Top 5 Gas Furnace AC Combo: Your Essential Buying Guide

Imagine a home that’s perfectly comfortable all year round. In the winter, it’s cozy and warm. In the summer, it’s cool and refreshing. This isn’t a dream; it’s what a gas furnace air conditioner combo can do for you. But figuring out which one to get can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces.

Many homeowners face the same challenge. You want to heat your home efficiently in the cold months and keep it cool when it’s hot, but the world of HVAC systems can be confusing. There are so many brands, features, and prices to consider. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure if you’re making the best choice for your home and your budget. This can lead to wasted money or a system that doesn’t quite do the job.

But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what a gas furnace air conditioner combo is and why it might be the perfect solution for your home. We’ll break down the important things to look for, helping you feel confident in your decision. Let’s dive in and explore how to achieve that year-round comfort.

Our Top 5 Gas Furnace Air Conditioner Combo Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Gas Furnace Air Conditioner Combo Detailed Reviews

1. 3 Ton 16 SEER2 100

3 Ton 16 SEER2 100,000 BTU 96% AFUE Goodman Upflow Air Conditioner System with Models GLXS5BA3610, CAPTA4230C3, GR9T961005CN

Rating: 9.4/10

Upgrade your home comfort with the powerful and efficient 3 Ton 16 SEER2 100,000 BTU 96% AFUE Goodman Upflow Air Conditioner System. This system, featuring models GLXS5BA3610, CAPTA4230C3, and GR9T961005CN, is designed to keep your home perfectly heated and cooled. It’s an excellent direct replacement for older Goodman systems, offering advanced technology and improved performance. This A2L model ensures you get the latest in HVAC innovation.

What We Like:

  • Powerful heating with a 100,000 BTU gas furnace keeps you warm.
  • High 96% AFUE rating saves money on energy bills.
  • 3-Ton capacity is great for medium to large homes.
  • The advanced compressor offers reliable and efficient operation.
  • Uses eco-friendly R-32 refrigerant, which is better for the environment.
  • Optimized airflow and a multi-speed blower ensure even comfort throughout your home.
  • A heavy-duty steel cabinet protects the system from the weather.
  • Comes with a 10-year parts warranty when installed by a professional and registered.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Accessories like line sets and LP kits are sold separately, adding to the initial cost.
  • The system requires installation by a qualified professional and online registration to activate the full warranty.

This Goodman system provides a reliable and energy-efficient solution for your home’s heating and cooling needs. It’s a smart investment for long-term comfort and savings.

2. Goodman 92% AFUE Single Stage Upflow/Horizontal multi-speed 100k BTU Low NOx Natural Gas furnace (21 wide) (GR9S921005CN)

Goodman 92% AFUE Single Stage Upflow/Horizontal multi-speed 100k BTU Low NOx Natural Gas furnace (21 wide) (GR9S921005CN)

Rating: 8.5/10

The Goodman 92% AFUE Single Stage Upflow/Horizontal multi-speed 100k BTU Low NOx Natural Gas furnace (21 wide) (GR9S921005CN) is a solid choice for keeping your home warm and cozy. This furnace uses natural gas and is designed for upflow or horizontal installations, making it flexible for different home setups. Its 100,000 BTU heating power is suitable for many homes, and the 92% AFUE rating means it’s quite efficient at turning gas into heat, saving you money on your energy bills. It also meets Low NOx standards, which is better for the environment.

What We Like:

  • High efficiency (92% AFUE) helps lower energy costs.
  • Multi-speed fan provides quiet and consistent heating.
  • Low NOx emissions are environmentally friendly.
  • Flexible installation options (upflow or horizontal).
  • Comes with a 10-year parts limited warranty when installed by a qualified professional and registered.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Warranty requires professional installation and timely registration.
  • Single-stage heating might not be as precise as two-stage systems in some cases.
  • The 21-inch width might be a consideration for very tight spaces.

This Goodman furnace offers good value and reliable heating. It’s a smart investment for comfort and efficiency in your home.

