry guides show a wide range:
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One source notes installed costs typically translate to about $3 to $7 per square foot for many residential systems. (Super Brothers Plumbing Heating & Air+2Comfort Temp Heating & Air)
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Another guide shows that for a typical 2,000‑2,500 sf home you might expect around $11,590 to $14,100 for full replacement, which works out to ~$4.60 to ~$7 per sf. (Comfort Temp Heating & Air)
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In cases where major ductwork or high efficiency upgrades are required, the cost per sf may be higher. (This Old House)
So when you see a quote, you should ask: “What is the implied cost per sf based on my home?” And then you ask: “Am I getting acceptable value for the size, efficiency, and condition of my home?”
Estimating HVAC Cost per Square Foot for Your Home
Let’s walk through how you’d estimate cost per sf, and then compare that to what you might expect for a bundle like the Goodman.
Step 1: Determine your home’s square footage
First you need to know the conditioned square footage that the HVAC system will serve. For most homes this is the main living area (not necessarily basement or detached garage unless included). Let’s say, for example, your home is 2,000 square feet.
Step 2: Consider the system type & complexity
Are you replacing an existing ducted central AC and gas furnace? Or installing for the first time? Do you need new ductwork? Are there multiple levels / high ceilings / poor insulation? These factors will push cost per sf upward.
Step 3: Use cost per sf benchmarks
For a standard replacement in a reasonably well‑insulated home with existing ductwork, cost per sf in the $3‑$7 range is often cited. (See above.)
If you have more complicated installs (new ductwork, multi‑zone, high efficiency) you might see higher.
Step 4: Apply to your home size
If you have a $4 per sf benchmark on a 2,000 sf home → $8,000 system (just a rough ball‑park).
If you have lots of complexities or choose higher efficiency → maybe $6‑$7 per sf or more → $12,000‑$14,000.
Step 5: Compare quote cost / equipment cost
If your quote for the Goodman 3‑Ton bundle + install comes back at say, $10,000 for your 2,000 sf home → that’s $5 per sf (10,000 ÷ 2,000). That’s right in that rough mid‑range.
If you get $15,000 → $7.50 per sf, that’s on the higher side (but might be justified by complexity, location, insulation, etc).
For more information on sizing HVAC systems, visit the Department of Energy.
How the Goodman 3‑Ton 14.5 SEER2 R‑32 Bundle Fits into That Framework
Now let’s bring that benchmark idea into the Goodman bundle. If you’re considering that bundle for your home, here’s how I evaluate it.
Equipment value
The Goodman bundle offers a mainstream efficiency (14.5 SEER2) with modern refrigerant (R‑32). That’s good. It doesn’t hit the ultra‑premium tier (like SEER 20+), but it’s solid value, particularly for homes where ultra‑high efficiency may not yield a big return. In other words: balanced.
Efficiency, refrigerant & future proofing
Using R‑32 is a strong move. The industry is moving toward lower‑GWP refrigerants. Using R‑32 helps keep you more future‑proof. The SEER2 rating is required under newer Federal test procedures, so your system is ready for current standards (not using an outdated SEER rating). All that means you get a “modern” system, which typically holds more value and performance than an older used‑equipment install.
Right sizing for the home
A 3‑ton unit is often appropriate for a home in the 1,800‑2,500 sf range (depending on climate, insulation, layout). If your home is say 2,200 sf and reasonably tight, 3‑ton may be right. If your home is much larger, you may need more capacity (and cost per sf will go up). If much smaller, you may “oversize” which could reduce efficiency and cost more upfront.
Installed cost and implied cost per square foot
Suppose this bundle equipment + install for a mid‑size home comes in at $10,000. On a 2,000 sf home that’s $5 per sf ($10,000 ÷ 2,000 sf). That’s competitive based on benchmark ranges (which often say $3‑$7 per sf). So you’re in a reasonable territory.
If the quote is $14,000 for the 2,000 sf home, that’s $7 per sf, which is higher — but not necessarily bad depending on the job complexity, location, labour, add‑ons, ductwork, zoning, etc.
What to watch out for
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Ductwork condition: If ducts are leaky, undersized, or need replacing, that can add thousands and move up cost per sf.
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Unique layouts / multiple zones: If your home is split‑level, has many zones, high ceilings or extra insulation needs, costs will rise.
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Labour & permit costs vary regionally: Labour in Ohio may differ from California, etc.
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Installation timing & seasons: Off‑peak installations may get better pricing.
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Add‑ons and controls: Smart thermostats, zoning, air‑filtration upgrades add to cost and thus increase cost per sf.
