Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

Budget-friendly 96% AFUE furnace with variable-speed blower and Energy Star certification

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
2.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
Current Price
$3109
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system is ideal for budget-conscious homeowners replacing older furnaces or upgrading from baseline equipment. The 96% AFUE rating and variable-speed ECM blower motor deliver genuine energy savings that justify the modest upfront cost.

Review

The Goodman 2.5 Ton gas furnace and air conditioner system targets the sweet spot between budget constraints and efficiency demands. At $3,109, it competes directly with generic contractor specials while offering measurable performance upgrades. The downflow configuration makes it suitable for installations requiring horizontal or basement placement. Goodman's reputation for straightforward reliability, combined with a 10-year parts warranty, positions this system as a practical choice for cost-conscious homeowners and volume contractors.

Performance specifications tell a strong efficiency story. The furnace delivers 60,000 BTU heating output at 96% AFUE, meaning 96 cents of every heating dollar converts to usable warmth instead of escaping through the chimney. The variable-speed ECM blower motor can deliver up to 1,200 CFM and adjusts speeds continuously rather than running full blast. Cooling arrives via R410A refrigerant in a scroll compressor. The two-stage burner reduces cycling by operating at partial capacity during shoulder seasons, improving both comfort and efficiency.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs versus 80-90% models by 6-16% annually
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor adapts airflow for better comfort and quieter operation than single-speed alternatives
  • Energy Star certified, which qualifies many buyers for local utility rebates reducing true cost of ownership
  • Two-stage burner allows lower heating output during mild weather, improving efficiency and consistency
  • PVC exhaust compatible with modern condensing furnace installations in tight attic or basement spaces

Cons

  • SEER rating mismatch in specs (listed as both 14 SEER and 16 SEER) creates confusion about actual cooling efficiency
  • 3 Ton cooling capacity mismatched to 2.5 Ton system rating suggests either spec error or oversizing in cooling
  • 71.5 dBA noise level is slightly louder than premium competitors, noticeable in finished basement installations

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in cold climates prioritizing heating efficiency over cooling performance, or those in mixed climates replacing furnaces older than 15 years. Contractors valuing straightforward installation with minimal ductwork modifications benefit from the downflow configuration and standard electrical requirements.

Consider Alternatives If

Homeowners in hot climates where cooling dominates usage should look for systems with higher SEER ratings or consider the apparent cooling tonnage discrepancy before purchasing.

2.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
$3109
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

This unit requires standard 208-230V single-phase electrical service with a 17.1 to 25 amp breaker, making it compatible with most residential panels. PVC exhaust simplifies venting through exterior walls or attics without rigid ductwork. Downflow orientation suits basements and utility closets better than upflow. Standard line set requirements include 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction lines with 3/4 inch insulation. Installation difficulty remains moderate for certified HVAC technicians.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10 years of parts coverage with online registration, a solid baseline for mid-tier equipment. The warranty covers compressor, blower motor, and furnace components against manufacturing defects. Registration is mandatory to activate full coverage, so documentation matters. Extended warranties are available but not included. This warranty reflects industry standard for non-premium brands, adequate for expected 15-20 year equipment lifespan.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU29,000
Heating BTU60,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)71.5
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
AHRI Certificate Number7368838
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Energy StarYes
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Height30"
Width17.5"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPF Installation Manual CAPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil 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.
SEER1 (Efficiency)16
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Max Breaker Size25 amps
Min. Breaker Size17.1 amps
Tonnage3 Ton
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the spec sheet list both 14 SEER and 16 SEER ratings? +
The discrepancy appears to be a data entry error between title and specs. The 16 SEER1 listing is likely the correct cooling efficiency rating. Contact the supplier to confirm actual SEER performance before purchase, as this affects cooling cost estimates and rebate eligibility.
Is the 3 Ton cooling tonnage correct for a 2.5 Ton system? +
This mismatch suggests either a spec error or intentional oversizing for cooling performance. A 2.5 Ton heating capacity typically pairs with 2.5 Ton cooling. Verify actual cooling tonnage with the seller before ordering to ensure proper system matching and AHRI certification validity.
How much can I save annually with the 96% AFUE rating? +
A typical household heating 1,500 square feet in a cold climate using an 80% AFUE furnace spends roughly $1,200 annually on heating fuel. Upgrading to 96% AFUE reduces that to approximately $1,000, saving $200 per year. Payback depends on local fuel costs and heating degree-days.
Can I install this myself, or do I need a contractor? +
Professional installation is strongly recommended. Furnace installation requires EPA refrigerant certification, gas line compliance with local codes, and AHRI certification verification. Improper installation voids the 10-year warranty and creates safety hazards. Budget $500-1,500 for professional installation.
What makes the variable-speed blower worth the extra cost? +
The ECM motor runs only at necessary speeds, reducing energy consumption by 20-40% compared to single-speed blowers. It also provides quieter operation, better humidity control, and longer equipment lifespan through reduced wear cycles.

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