Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

High-efficiency gas furnace and AC combo at an unbeatable price point

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 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
$643
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system delivers serious value for budget-conscious homeowners and contractors who need a reliable dual-fuel solution without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace and 16 SEER2 air conditioner make it Energy Star certified, keeping utility bills reasonable while handling moderate climate zones effectively.

Review

The Goodman 2.5 ton gas furnace and air conditioner system represents the sweet spot where budget pricing meets solid engineering. At $643, this upflow configuration targets cost-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on efficiency ratings. The ENERGY STAR certification reflects genuinely competitive specs: 96% AFUE heating and 16 SEER2 cooling put this unit ahead of baseline models selling at similar price points. Online Supply packages this as a complete system solution, making it attractive for contractors juggling multiple installations.

Performance data confirms this system works. The furnace generates 40,000 BTU heating output with two-stage burner capability, meaning it ramps down during mild days rather than cycling full blast. Cooling delivers 29,000 BTU capacity through a scroll compressor running on R410A or R22 refrigerant. The multi-speed ECM blower reaches 800 CFM maximum airflow, flexing to match heating and cooling demands. A-coil configuration supports both upflow and horizontal mounting, providing installation flexibility. The 71.5 dB noise level during operation is average for this class, acceptable for most residential locations.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means lower heating costs, especially in colder months with 40,000 BTU output
  • 16 SEER2 cooling rating exceeds the baseline 13 SEER2 standard, delivering solid AC performance for 2.5 tons
  • Two-stage burner system provides modulating heat delivery, reducing short cycling and improving comfort
  • Multi-speed ECM blower motor adapts airflow up to 800 CFM, optimizing efficiency across seasons
  • Lifetime heat exchanger warranty plus 10 years unit and parts coverage with registration offers real peace of mind

Cons

  • Single-stage compressor lacks variable-speed cooling capacity, meaning less precise temperature control than higher-end models
  • 71.5 dB noise level is moderately loud for outdoor condenser operation, noticeable during AC season
  • Product specs show conflicting tonnage (title says 2.5 ton, specs list 3 ton), creating confusion about actual capacity

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates replacing aging equipment and contractors building mid-range rental or spec homes. This system makes sense for anyone prioritizing upfront savings without sacrificing fuel efficiency or basic reliability.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in extreme heat climates needing advanced cooling stages or noise-sensitive neighborhoods should consider variable-capacity competitors, despite higher cost.

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
$643
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

This upflow unit requires standard 115V single-phase 60Hz electrical service with breaker capacity between 17.1 and 25 amps, within reach of most homes. Suction and liquid line sizing demand 7/8 inch and 3/8 inch connections respectively. PVC flue capability simplifies venting compared to older metal ductwork systems. The 34.5 inch height and compact footprint fit tight mechanical closets. Contractors appreciate the 50-foot suction line insulation inclusion, reducing field preparation time.

Warranty & Reliability

Coverage includes lifetime protection on the heat exchanger, addressing the most expensive potential failure point. Ten-year unit replacement and ten-year parts warranties activate upon online registration, a minor administrative step protecting your investment. This tiered approach mirrors industry standards and reflects Goodman's confidence in component longevity. Read the warranty terms carefully regarding labor costs, which typically fall on the homeowner.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU29,000
Heating BTU40,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
WarrantyLifetime Heat Exchanger, 10 Years Unit Replacement, and 10 Years Parts with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)71.5
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarYes
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
Height34.5"
Width17.5"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGMEC96 Installation Manual GMEC96 Specifications Sheet GMEC96 Owner's Manual GMEC96 Service Manual GMEC96 Replacement Parts Manual GMEC96 Brochure Goodman Furnace 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
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorMulti-Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM800
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypeGas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this system actually deliver 2.5 tons or 3 tons of cooling? +
The specs indicate conflicting information: the title says 2.5 ton, but the detailed specifications list 3 ton tonnage. The 29,000 BTU cooling capacity aligns more closely with 2.5 ton rating. Contact Online Supply to clarify before purchasing, as this affects heating and cooling adequacy for your home size.
What electrical work is required for installation? +
You need a dedicated 115V, 60Hz single-phase circuit with 17.1 to 25 amp breaker capacity. Most homes have existing furnace circuits supporting this requirement. A licensed electrician should verify your panel capacity and run new circuits if necessary, typically a straightforward job costing $300 to $600.
How does 16 SEER2 rating compare to newer air conditioners? +
16 SEER2 exceeds the current 13 SEER2 federal minimum by 23 percent, delivering measurable energy savings. Mid-tier systems reach 18 to 20 SEER2, while premium models hit 20 plus SEER2. For moderate climates, 16 SEER2 provides excellent value without ultra-premium pricing.
Should I choose this over a variable-speed compressor unit? +
Variable-speed compressors offer finer temperature control and quieter operation, but cost significantly more. The single-stage design here works perfectly for stable climates and budget-first buyers. Consider variable-speed if you experience wide temperature swings or noise sensitivity matters to you.
What does the lifetime heat exchanger warranty actually cover? +
It covers manufacturing defects and premature heat exchanger failure indefinitely. Labor costs and repairs outside manufacturing defects are your responsibility. Online registration is required to activate this protection, a critical step many homeowners skip.

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