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Energy efficiency expectations: If you want SEER20+ or ultra premium features, expect cost per sf at the higher end or above the benchmark.
Case Example: Let’s Make It Real
Let’s walk through a scenario:
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Home size: 2,100 square feet
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Climate: Midwest (Ohio)
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Existing system: 15+ years old, ductwork in average condition
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Desired upgrade: Goodman 3‑Ton 14.5 SEER2 R‑32 bundle via The Furnace Outlet
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Contractor delivers a quote: $11,500 installed (equipment + labour + permits + basic start‐up).
Step 1: compute cost per sf
$11,500 ÷ 2,100 sf ≈ $5.48 per sf.
Step 2: benchmark
Based on industry guides ($3‑$7 per sf typical for residential replacement) the quote sits in the mid‑range. Good. (See referenced benchmarks above.)
If the home had very complex ductwork or extra add‑ons, maybe we’d expect higher.
Step 3: evaluate value
Equipment is modern (R‑32, SEER2). 3‑ton seems properly sized (assuming Manual J load calc). The quote falls in a reasonable cost‑per‑sf range. That suggests you’re getting good value.
Step 4: ask strategic questions
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Did the contractor perform or use a Manual J load calculation (to verify sizing)?
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What condition is the present ductwork? Any required modifications?
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Are there add‑ons like zoning, smart thermostat, air quality upgrades? That could raise cost and still be worth it.
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Are there rebates or tax credits available for the equipment or refrigerant (R‑32)?
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What warranty/service terms are included?
Given answers, you can feel comfortable or you can dig deeper if something looks off (e.g., quote jumps to $16,000 – then it becomes ~$7.60 per sf or more for our example home, which is high and should be justified).
Thinking Long‑Term: What Does “Cost per sq ft” Mean for Your Utility Bills & Comfort?
It’s not just the upfront cost per sf. As Tony Marino I want you to think about what you get for that investment over the life of the system.
Efficiency = less wasted energy
With a modern bundle like the Goodman 14.5 SEER2 model, the efficiency improves compared to older lower‑SEER or older refrigerants. That means your utility bills should be lower, you’ll get better comfort (less cycle‑shortening, better latent heat removal), and your system may last longer with fewer repairs.
Proper sizing + ductwork = optimized cost per sf
If you oversize or undersize, you’ll pay more up front (more tons than needed) and you’ll likely pay more in operating costs or face comfort issues. So making sure your home’s load is calculated (Manual J) and your ducts are in order is critical. Paying a good cost per sf upfront ensures the system is right and avoids future waste. Many DIY‑ers or quote shoppers forget this step and later regret it.
Future maintenance and lifespan
A proper install means less risk of early failure. If you get a quote that’s low but looks “too good to be true,” sometimes corners are cut (ductwork not sealed, improper refrigerant charge, undersized mechanicals). That leads to repairs and higher cost long term. So cost per sf is just one metric—quality and installation matter.
Return on investment (ROI)
You’ll want to think: okay, I pay $5.50 per sf now (or whatever your quote comes in). Over 10‑15 years, how much am I saving on utility bills, how much comfort am I gaining, how much is the equipment worth when I sell the home? Those are harder numbers to pin down, but they matter. A good cost per sf upfront investment often pays off by avoiding comfort issues, lower bills, and longer life.
Why I Recommend the Goodman Bundle (with caveats)
As your trusted technician voice, here’s why I lean toward the Goodman 3‑Ton 14.5 SEER2 R‑32 bundle — and what caveats you should keep in mind.
“Why I Recommend”
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Balanced Efficiency – It hits modern standards without going into ultra‑premium cost territory. That means you get modern tech without a massive premium.
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Modern Refrigerant (R‑32) – Using a lower‑GWP refrigerant means you’re more future‑facing. If you’re looking for longevity or resale value this matters.
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Reputable Brand – Goodman has a solid reputation in the residential space; parts availability is good and many contractors are familiar with it.
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Cost per sf Friendly – Because it is mid‑tier efficiency, you’re less likely to blow your budget into the $8‑$10 per sf range. Depending on your home, you can land in a good value zone.
“What to Check / What to Watch”
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Make sure the sizing is right – use a Manual J load calculation (good contractors will insist on this).
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Inspect the ductwork. If it’s old, leaky, undersized, you may need budget for duct repair or replacement; that will raise your cost per sf.
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Ask about labour, permits, start‑up costs. Some quotes sneak in higher labour or hidden fees, raising your cost per sf.
