If you’re reading this, you might be wondering why so many people say they’re unhappy with Goodman air conditioners. Goodman is a budget-friendly brand, but for some homeowners and technicians, that low price can mean trouble later on. Let’s take a closer look at why issues come up, what people are saying, and what you might expect if you’re thinking about buying one.
🧭 What to Expect from Goodman Units
Goodman is owned by Daikin and marketed as a more affordable option. That’s great if you’re shopping on a tight budget, but it also means the design uses cheaper parts and materials. According to experts and consumer reviews, longevity and reliability are often lower compared to premium brands like Trane or Carrier.
This price point tends to lead to more frequent repairs and some complaints about customer service and warranty handling.
Key Problems Reported by Homeowners
1. Evaporator or Condenser Coil Leaks
A big issue is coil leaks—especially in aluminum coils that Goodman has used since around 2016. Many users report needing coil replacements multiple times within just a few years. One person shared:
“Coil leak all the time… Their crap. I bought two package units—same shit.”
Others described recurring leaks that led them to replace the entire system rather than pour money into repairs. These failures often come after just 2–4 years, even when the unit is under warranty.
2. Compressor Failures and Short Lifespan
Multiple reports talk about the compressor failing prematurely—sometimes around the 3‑ to 6‑year mark. For example:
“Frequent breakdowns… unit has only been in use for 5 years… started leaking gas after 2 years… paying $600‑$800 yearly to keep this going.”
And another homeowner shared that after fewer than three years, they’d already replaced the compressor three times:
“I regret this purchase more than anything… everything people say is true: these AC units are garbage.”
Even though Goodman offers a strong parts warranty (up to 10 years), the labor cost isn’t covered. That means you could spend thousands out of pocket for repeated repairs.
3. Installation Quality Varies Widely
Reddit technicians frequently warn that many failures stem from poor installation—not just product design. Goodman sells its units to almost anyone, and that includes inexperienced installers. As one technician put it:
“Goodman is cheap, and any jackass can install it. This creates lots and lots of jacked up installs… Techs associate Goodman with these shitty installs.”
When installed poorly, even a well-designed system can perform badly—or fail early.
4. Loud Operation and Thin Build Quality
Many reviews point out that Goodman units are noisier than expected, even with sound blankets:
“Goodmans are great value and extremely reliable… but they are NOISY, way noisier than rated by dB.”
Additionally, the metal casing is viewed as thin and flimsy. Critics say this lowers durability and increases susceptibility to damage over time.
5. Poor Warranty and Customer Support Experience
Even though Goodman advertises a 10‑year parts warranty, customers consistently report frustrations with the claim process:
- Warranty only covers parts—not labor—so repairs are still costly.
- Goodman often refuses to fully replace units even after repeated failures.
- Communication from customer service is often described as slow or unhelpful.
One Texas homeowner wrote:
“Worst ever… paid 12k… attic system is junk, under warranty and Goodman refuses to honor it… I have to pay for total cost of replacement.”
Technician Insights: Why HVAC Pros Are Skeptical
Some experienced techs hesitate to install Goodman equipment because:
- Frequent coil failures and compressor issues post‑2015 acquisitions by Daikin.
- High rate of control board and pressure switch malfunctions.
- Microchannel aluminum coils prone to corrosion or leaks.
- Installers often pick Goodman because of its low price, resulting in mixed install quality.
One technician complained:
“The only fault with Goodman is it’s easier for any homeowner or handyman to buy one and install their own… leading to a lot of low‑quality installs and ultimately failures.”
Upside: They’re Cheap and Parts Are Easy to Get
Despite the concerns, Goodman still has fans:
- Units are very affordable, making initial installation cheaper.
- Parts are readily available and inexpensive.
- Warranty coverage for parts is generous—though labor isn’t covered.
One installer with a decade of experience said:
“Parts are cheap so when something like the inducer motor starts screeching after 10 years… you can change it easily enough. They also have one of the better heat exchangers in the industry.”
Another homeowner reported a Goodman running for 20 years with just basic repairs—proof that longevity is possible when installation and maintenance are solid.
So, Why Are Some Customers Really Unsatisfied?
- Repeated failures: coils, compressors, or motors failing within a few years.
- Wasted money: frequent labor costs not covered by warranty for part replacements.
- Noise and discomfort: louder than expected, rust-prone parts, flimsy builds.
- Poor support: customer service often unresponsive or slow to honor issues.
- Quality control: widespread complaints about poor unit condition upon delivery.
Should You Go with Goodman? What to Consider
If you’re thinking about Goodman, ask yourself:
- How long do you plan to stay in your home? If less than 5–7 years, it might be cost-effective.
- Can you find a reliable, experienced HVAC installer? Proper installation is vital.
- Are you okay covering labor costs if parts fail? Even with warranty parts, labor isn’t free.
- Are you sensitive to noise or need a unit that’s quiet?
If you answered “probably yes” to those, consider premium brands like Trane or Carrier instead—they often cost more up front but deliver longer life and better resale or service experiences.
Simple Tips if You Choose Goodman
- Make sure the installer is certified and has good reviews.
- Register the unit promptly to activate warranty coverage.
- Schedule regular preventive maintenance—clean coils, change filters.
- Use licensed HVAC technicians for repairs—especially for refrigerant or circuit issues.
- Keep documentation of all repairs and communications with both installer and Goodman.
Final Thoughts
Goodman air conditioners appeal to homeowners with tight budgets and those needing a low-cost solution upfront. They offer a strong parts warranty, easily available components, and a lower price point. But many users report unhappy experiences—coils leaking, compressors failing, installations done poorly, and warranty processes that feel like dead ends.
If you want a risk‑tolerant option and keep up with maintenance, Goodman *might* work out reasonably. But if reliability, quiet operation, and long-term support matter more than cost, most pros recommend looking at higher-end brands or making sure your installer is top-tier.
In the end, with Goodman you might save cash now—but you may pay more in frustration later. Choose wisely, research carefully, and if something feels off, don’t ignore it. A little planning goes a long way.