Independent Review · Updated June 2026

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

High-efficiency modulating furnace with 97% AFUE and ENERGY STAR certified 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 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
$115
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Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This is an excellent choice for homeowners upgrading to a high-efficiency combo system in moderate climates where both heating and cooling matter. The 97% AFUE furnace paired with 16 SEER1 cooling delivers year-round savings, though the 3-ton capacity means it's sized for medium homes, not large ones.

Review

Goodman's 2.5-ton horizontal system combines gas heating and air conditioning in one package, marketed as a complete solution for homeowners upgrading from aging split systems. At $115, this unit sits in the affordable-to-mid-range for combination systems. The horizontal configuration works best in attics or utility closets with limited headroom. Goodman maintains solid market presence among contractors due to straightforward design and parts availability, though they're not premium-tier like Lennox or Carrier.

Heating delivers 80,000 BTU through a modulating burner that continuously adjusts flame intensity, achieving 97% AFUE. Cooling pulls 29,000 BTU at 16 SEER1 with R410A refrigerant and a scroll compressor. The variable-speed ECM blower reaches 1,200 CFM maximum and runs at 71.5 dBA, noticeably quieter than fixed-speed alternatives. Electrical draw sits between 17.1 and 25 amps at 115V single phase, simplifying residential wiring. ENERGY STAR certification confirms real-world efficiency gains compared to baseline models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% models
  • 16 SEER1 cooling rating with ENERGY STAR certification means lower summer utility bills
  • Modulating gas burner adjusts output in real time, improving comfort and efficiency
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor runs quieter at 71.5 dBA and uses less electricity
  • Scroll compressor is proven reliable with minimal maintenance needs
  • Plastic/PVC exhaust allows flexible venting without masonry constraints
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection

Cons

  • Single-stage compressor lacks the efficiency gains of two-stage or variable-speed models
  • 3-ton cooling capacity may be undersized for homes larger than 2,000 square feet in hot climates
  • 115V electrical requirement limits installation flexibility compared to 208/230V units
  • No dual-fuel backup capability for propane-only systems without conversion

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners with 1,500 to 2,000 square foot homes in moderate climates looking to replace aging furnaces or air conditioning units. This system makes sense if you want measurable energy savings without premium pricing and value straightforward installation.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers with very large homes, extreme climates requiring two-stage cooling, or those seeking the lowest possible price should compare single-stage alternatives or consider tonnage upgrades.

2.5 Ton 15 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
$115
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Installation

Horizontal A-coil configuration requires floor or attic mounting with clearance for the 34.5-inch height and 28.75-inch depth. Suction line uses 7/8-inch piping with 3/4-inch insulation, while liquid line is 3/8-inch. Plastic exhaust venting exits right-side flue location. Installation demands proper refrigerant recovery, brazing for line connections, and electrical work within 17.1 to 25-amp breaker limits. Most contractors complete this in 4 to 6 hours for straightforward replacements.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10 years of parts coverage when you register online after purchase. This covers compressor, heat exchanger, and blower motor failure. Labor costs remain your responsibility, making extended service plans worthwhile in years 6 through 10. Registration typically takes minutes through Goodman's website using serial number and proof of purchase.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU29,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A
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
Tonnage3 Ton
Height34.5"
Width17.5"
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 Number7424270
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this unit right for my 2,500 square foot home? +
The 3-ton capacity handles approximately 1,800 to 2,100 square feet comfortably in moderate climates. Homes larger than 2,200 square feet in hot regions will struggle to reach set temperatures. Get a manual J load calculation from your contractor before ordering to confirm proper sizing.
Can I install this myself if I'm handy? +
Absolutely not. This requires EPA-certified technician work for refrigerant handling, plus gas line connections demand licensed plumbers or HVAC pros in most states. Improper installation voids the 10-year warranty and creates safety hazards. Budget $1,500 to $2,500 for professional installation.
How much will this save me compared to my 15-year-old system? +
The 97% AFUE furnace saves roughly 15 to 20 percent on heating costs versus 80% AFUE models. The 16 SEER1 air conditioning saves 20 to 25 percent on cooling compared to 10 SEER units. Actual savings depend on your local energy rates and climate.
Why does this have 16 SEER1 when the title says 15 SEER? +
Title wording reflects older SEER ratings before the SEER2 standard. This unit actually achieves 16 SEER1 according to specs, which is above typical 15 SEER baseline. Always verify actual spec sheets rather than relying on product titles alone.
What if the furnace fails after 10 years? +
Warranty expires at year 10, leaving you responsible for all repairs. After a decade, replacement typically costs $3,000 to $5,000 installed. Goodman units often last 15 to 20 years with maintenance, so replacement won't be immediate.

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