3. Goodman 3 Ton 14 Seer 80

Goodman 3 Ton 14 Seer 80,000 Btu 81% Afue Gas Package Air Conditioner GPG1436080M41

Rating: 8.9/10

The Goodman 3 Ton 14 Seer 80,000 Btu 81% Afue Gas Package Air Conditioner GPG1436080M41 is a robust unit designed to keep your home comfortable year-round. It efficiently cools your space in the summer and provides heating in the cooler months. This all-in-one system is a smart choice for homeowners looking for reliable climate control.

What We Like:

  • Energy Efficiency: With a 14 SEER rating, this unit helps you save money on your energy bills. It uses less electricity to cool your home.
  • Dual Functionality: It acts as both an air conditioner and a gas furnace. This means you get cooling and heating from one system.
  • Good Capacity: The 3-ton size is suitable for many average-sized homes. It can handle the cooling needs of a typical family.
  • Reliable Brand: Goodman is a well-known name in HVAC. Many people trust their products for durability and performance.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Installation Complexity: As a package unit, installation might require professional help. This can add to the overall cost.
  • Noise Level: Some users report that package units can be a bit noisier than split systems. This might be a consideration for some homeowners.
  • Limited Advanced Features: This model focuses on core functionality. It might not have the smart features found in some newer, high-end systems.

Overall, the Goodman GPG1436080M41 offers solid performance and energy savings. It’s a dependable option for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.

4. ACiQ Inverter Split AC Unit

ACiQ Inverter Split AC Unit, Evaporator Cased Coil, and Natural Gas Furnace with 30

Rating: 8.6/10

Upgrade your home’s comfort with the ACiQ Inverter Split AC Unit and Natural Gas Furnace. This system provides powerful cooling and efficient heating, all while saving you energy. It’s designed to work with your existing ductwork, making it a straightforward central air upgrade. The inverter technology keeps your home at the perfect temperature, and the natural gas furnace offers consistent warmth.

What We Like:

  • The inverter compressor cools efficiently even in extreme temperatures, from 5°F to 122°F.
  • The evaporator coil has a factory-installed TXV for precise cooling.
  • The 9-speed ECM blower in the furnace ensures consistent warmth and saves energy.
  • It includes a comprehensive 30′ installation kit with a WiFi-enabled programmable thermostat.
  • The unit is AHRI Certified and ETL Listed, meaning it meets high standards for performance and safety.
  • Internal parts are built to last, promising long-term reliability.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This furnace is not compliant with California’s Low NOx and Ultra-Low NOx regulations.
  • Warranty conditions need to be carefully checked in the product description for specific details.

This ACiQ system offers a smart and reliable way to improve your home’s heating and cooling. It’s a great choice for year-round comfort and energy savings.

5. ACiQ Inverter Split AC Unit

ACiQ Inverter Split AC Unit, Evaporator Cased Coil, and Natural Gas Furnace with 30

Rating: 8.7/10

Upgrade your home’s comfort with the ACiQ Inverter Split AC Unit, Evaporator Cased Coil, and Natural Gas Furnace. This system combines powerful cooling and efficient heating into one smart package. It works with your existing ductwork, making it a convenient replacement for older systems. The inverter compressor keeps your home at the perfect temperature, even in extreme weather. Plus, the gas furnace provides steady warmth and helps you save on energy bills.

What We Like:

  • Central Air Upgrade: Easily integrates with your current home ductwork for a seamless transition to modern split AC operation.
  • Energy-Saving Cooling: The inverter compressor adjusts its output to save energy and provides consistent comfort from 5°F to 122°F.
  • Efficient Heating: The 9-speed ECM blower and self-diagnostic controls ensure consistent warmth and make maintenance easier.
  • Precise Cooling: A factory-installed TXV in the evaporator coil fine-tunes refrigerant flow for better cooling performance.
  • Complete Installation Kit: Includes everything you need, like a programmable thermostat with WiFi, insulated line set, electrical whip, and more.
  • Certified Quality: AHRI Certified and ETL Listed, this unit meets strict safety and performance standards for reliability.

What Could Be Improved:

  • California Compliance: This furnace does not meet California’s Low NOx and Ultra-Low NOx regulations, which is important to note for residents there.
  • Warranty Details: You need to check the product description section for specific warranty information for each unit.