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Check the warranty – equipment warranty plus labour warranty (installation workmanship) matter.
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Ask for incentives. Some regions/utilities offer rebates for R‑32 systems or higher efficiency equipment, which can bring your effective cost per sf down.
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Timing matters. Off‑season may get you better labour rates.
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Consider smart thermostat / air quality add‑ons as optional extras — they may raise the cost per sf but improve value in runtime and comfort.
Addressing Common Questions
Here are a few common homeowner questions about cost per sf and this bundle, and how I address them as Tony Marino.
“My house is bigger/smaller than 2,000 sf—how does that change cost per sf?”
If your home is smaller, say 1,200 sf, your cost per sf number can rise (because many fixed costs remain similar: permits, labour mobilization, etc). So you might see $6‑$8 per sf rather than $4‑$5. If your home is much larger, say 3,000 sf, and you’re using a 3‑ton unit (which may be undersized) or need a 4‑5‑ton, the cost per sf might drop slightly if you spread similar fixed costs over more area—but you’ll likely pay more in absolute dollars. For example, one article showed a 3,000 sf home might range $9,000‑$18,000 for a full system.
“I’ve got bad ductwork—does that change the cost per sf?”
Yes it absolutely does. If you need to repair or replace ducts, seal returns, fix leaks, add insulation, then your “installed cost” jumps. That means your cost per sf goes up. You might see the $3‑$7 per sf benchmark become $8‑$10 or more depending on extent of ductwork work. This is why I always ask, as a technician, to inspect ducts before I commit to a quote.
“How does efficiency (SEER) impact cost per sf?”
Higher efficiency systems (SEER18, SEER20+) cost more equipment‑wise. That pushes your upfront cost per sf higher. But they may reduce operating costs. With this Goodman bundle at 14.5 SEER2, you’re getting modern—but not ultra‑premium efficiency. That means you’re likely to land in the middle of cost per sf instead of the high end. If you went to SEER 20+, expect the per sf cost to rise.
“Is $5 per sf good? Or should I aim lower?”
If your home is average condition, ductwork good, climate moderate, $5 per sf is solid — right in the sweet spot (especially given the benchmarks I quoted). If you can get to $4 per sf with no compromises, fantastic. If you’re being quoted $8‑$10 per sf, ask what extras you’re getting (new ductwork, zoning, premium efficiency) and whether you really need them. Don’t judge purely by lowest cost per sf—judge by value and fit.
Putting It All Together – Your Action Plan
Here’s what I recommend you do next, so you’re making a confident decision.
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Measure your home’s square footage (conditioned space) so you know the denominator for your cost per sf calculation.
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Request 2‑3 quotes, each for the Goodman 3‑Ton 14.5 SEER2 R‑32 bundle (or comparable system), and have the contractor break out equipment cost, labour cost, ductwork cost, permit cost.
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Compute cost per sf for each quote (Total $/quoted ÷ square ft). Compare across the quotes.
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Ask each contractor the same questions:
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Was a Manual J load calculation done?
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What condition is the ductwork in? Does it need repairs?
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What efficiency and refrigerant are being used (confirm R‑32 and SEER2)?
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What warranty comes with equipment and labour?
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Are any rebates or tax incentives factored in?
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What is the timeline and start‐up included?
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Compare the cost per sf result to the industry benchmark. If your home is average and your cost per sf is around $4‑$6, you’re in good territory. If it’s $7‑$10+ per sf, make sure you’re getting something extra (duct replacement, high end zoning, etc).
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Decide based on value, not just lowest cost. If the quote at $11,000 gives you a modern bundle, good ducts, proper install, warranty etc, and that’s $5.20 per sf, that might beat a $9,000 quote that uses inferior ducts or undersized system.
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Plan for run‑time savings and comfort. Once installed, monitor your utility bills, ensure scheduled maintenance, and you’ll maximize the ROI of your investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an HVAC system upgrade doesn’t have to be intimidating. When you anchor your thinking with “cost per square foot” (hvac cost per sf) and pair that with the right questions and the right equipment, you’re in control.
The Goodman 3‑Ton 14.5 SEER2 R‑32 bundle is a very sensible piece of equipment for many homes. And if you pair it with proper sizing, good ductwork, and a professional install, you can land in a comfortable cost per sf zone that gives you value now and comfort for years to come.
As your trusted technician voice here — don’t get swayed only by a “cheap quote.” Get the breakdown, convert it to cost per sf, compare value, and then pick the contractor and system that gives you the best balance. You’ll live with this system for 10‑15 years or more. Make it count.
