Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

High-efficiency Goodman split system combining 96% furnace with 15 SEER cooling

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 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman system delivers excellent heating efficiency at 96% AFUE with solid cooling performance via 15 SEER2 equivalent ratings. It's ideal for homeowners replacing aging furnace-AC combos who want reliable operation without premium pricing, particularly in moderate climates where two-stage heating provides meaningful efficiency gains.

Review

The Goodman 2.5 ton gas furnace and air conditioner system represents a solid middle-ground choice for homeowners upgrading aging equipment. Goodman holds roughly 20 percent market share among contractors, built on reputation for straightforward reliability rather than cutting-edge innovation. This upflow configuration handles both heating and cooling duties in a compact 30-inch height, fitting standard closet and basement installations. The system pairs an 80,000 BTU furnace with a matching condenser unit rated for 29,000 cooling BTU.

Heating efficiency shines at 96% AFUE, among the highest available in mid-range systems, translating directly to lower winter utility bills. The variable-speed ECM blower motor adapts airflow between 0 and 1,600 CFM based on heating and cooling demand, reducing electricity waste during light-load operation. Two-stage burner configuration runs at reduced capacity during milder weather, improving comfort and efficiency. On the cooling side, 15 SEER2 rating (listed as 16 SEER1 in specs) provides respectable performance, though single-stage operation means no partial-load modulation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means lower heating bills and qualifies for Energy Star certification
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor delivers consistent comfort while reducing electricity consumption compared to single-speed alternatives
  • Two-stage burner automatically adjusts to heating demand, running at lower output on milder days for efficiency and quieter operation
  • PVC/plastic exhaust flue compatibility simplifies installation in homes without existing metal chimneys
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides meaningful protection on compressor and parts

Cons

  • 71.5 dB noise level runs slightly louder than premium inverter-driven systems, noticeable during heating cycles
  • Spec sheet lists both 15 SEER and 16 SEER1 ratings, creating confusion about actual cooling efficiency standard
  • Single-stage condenser cannot modulate cooling capacity on partial-load days, limiting efficiency compared to two-stage designs

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing complete replacements in residential homes want a proven Goodman platform with strong efficiency ratings at accessible price points. Homeowners in heating-dominated climates benefit most from the 96% AFUE furnace efficiency and two-stage staging.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in extreme heat climates prioritizing cooling efficiency or seeking variable-capacity cooling should explore two-stage condenser options instead.

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Installation requires 208/230V single-phase power with 17.1 to 25 amp breaker sizing, standard for most homes. PVC flue compatibility eliminates expensive masonry chimney requirements. Line set includes 50 feet of 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines with 3/4-inch insulation. Technicians should verify existing ductwork can handle 1,600 CFM maximum airflow and confirm proper refrigerant charging on the 3.5-ton condenser unit.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10-year parts and compressor warranty when registered online within 30 days of purchase. This coverage is competitive for equipment in this price tier. Some suppliers offer extended options, so ask at purchase. Warranty transfers to second owners, adding resale value. Check specific terms on evaporator coil coverage separately.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU29,000
Heating BTU80,000
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 Number7368835
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Flue LocationRight
Energy StarYes
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Height30"
Width21"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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
Tonnage3.5 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 15 SEER and 16 SEER1? +
SEER2 replaced older SEER ratings in 2023 with stricter testing conditions. This system likely carries both ratings during transition period. The 15 SEER2 is the current efficiency metric to use for comparisons. Check the AHRI certificate 7368835 for official confirmed ratings before purchase.
Will this fit my existing ductwork and electrical service? +
Maximum airflow reaches 1,600 CFM, suitable for homes with properly sized ducts. Have a contractor evaluate your existing ductwork for restrictions. Electrical service needs 208/230V single-phase 60 Hz power with 17-25 amp breaker, standard in most homes built after 1980.
How much will heating costs drop with 96% AFUE? +
96% AFUE furnaces convert 96 cents of every fuel dollar to heat, losing only 4 percent up the flue. Compared to 80% AFUE units, expect 15-20 percent lower heating bills. Savings depend on local gas rates, climate, and home insulation. Climate with 5,000+ heating degree days sees biggest returns.
How does this compare to higher-SEER systems costing more? +
Premium systems offer two-stage or variable cooling, yielding 18-21 SEER2 ratings and better part-load efficiency. This unit's single-stage condenser costs less upfront but misses seasonal efficiency gains. For moderate climates with balanced heating and cooling loads, this system delivers strong value.
Is the 10-year warranty enough protection? +
Yes, 10-year coverage on parts and compressor is industry-standard for this equipment tier. Most failures occur early or after 15 years. Extended warranties available from some dealers offer additional years but rarely prove cost-effective.

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