This ACiQ system offers a comprehensive solution for year-round home comfort, blending advanced technology with practical integration. It’s a solid choice for homeowners looking to boost their HVAC efficiency.

Your Guide to a Cozy Home: Gas Furnace Air Conditioner Combos

Why Choose a Combo Unit?

Imagine your home staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer with just one system. That’s what a gas furnace air conditioner combo does! It’s a smart choice for many homeowners. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

1. Heating and Cooling Power (BTUs)

BTUs, or British Thermal Units, tell you how much heating or cooling power a unit has. You need the right size for your home. Too small, and it won’t keep you comfortable. Too big, and it wastes energy.

  • Heating: Your furnace’s BTU needs depend on your home’s size, insulation, and climate.
  • Cooling: Your air conditioner’s BTU needs also depend on your home’s size, but also on how sunny it is and how many people live there.
2. Energy Efficiency (SEER and AFUE)

Higher numbers mean more savings on your energy bills! Look for these ratings:

  • SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): This is for the air conditioner part. A higher SEER means it cools more efficiently.
  • AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): This is for the furnace part. A higher AFUE means it uses fuel better to heat your home.
3. Variable-Speed Technology

Some units have fans that can change their speed. This is great! It means the system can run at a lower speed most of the time, keeping your home at a steady temperature. It’s quieter and more energy-efficient.

4. Smart Thermostat Compatibility

Many modern combo units work with smart thermostats. These thermostats learn your habits and can be controlled from your phone. This makes managing your home’s temperature super easy.

Important Materials

The parts inside your combo unit matter. Good quality materials help it last longer and work better.

  • Heat Exchanger: This part transfers heat from the burning gas to the air. Stainless steel is a durable choice.
  • Coils: The coils in the air conditioner part should be made of strong materials like copper or aluminum.
  • Cabinet: The outside casing should be sturdy and protect the inner workings from weather.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

What Makes a Unit Great:
  • Good Warranty: A longer warranty shows the manufacturer trusts their product.
  • Quiet Operation: You don’t want a noisy system running in your home.
  • Reliable Brand: Stick with brands known for making good HVAC equipment.
  • Professional Installation: Even the best unit won’t work right if it’s not installed properly.
What Can Make a Unit Less Good:
  • Poor Installation: This is a big one. Bad installation leads to problems.
  • Low-Quality Parts: Cheaper parts might break down sooner.
  • Incorrect Sizing: A unit that’s too big or too small will struggle and cost more to run.

User Experience and Use Cases

People love combo units because they simplify their HVAC needs. One system means less to maintain and one point of contact if something goes wrong.

  • For Families: Keep everyone comfortable year-round without fuss.
  • For Small Homes: A compact solution that saves space.
  • For Energy Savers: High-efficiency models help lower bills.

Think about where you live. If you have cold winters and hot summers, a combo unit is a fantastic all-in-one solution.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Gas Furnace Air Conditioner Combos

Q: What is a gas furnace air conditioner combo?

A: It’s a single system that uses a gas furnace to heat your home in the winter and an air conditioner to cool it in the summer.

Q: How do I know what size unit I need?

A: A professional HVAC technician will measure your home and calculate the right size (BTUs) for both heating and cooling.

Q: Are combo units more expensive than separate units?

A: Not always. While the initial cost might be similar, the convenience and potential for integrated efficiency can make them a good value.

Q: How often should I get my combo unit serviced?

A: It’s recommended to have your system serviced at least once a year, ideally in the spring for the AC and fall for the furnace.

Q: Can I use a smart thermostat with any combo unit?

A: Most newer combo units are designed to be compatible with smart thermostats, but it’s good to check the product specifications.

Q: What does SEER mean?

A: SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently your air conditioner cools your home.

Q: What does AFUE mean?

A: AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It measures how efficiently your gas furnace converts fuel into heat.

Q: How long do gas furnace air conditioner combos usually last?

A: With proper maintenance, these systems can last between 15 to 20 years.

Q: Is a variable-speed blower important?

A: Yes, a variable-speed blower helps maintain a more consistent temperature, reduces noise, and saves energy.

Q: Where is the best place to buy a combo unit?

A: It’s best to buy from a reputable HVAC dealer or contractor who can also provide professional installation and service.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.