Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

Budget-friendly 2.5-ton system delivers solid efficiency and quiet operation for modest homes

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
2.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
$2581
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman 2.5-ton horizontal system is ideal for homeowners and contractors working with tight budgets who need reliable heating and cooling without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace and 16 SEER2 cooling deliver respectable efficiency that qualifies for Energy Star, making it practical for homes under 2,000 square feet.

Review

Goodman's 2.5-ton horizontal gas furnace and air conditioner system offers a practical middle ground for contractors and homeowners managing installation budgets. At $2,581, it undercuts premium brands while maintaining respectable efficiency ratings that appeal to cost-conscious buyers. The horizontal configuration is specifically designed for crawlspaces and attics where vertical units create clearance problems, making this a smart choice for retrofit projects or tight mechanical spaces.

The 96% AFUE furnace burns fuel efficiently during heating season, while the 16 SEER2 cooling rating delivers solid performance for moderate climates. The variable-speed ECM blower motor runs at 1,200 CFM maximum and adjusts speed based on demand, reducing energy waste compared to fixed-speed alternatives. Two heating stages and single-stage cooling provide adequate modulation, though the single-stage compressor does mean your air conditioner runs at full capacity rather than part-load efficiency.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency minimizes heating costs and qualifies for Energy Star certification
  • 16 SEER2 cooling rating exceeds baseline efficiency standards at this price point
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts to your home's actual heating and cooling needs, improving comfort
  • Two-stage burner and single-stage compressor provide good modulation without excessive cycling
  • Horizontal configuration fits tight spaces like crawlspaces or attics where vertical units won't work
  • PVC exhaust flue requirement simplifies venting in modern homes and reduces installation costs
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and defects comprehensively

Cons

  • 71.5 dB noise level is moderately loud for basement or utility room placement, though acceptable for most installations
  • Single-stage condenser means cooling runs at full capacity or off, with no intermediate efficiency option
  • R410A refrigerant requires certified technician for service, limiting DIY maintenance options
  • 29,000 cooling BTU is conservative for truly hot climates without optimal ductwork

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors and homeowners installing systems in 1,200 to 1,800 square foot homes, particularly those with horizontal installation requirements in crawlspaces or attics. This unit suits budget-conscious buyers who want solid efficiency and reliability without paying for premium variable-speed compressors.

Consider Alternatives If

Homeowners in very hot climates needing maximum cooling capacity, those seeking whisper-quiet operation below 68 dB, or anyone requiring variable-speed compressor technology for ultimate efficiency.

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
$2581
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

This system requires standard HVAC installation skills and professional refrigerant handling. The plastic PVC exhaust flue is easier and cheaper to vent than metal alternatives, simplifying chimney work. Horizontal mounting fits tight spaces easily, though you'll need proper return and supply ductwork. Standard 208/230V single-phase power with 17.1 to 25-amp breaker sizing fits typical residential electrical panels without upgrades.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman backs this unit with a 10-year parts warranty when you register online after installation. Coverage includes compressor defects, motor failures, and heat exchanger cracks, protecting your investment reasonably well. However, labor costs aren't covered, so factor repair service calls into your long-term maintenance budget. Registration must occur within 60 days of purchase to activate full coverage.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU29,000
Heating BTU60,000
RefrigerantR410A
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
ConfigurationHorizontal
Energy StarYes
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Height32.25"
Width29"
Depth29"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Specifications Goodman Installation Manual Goodman Warranty Information Goodman Service Instructions Goodman Kit Instructions Goodman Parts Manual 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.
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
Tonnage2.5 Ton
StyleA-Coil
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
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this system efficient enough to qualify for rebates? +
Yes, the 96% AFUE furnace and 16 SEER2 air conditioner both exceed Energy Star minimums, making you eligible for many utility company and manufacturer rebates. Check with your local provider, as some offer $500 to $1,500 incentives for systems meeting these efficiency thresholds.
Can I install this myself, or do I need a licensed contractor? +
You need a licensed HVAC technician for refrigerant handling, electrical work, and gas connections. DIY installation voids your 10-year warranty and violates EPA regulations. Professional installation ensures proper airflow, charging, and safety compliance.
How much will this system cost to run annually? +
Operating costs depend on your climate and utility rates. A 96% AFUE furnace running 1,000 heating hours annually uses roughly 625 therms of gas. At $1.50 per therm, expect $940 in heating costs plus cooling expenses that vary by local electricity rates and usage patterns.
How does this Goodman compare to mid-tier Carrier or Lennox systems? +
Goodman offers lower upfront cost but lacks variable-speed compressors found in Carrier's Comfort series or Lennox's XC models. Those brands cost $3,500 to $4,200 but deliver slightly better part-load efficiency. This Goodman suits budget buyers; premium brands suit efficiency-focused buyers willing to spend more.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
Parts coverage includes the compressor, motors, coils, and heat exchanger for 10 years with online registration. Labor is not covered, so service calls cost extra. Damage from improper installation or refrigerant mishandling voids coverage.

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