Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

Solid 2.5-ton combo system with 96% efficiency and 13 SEER for budget-conscious buyers

7.8
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.5
Value
8.2
Installation
8.0
Warranty
7.8
2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman package system works best for homeowners replacing older equipment in modest-sized homes or those prioritizing heating efficiency over cooling performance. The 96% AFUE furnace is the standout feature, while the 13 SEER air conditioner offers respectable cooling without premium pricing.

Review

Goodman's 2.5-ton horizontal package system lands squarely in the practical middle of the HVAC market. This combination furnace and air conditioner targets homeowners who need dependable heating and cooling without paying for premium variable-speed components. At this price point, the system delivers core functionality that contractors have trusted for years. The horizontal A-coil configuration suits tight attic spaces or crawlspaces where vertical installation isn't feasible.

The furnace shines with its 96% AFUE rating, meaning 96 cents of every heating dollar converts to useful heat. Cooling performance sits at 13 SEER, meeting current DOE standards for 2.5-ton units but lacking the efficiency of 16+ SEER models. The furnace produces 40,000 BTU of heat while the air conditioner delivers 30,000 BTU of cooling capacity. Single-stage operation means the system runs at full capacity whenever called, without modulation for partial loads or increased comfort.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-92% alternatives
  • 13 SEER cooling meets current minimum federal standards for 2.5-ton units
  • Multi-speed blower motor allows customized airflow and quieter operation modes
  • 40,000 BTU heating and 30,000 BTU cooling handle most single-family homes adequately
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid long-term protection coverage

Cons

  • Single-stage compressor and burner lack modulation for peak efficiency and comfort
  • 73 dB noise level is louder than variable-speed competitors, noticeable during operation
  • Not Energy Star certified, missing qualification for some utility rebates and incentives

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates seeking a straightforward furnace and AC replacement without fancy features or premium costs. This system suits those who heat more than they cool and want reliable equipment backed by strong warranty support.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in hot climates prioritizing cooling efficiency, those wanting variable-speed quiet operation, or anyone qualifying for Energy Star rebates should explore competing options.

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Installation requires standard 115V single-phase 60Hz power with breaker protection between 16.7 and 25 amps. The unit measures 34.5 inches tall, 17.5 inches wide, and 28.75 inches deep, fitting standard horizontal return plenums. Suction line insulation is 3/4 inch thick with 50 feet of line included. Plastic or PVC exhaust flue venting on the right side accommodates modern condensing furnace design.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides a solid 10-year parts warranty when you register the system online after installation. This coverage protects against compressor failure, heat exchanger defects, and component breakdowns. Registration is straightforward and unlocks the full warranty period. Labor coverage depends on your contractor or service plan, so clarify those details separately.

Specifications

SKULS38343850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU30,000
Heating BTU40,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)22.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarNo
SEER1 (Efficiency)13
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeReciprocating
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line3/4"
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Max Breaker Size25 amps
Min. Breaker Size16.7 amps
Tonnage2.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height34.5"
Width17.5"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Installation Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
Safety InformationPROPOSITION 65 WARNING This product and many products on our site may contain a chemical know to the state of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information about Proposition 65 please Click Here.
ConfigurationUpflow/Horizontal
StyleA-Coil
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorMulti Speed
Maximum CFM800
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesSingle
Fuel TypeGas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 96% AFUE rating significant? +
AFUE measures heating efficiency as a percentage. At 96%, this furnace converts nearly all fuel to heat compared to older units at 80% or 90%. Over a heating season, this translates to tangible savings on gas bills, especially in cold climates. The remaining 4% escapes through the exhaust flue, which is condensing technology at work.
Can this system handle a larger home? +
The 2.5-ton capacity suits homes around 2,500-3,000 square feet depending on insulation and climate. Undersizing creates inadequate heating or cooling, while oversizing wastes energy. Have a load calculation performed before purchase to confirm tonnage matches your specific home.
Why is 13 SEER considered adequate? +
The DOE currently requires minimum 13-14 SEER for new systems in most regions. Units at 16 SEER or higher cost significantly more but recover costs slowly in mild climates. For moderate cooling needs, 13 SEER delivers acceptable performance without premium pricing. Heavy cooling climates benefit more from higher SEER investments.
How does this compare to higher-end Goodman models? +
Upgraded Goodman systems add variable-speed compressors and multi-stage burners for quieter operation and better part-load efficiency. Those cost 30-50% more but deliver marginal comfort gains for most homeowners. This unit provides sensible baseline performance for cost-conscious buyers.
Is online registration required for warranty coverage? +
Yes, registration activates the full 10-year warranty. Without it, coverage defaults to a shorter period. Registration takes minutes through Goodman's website using your model and serial number.

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