Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 16 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

High-efficiency dual-fuel system with 96% AFUE and 16 SEER for serious savings

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
2.5 Ton 16 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
$115
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman system excels for homeowners seeking maximum heating efficiency with solid cooling performance in mixed climates. The 96% AFUE furnace and 16 SEER condenser make it ideal for regions with significant heating seasons where gas furnace efficiency directly impacts annual utility bills.

Review

Goodman positions this 2.5-ton system as a workhorse for homeowners seeking dual-fuel versatility without premium pricing. The combination of 96% AFUE heating efficiency and 16 SEER cooling places it squarely in the high-efficiency category, appealing to both cost-conscious buyers and contractors managing residential installations. At $115, the entry price suggests this may be a component pricing scenario or promotional offer rather than complete system cost.

Heating performance peaks at 80,000 BTU output with two-stage burner control, while cooling delivers 29,000 BTU capacity with a single-stage scroll compressor. The variable-speed ECM blower reaches 1,600 CFM maximum, distributing conditioned air efficiently across the home. Energy Star certification confirms the 16 SEER rating meets stringent EPA standards, and the plastic PVC exhaust flue option simplifies installation compared to metal vent requirements in older equipment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency significantly reduces heating costs in cold climates compared to standard 80-90% models
  • 16 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for Energy Star, delivering quieter operation at 71.5 dB and lower summer energy use
  • Two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower provide precise temperature control and improved comfort throughout the year
  • Dual fuel capability supports both natural gas and propane, offering flexibility for various geographic locations
  • Lifetime heat exchanger warranty plus 10-year parts coverage with registration provides strong long-term protection

Cons

  • Single-stage condenser limits cooling modulation compared to two-stage or variable-capacity units in hot climates
  • 3.5-ton condenser capacity exceeds the stated 2.5-ton system rating, creating potential matching complications during installation
  • 71.5 dB noise level is moderate to loud, which may be noticeable in bedrooms or quiet zones compared to quieter 65-68 dB units

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in northern and mixed climates where heating dominates the annual HVAC load will maximize ROI with this system's 96% AFUE rating. Contractors valuing straightforward installation and Goodman's reputation for reliability also find this configuration practical for residential retrofit projects.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in hot climates prioritizing advanced cooling features should explore two-stage or variable-capacity systems instead, as the single-stage compressor delivers consistent rather than modulated cooling performance.

2.5 Ton 16 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
$115
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Horizontal/upflow A-coil configuration fits standard attics and basements with 34.5 inches height and 21-inch width. The scroll compressor requires 3/8-inch liquid lines and 7/8-inch suction lines with 3/4-inch insulation thickness over 50 feet of lineset. Electrical demands specify 115V single-phase 60 Hz service with 17.1 to 25-amp breaker sizing, standard for residential circuits.

Warranty & Reliability

The lifetime heat exchanger warranty covers furnace failure indefinitely with online registration, addressing the most expensive potential repair. Ten-year parts coverage backs compressors, motors, and other components, contingent on proper installation and maintenance. This tiered approach balances manufacturer confidence in longevity against realistic failure rates.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU29,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
WarrantyLifetime Heat Exchanger 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
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Height34.5"
Width21"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Install 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.
ConfigurationUpflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7368835
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the condenser show 3.5 tons when the system is labeled 2.5 tons? +
The tonnage discrepancy typically reflects AHRI certification matching and equipment interchangeability ratings. Verify your actual system tonnage with the installer to ensure condenser and furnace nameplate ratings align. Mismatches can reduce efficiency and void warranties if not factory-matched.
Can this system connect to existing ductwork designed for standard equipment? +
Yes, the horizontal A-coil configuration and 1,600 CFM maximum airflow integrate with most residential ductwork. However, have an HVAC technician verify your duct sizing and sealing, as undersized ducts reduce the variable-speed blower's effectiveness and efficiency gains.
How much heating cost reduction should I expect from 96% AFUE versus 80% AFUE? +
A 16-percentage-point efficiency gain reduces heating energy consumption approximately 20 percent. In cold climates with $2,000 annual heating costs, this translates to roughly $400 yearly savings, with payback depending on system cost and local gas prices.
Is 16 SEER sufficient for cooling, or should I look at higher ratings? +
16 SEER delivers solid cooling efficiency and qualifies for many utility rebates. However, two-stage or inverter-driven systems reach 18-24 SEER in hot climates. For moderate summers, 16 SEER balances efficiency gains with equipment cost and complexity.
What does the lifetime heat exchanger warranty actually cover? +
It covers crack or corrosion failure of the furnace heat exchanger indefinitely with registration. Labor and other parts require the 10-year coverage. This protects against the most expensive furnace failure mode, though does not extend to normal wear or improper maintenance.

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