Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

Premium Goodman system combines 97% AFUE heating with 16 SEER cooling efficiency

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
2.5 Ton 15 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman combo system excels for homeowners prioritizing heating efficiency in mixed climates, particularly those with natural gas or propane access. The 97% AFUE furnace and 16 SEER2 air conditioner make it ideal for regions with significant winter heating demands where furnace performance matters most.

Review

Goodman's combined furnace and air conditioning system represents a solid middle-ground solution for homeowners seeking balanced performance across heating and cooling. This downflow configuration carries respectable efficiency ratings and Goodman's established reputation for reliable equipment. The system targets contractors and DIY installers comfortable with gas furnace work who want modern efficiency without premium pricing. It competes directly with entry-level systems from Lennox, Carrier, and Rheem in the contractor-grade segment.

The furnace delivers exceptional heating efficiency at 97% AFUE using a modulating burner that adjusts flame intensity to match demand. The air conditioning side produces 29,000 BTU cooling output with 16 SEER2 efficiency, meeting Energy Star requirements. The variable-speed ECM blower motor ramps from 0 to 1,600 CFM, reducing unnecessary runtime and electricity consumption. Combined with scroll compressor technology and R410A refrigerant compatibility, this system handles moderate to heavy use without oversizing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs in cold climates, outperforming standard 80-90% units
  • 16 SEER2 rating on the air conditioning side provides strong cooling efficiency for Energy Star compliance
  • Modulating burner stages deliver precise heating control, reducing energy waste and improving comfort
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor optimizes airflow from 0-1600 CFM, reducing runtime and electricity use
  • 10-year warranty with online registration offers solid protection on a complete system
  • Downflow/horizontal A-coil configuration fits attic, basement, or crawlspace installations

Cons

  • Spec sheet shows conflicting tonnage data, listing both 2.5 and 5 ton ratings, creating confusion about actual capacity
  • 71.5 dB noise level is moderately loud during operation, noticeable in quiet home environments
  • Single-stage condenser limits part-load efficiency compared to two-stage alternatives
  • Requires plastic/PVC exhaust flue, which adds installation cost and limits placement flexibility

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors and homeowners in northern or mixed climates who heat primarily with natural gas or propane and want to maximize furnace efficiency. This system suits anyone replacing an aging furnace who values long-term energy savings and can accommodate a downflow installation.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in mild climates should avoid this unit since the high AFUE rating delivers minimal ROI without serious heating loads. Those needing quiet operation or flexible ductwork configurations may find better alternatives.

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Installation requires proper gas line sizing, adequate venting with plastic PVC ducting, and electrical service supporting 25-amp maximum breaker capacity. The downflow configuration needs vertical clearance of 34.5 inches and adequate return air access. Technicians must manage both refrigerant lines with specified 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction sizing, plus 3/4 inch suction line insulation. Proper ductwork design optimizes the 1,600 CFM maximum airflow.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides a 10-year parts and labor warranty when you register the system online within the specified timeframe. This covers the furnace heat exchanger, compressor, and major components against manufacturing defects. Registration is straightforward and protects your investment across the full combo unit. Standard Goodman terms apply, with normal maintenance required to maintain coverage.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU29,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years 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
Tonnage5 Ton
Height34.5"
Width21"
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.
ConfigurationDownflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7424271
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the spec sheet show both 2.5 ton and 5 ton ratings? +
This appears to be a documentation error from the manufacturer or supplier. The 29,000 BTU cooling capacity suggests 2.5 ton operation, but the 5 ton listing is confusing. Contact Online Supply or Goodman directly to confirm actual cooling capacity before purchase, as this affects system sizing and efficiency calculations.
Can I install this in an attic or crawlspace? +
Yes. The downflow/horizontal A-coil configuration works in both locations. You need adequate space for the 34.5 inch height, 21 inch width, and 28.75 inch depth. Ensure proper return air access and maintain clearance around the unit for maintenance access and service.
How does 16 SEER2 compare to typical air conditioning systems? +
16 SEER2 is solid mid-tier performance. It outperforms older 13-14 SEER units but trails premium 18-20+ SEER models. For mixed climates where cooling isn't extreme, this rating provides good efficiency without premium pricing. Heating-dominated climates benefit more from the 97% AFUE furnace than air conditioning ratings.
Is this system better than a Lennox or Carrier equivalent? +
Goodman competes well on efficiency and price but typically trails in build quality perception. The 97% AFUE and 16 SEER2 match entry Lennox and Carrier models. Goodman excels for budget-conscious contractors. Premium brands offer quieter operation and longer compressor warranties, justified by higher costs.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
The warranty covers manufacturing defects in parts and labor for 10 years from installation with online registration. It includes the heat exchanger, compressor, and coil. Normal maintenance and wear items aren't covered. Read Goodman's full terms for specific exclusions and claim procedures.

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