When I was researching my own HVAC system, I quickly realized there’s no shortage of options. But three names kept coming up again and again: Goodman, Carrier, and Lennox.
2 Ton Wall Mounted Goodman Air Handler - AWST24SU1305
If you’re shopping for a 2 Ton R-32 compatible air handler, these three brands are at the top of the list. The real question is:
👉 Which one is the best fit for your home?
In this guide, I’ll break it down side-by-side—covering price, performance, features, warranties, and long-term ownership—so you can make an informed decision.
🏷️ Price Comparison
Price is usually the first question homeowners ask (I know it was for me).
Goodman
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Equipment cost (2025): $1,250–$1,800
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Installed cost: $3,500–$6,000
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Known for budget-friendly pricing while still offering good warranties.
Carrier
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Equipment cost (2025): $1,600–$2,200
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Installed cost: $3,800–$6,200
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Mid-range option with higher upfront cost but solid reliability.
Lennox
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Equipment cost (2025): $1,700–$2,400
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Installed cost: $3,900–$6,600
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Premium pricing, often the most expensive of the three.
👉 HomeAdvisor notes that brand choice alone can swing HVAC project costs by $500–$1,500 or more.
⚡ Efficiency & Performance
Goodman
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R-32 compatible wall-mounted design.
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Built-in TXV (Thermal Expansion Valve) for optimized refrigerant control.
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Delivers steady humidity control and maximizes SEER2 ratings.
Carrier
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R-32 transition models available in 2025.
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Efficiency varies by pairing—often strong mid-tier SEER2/EER2 results.
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Known for consistent comfort in humid regions.
Lennox
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Premium models reach the highest SEER2 ratings when paired with Lennox outdoor condensers.
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Ultra-quiet fans and advanced airflow controls.
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Often considered the “efficiency leader” among the big three.
👉 According to Energy Star, systems with TXVs and high SEER2 ratings can save 15–30% annually on cooling costs compared to older units.
🛠️ Design & Features
Goodman
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Wall-mounted design saves space in closets and apartments.
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Comes factory-installed with 5 kW heater (for backup heat).
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Compact 20.2” wide cabinet—ideal for small homes.
Carrier
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Primarily multi-position units (upflow, downflow, horizontal).
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Excellent for flexible duct configurations.
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Smart controls available when paired with Carrier thermostats.
Lennox
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Premium build quality with ultra-quiet blower motors.
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Larger cabinet sizes may require more space.
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Designed for pairing with Lennox “Signature Collection” outdoor units.
📏 Fit & Space Considerations
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Goodman: Best for small-to-mid homes, apartments, or tight closets. Its wall-mounted design is a space-saver.
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Carrier: Best for larger or custom homes where duct layout is complex. Multi-position flexibility helps.
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Lennox: Best for homeowners with utility space to spare who want premium comfort.
🧾 Warranty & Reliability
Goodman
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10-year limited parts warranty when registered.
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Known for straightforward warranty terms.
Carrier
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Typically 10-year parts warranty, but requires installation by a certified Carrier contractor.
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Reputation for durability in high-humidity environments.
Lennox
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Also offers 10-year warranties, but some conditions apply.
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Repair parts are often more expensive and harder to source.
👉 HVAC.com notes that warranty fine print matters—especially whether installation must be done by “authorized dealers.”
💰 Long-Term Ownership Costs
Here’s where things get interesting:
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Goodman: Lowest upfront cost, replacement parts are inexpensive. Great for budget-conscious homeowners.
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Carrier: Moderate ownership costs, but requires brand-certified service for warranty coverage.
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Lennox: Highest ownership costs due to pricey parts and premium service requirements.
⚖️ Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Goodman | Carrier | Lennox |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,250–$1,800 | $1,600–$2,200 | $1,700–$2,400 |
| Installed Cost | $3,500–$6,000 | $3,800–$6,200 | $3,900–$6,600 |
| Efficiency | Strong with TXV + R-32 | Mid-high with R-32 | Highest SEER2 |
| Design | Wall-mounted, compact | Multi-position, flexible | Premium, larger footprint |
| Warranty | 10 years (simple terms) | 10 years (certified install) | 10 years (conditions apply) |
| Best Fit | Small-to-mid homes, apartments | Large/custom homes | Premium buyers, space-rich homes |
👩🏫 Samantha’s Real-World Take
In my case, Goodman was the winner:
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It fit my hall closet perfectly.
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The TXV + R-32 compatibility gave me peace of mind for future regulations.
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And the price was hundreds less than Carrier or Lennox.
But I’ll admit—my neighbor went with Carrier for their larger two-story home, and it made sense. Meanwhile, a friend in California swears by Lennox because she wanted whisper-quiet operation and top-tier efficiency.
✅ Final Recommendation
So, which 2 Ton R-32 air handler is best? It depends on your priorities:
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💵 Go Goodman if you want affordability, compact fit, and reliable efficiency.
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⚡ Go Carrier if you need multi-position flexibility for complex duct setups.
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🌟 Go Lennox if you’re a premium buyer who values ultra-quiet performance and don’t mind higher costs.
👉 My advice: Start with your space and budget. If your home is under ~1,400 sq. ft., Goodman is the best value. If you have a large or custom home, Carrier might fit better. If you want luxury comfort and don’t mind paying for it, Lennox is the premium pick.
In the next topic we will know more about: Is a 2 Ton Wall-Mounted Air Handler Enough for Your Home? Sizing Tips & Climate Guidance
