Goodman Furnace GC96VC Installation Manual

The Goodman GC96VC is a high-efficiency gas furnace with two-stage heating, variable-speed blower motor, and AFUE rating up to 96%. This condensing furnace features durable heat exchanger, diagnostic LED lights, multi-speed ECM blower, and compatibility with various thermostat systems. Below are key sections for safety, installation procedures, electrical connections, startup, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Installation Requirements 4. Specifications 5. Location and Clearance 6. Venting System 7. Gas Piping 8. Electrical Connections 9. Startup and Commissioning 10. Maintenance 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two-stage gas valve, variable-speed ECM blower motor, aluminized steel heat exchanger, diagnostic LED system, pressure switches, and integrated control board.

FeatureDescription
Two-stage heatingProvides efficient operation at low and high fire stages
Variable-speed ECM blowerEnergy-efficient motor with precise airflow control
Aluminized steel heat exchangerDurable construction for long service life
Diagnostic LED lightsVisual fault code display for troubleshooting
Multi-position installationCan be installed in upflow, downflow, or horizontal configurations
Direct spark ignitionReliable ignition system with flame sensor
Pressure switchesSafety devices to verify proper venting operation
Integrated control boardManages all furnace operations and safety controls
Condensate drainageBuilt-in system for condensate removal
AFUE ratingUp to 96% annual fuel utilization efficiency

Safety Precautions

Read all instructions before installation. Follow local codes and manufacturer guidelines.

  1. Gas line installation: Use proper pipe thread compound and pressure test all connections.
  2. Electrical connections: Disconnect power before servicing; follow NEC requirements.
  3. Venting: Ensure proper slope and termination clearances for PVC vent pipes.
  4. Combustion air: Provide adequate combustion and ventilation air per code requirements.

WARNING! Gas furnaces produce carbon monoxide; ensure proper venting and never operate without vent system. Install carbon monoxide detectors in living spaces.

Installation Requirements

Verify all components are present and undamaged before installation.

  1. Location selection: Choose area with adequate clearance and access for service.
  2. Combustion air: Ensure sufficient air supply for proper combustion and ventilation.
  3. Venting: Plan PVC vent pipe routing with proper slope and termination location.
  4. Gas supply: Verify adequate gas pressure and pipe sizing for furnace requirements.
  5. Electrical: Provide dedicated 120V circuit with proper grounding.
  6. Condensate drain: Route to approved drain location with proper trap.

CAUTION! Furnace is heavy; use proper lifting techniques and equipment. Ensure unit is level and securely mounted.

Specifications

Location and Clearance

Install in location meeting clearance requirements and local codes.

Minimum Clearances: 0 inches from sides and back, 24 inches from front for service access, 6 inches from combustible materials for vent pipes.

Installation positions: Upflow, downflow, or horizontal left/right. Ensure level installation with proper support. Maintain access to filter, burners, and controls. Provide adequate combustion air per installation instructions.

Venting System

Use PVC pipe for both intake and exhaust venting.

  1. Select proper pipe size (2" or 3" as specified for model).
  2. Maintain 1/4" per foot slope back to furnace.
  3. Use proper PVC cement and primer for all joints.
  4. Terminate vents according to local codes and manufacturer guidelines.
  5. Support pipes every 3-4 feet with proper hangers.

Tip: Test vent system for leaks before final installation. Ensure termination clearances from windows, doors, and air intakes.

Gas Piping

Install gas line with proper sizing and materials.

  1. Install manual shutoff valve within 6 feet of furnace.
  2. Use black iron pipe or approved flexible connector.
  3. Apply pipe thread compound to male threads only.
  4. Pressure test at 14 inches w.c. for 10 minutes with no drop.
  5. Connect to furnace with sediment trap/drip leg.
  6. Check gas pressure at manifold with manometer.

WARNING! Never use matches or open flame to check for gas leaks. Use approved leak detection solution. Follow all local gas codes.

Electrical Connections

Connect to dedicated 120V circuit with proper grounding.

  1. Disconnect power before making electrical connections.
  2. Install properly sized disconnect switch within sight of furnace.
  3. Connect line voltage wiring to furnace junction box.
  4. Connect thermostat wires to control board terminals.
  5. Connect humidifier or accessory wiring if applicable.
  6. Verify proper grounding of all components.

CAUTION! Follow NEC requirements and local electrical codes. Use copper conductors only.

Startup and Commissioning

Complete system checkout before initial operation.

  1. Verify all connections are secure and proper.
  2. Check gas pressure at manifold (3.5" w.c. natural gas).
  3. Set dip switches for proper airflow and staging.
  4. Check temperature rise across heat exchanger.
  5. Verify proper vent operation and draft.
  6. Test all safety controls and limit switches.
  7. Check condensate drain system operation.
  8. Program thermostat for proper staging operation.

WARNING! Never bypass safety controls. Complete combustion analysis and verify proper operation before leaving installation.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Annual maintenance includes: Clean or replace air filter, inspect heat exchanger for cracks, clean burners and flame sensor, check gas pressure and temperature rise, verify vent system integrity, clean condensate drain and trap, lubricate blower motor if required, check electrical connections.

CAUTION! Disconnect power and gas before performing maintenance. Only qualified technicians should service gas furnace components.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Furnace won't startPower, thermostat, door switchCheck disconnect switch, thermostat setting, door switch engagement.
No heatGas supply, ignition, pressure switchVerify gas valve on, check for spark/flame, test pressure switches.
Short cyclingFilter, airflow, limit switchReplace dirty filter, check blower operation, test high limit switch.
Blower won't runMotor, capacitor, control boardCheck motor voltage, test capacitor, verify control board signals.
Lockout conditionFlame sensor, ignition failureClean flame sensor, check gas pressure, verify proper ignition.

LED Codes: Refer to control board LED flash patterns for specific fault diagnosis.

Service: Contact qualified HVAC technician for complex issues. Goodman Manufacturing: 1-713-861-2500; www.goodmanmfg.com

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