| Square Footage | Furnace BTU |
|---|---|
| 1,000-1,200 sq. ft. Home | 40,000 - 60,000 BTU |
| 1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Home | 60,000 BTU |
| 1,500-1,800 sq. ft. Home | 60,000 - 80,000 BTU |
| 1,800-2,500 sq. ft. Home | 80,000 - 100,000 BTU |
| 2,500-3,500 sq. ft. Home | 100,000 to 120,000 BTU |
The Goodman GMVM97 represents the top tier of Goodman’s furnace lineup — their most advanced, most efficient, and most feature-packed model. Engineered for superior comfort, quiet operation, and energy efficiency, it combines smart technology with dependable performance at a surprisingly affordable price for a modulating furnace.
This in-depth review breaks down everything you need to know about the GMVM97, including its efficiency, features, warranty, and how it compares to other Goodman models to help you make the right choice for your home.
Average Price (with Installation): $4,600 – $5,200
Top Features:
Modulating burner for precise temperature control and maximum efficiency
Variable-speed ECM blower for quiet and consistent airflow
Advanced ComfortBridge™ communicating technology
CoolCloud™ HVAC app for technician access and diagnostics
Lower NOx emissions than many furnaces in its class
Secondary heat exchanger for improved energy utilization
Self-diagnostic system for faster troubleshooting and maintenance
Compatible with both communicating and traditional thermostats
Excellent warranty protection for long-term peace of mind
The GMVM97 is Goodman’s most advanced residential furnace, designed for homeowners who want maximum comfort and energy savings. With its modulating gas valve, the furnace adjusts its heating output in small increments based on your home’s needs — maintaining a steady temperature, minimizing noise, and improving humidity control.
With an AFUE of 98% and ENERGY STAR® certification, this model not only saves on heating bills but also often qualifies for local rebates or energy incentives. It’s also equipped with Goodman’s exclusive ComfortBridge™ and CoolCloud™ technologies, making it both smart and easy to maintain.
In short, the GMVM97 is a premium yet cost-effective choice for homeowners looking to balance high performance with long-term reliability.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| AFUE Efficiency | 98% |
| Burner Type | Modulating |
| Blower Type | Variable-speed ECM |
| ENERGY STAR Certified | Yes |
| Heating Capacity | 29,400 – 97,000 BTU |
| Heat Exchanger Warranty | Lifetime (with registration) |
| Parts Warranty | 10 years |
| Unit Replacement Warranty | 10 years (with registration) |
Goodman’s proprietary ComfortBridge system allows the furnace to communicate internally with key components and your thermostat, automatically optimizing performance for better comfort and efficiency. It intelligently adjusts the furnace’s operation based on current temperature, humidity, and heating demand — ensuring consistent warmth with minimal energy waste.
This mobile app gives technicians wireless access to the furnace’s diagnostics and performance data, streamlining installation, configuration, and service calls. It helps ensure accurate setup and faster repairs, saving time and minimizing potential issues.
Tubular primary heat exchanger for enhanced durability and longevity
Silicon nitride igniter for reliable, energy-efficient operation
Variable-speed induced draft blower for quieter performance
Cabinet insulation to minimize heat loss and operational noise
Quick-drain condensate system to prevent leaks and improve reliability
Compatible with air cleaners and humidifiers for improved indoor air quality
Despite its premium design, Goodman maintains its reputation for offering industry-leading warranty protection on the GMVM97:
Lifetime heat exchanger warranty
10-year parts warranty
10-year unit replacement warranty (if the heat exchanger fails within 10 years)
To qualify for full warranty benefits:
Register the furnace within 60 days of installation.
Have the system installed by a licensed HVAC professional.
Schedule regular maintenance as outlined in the user manual.
Failing to register or using unlicensed installers may reduce or void coverage.
The GM9C96 is a mid-range, two-stage furnace that delivers strong performance at a lower cost. While it lacks the GMVM97’s modulating burner and advanced features, it still offers a 96% AFUE, secondary heat exchanger, and ENERGY STAR certification.
If you’re on a tighter budget but still want efficiency and reliability, the GM9C96 offers excellent value — though without the same precision comfort or smart technology.
The GMVS96-U is part of Goodman’s ultra-low NOx lineup, making it a better option for eco-conscious buyers or those in regions with strict emissions standards. It’s a single-stage furnace, but still includes a variable-speed blower, ComfortBridge, and CoolCloud support.
However, with its 96% AFUE, it’s slightly less efficient than the GMVM97’s 98%. The difference in performance is small, but the GMVS96-U produces ultra-low emissions, which the GMVM97 does not.
The GCVM97 and GMVM97 are nearly identical — both are modulating, variable-speed, and ENERGY STAR certified. The primary difference is that the GCVM97 has a 97% AFUE, while the GMVM97 reaches 98%.
The GCVM97 also tends to cost slightly more ($4,700 – $5,300 installed) despite the lower efficiency, so the GMVM97 is typically the better value overall.
The Goodman GMVM97 is the brand’s top-performing furnace — a combination of intelligent design, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability. Its modulating operation and variable-speed blower deliver unmatched comfort, while Goodman’s smart control systems ensure it runs efficiently year-round.
With strong warranty protection and ENERGY STAR® performance, it’s an excellent choice for homeowners who want premium heating without paying a premium price.
