Goodman Insufficient Cooling Capacity / Poor Heat Transfer

Goodman air conditioner runs but does not cool the house adequately

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Possible Causes

Dirty evaporator coil in Goodman air handler or furnace, Dirty condenser coil on outdoor unit, Low refrigerant charge due to leak, Undersized ductwork or restricted airflow

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power at the breaker and disconnect before removing panels. Do not open the refrigerant system yourself.

Steps to improve cooling:

  • 1. Replace air filters: Install new filters in the Goodman air handler or furnace. Use the correct size and avoid overly restrictive high-MERV filters unless ductwork is designed for them.
  • 2. Clean return and supply grilles: Vacuum dust from all registers and returns. Ensure furniture or rugs are not blocking airflow.
  • 3. Clean outdoor condenser coil: Remove debris from around the Goodman condenser. With power off, remove the top fan assembly if needed and rinse the coil from inside out using a garden hose at low pressure.
  • 4. Check thermostat settings: Set the thermostat to COOL and fan to AUTO. Verify the temperature setpoint is at least 3–4°F below room temperature.
  • 5. Inspect attic or crawlspace ducts: Look for crushed, disconnected, or leaking flex ducts. Reconnect loose ducts with proper mastic and straps.

When to call a professional: If cooling is still poor, a technician should check refrigerant charge, measure temperature split across the coil, and evaluate system sizing and duct design.

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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Evaporator coil or condenser coil
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