Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

High-efficiency 3.5-ton combo system with 96% AFUE and 13 SEER for budget-conscious upgrades.

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman system works best for homeowners replacing older units in moderate climates where single-stage cooling is acceptable. The 96% AFUE furnace justifies the investment in gas heating regions, while 13 SEER cooling provides solid efficiency without premium pricing.

Review

Goodman's 3.5-ton horizontal system combines a high-efficiency gas furnace with a mid-range air conditioner, targeting contractors and homeowners who want solid performance without luxury pricing. The horizontal configuration and A-coil design make it practical for attics and tight mechanical closets. Online Supply positions this as a no-frills but capable replacement system for homes needing both heating and cooling, with straightforward single-stage operation that contractors know well.

The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU of heating output at 96% AFUE, placing it in the high-efficiency tier where every heating degree-day translates to measurable savings over a 10-year lifespan. The air conditioning side produces 42,000 BTU cooling at 13 SEER, which uses R410A or R22 refrigerant depending on configuration. The reciprocating compressor runs single-stage, meaning it cycles on and off rather than modulating, which is simpler but less efficient during partial-load conditions common in spring and fall.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to older 80-85% units
  • 13 SEER cooling at 3.5 tons, delivering 42,000 BTU with respectable energy performance
  • Horizontal configuration with A-coil design fits tight attic and basement installations
  • Multi-speed blower motor optimizes comfort across heating and cooling seasons
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid customer protection
  • Single-stage compressor and burner simplify maintenance and reduce failure points

Cons

  • Single-stage cooling means compressor runs at full capacity, reducing efficiency in mild weather conditions
  • 13 SEER is respectable but not ENERGY STAR rated, missing eligibility for some rebate programs
  • 75 dB noise level is moderate to loud, worth considering in noise-sensitive environments
  • Requires 23.9 to 40 amp service, demanding upgraded electrical in some older homes

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors and homeowners replacing failed systems in established homes where cooling and heating both matter. This system especially suits budget-conscious buyers in zones 4-6 who value heating efficiency more than premium cooling performance.

Consider Alternatives If

Skip this if you need ultra-quiet operation, qualify for ENERGY STAR rebates, or live in hot climates where variable-capacity cooling would deliver faster payback.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

This system requires standard residential HVAC installation with 3/8-inch liquid lines and 7/8-inch suction lines using sweat valve connections. The horizontal layout demands proper ductwork return paths and exhaust venting through plastic or PVC flue, common in modern homes. Multi-speed blower supports both upflow and horizontal airflow. Electrical demand runs between 23.9 and 40 amps at 115V single-phase, requiring a dedicated breaker and properly sized wiring.

Warranty & Reliability

Online Supply includes a 10-year parts warranty with online product registration, covering most compressor and furnace failures. This matches industry standard for mid-range systems and provides meaningful protection during the critical first decade. Warranty registration is required, so save documentation immediately after installation to avoid coverage gaps.

Specifications

SKULS38783830
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU42,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)75
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarNo
SEER1 (Efficiency)13
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeReciprocating
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Max Breaker Size40 amps
Min. Breaker Size23.9 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height21"
Width21.125"
Depth26"
ResourcesCHPF Installation Manual CHPF 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.
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorMulti Speed
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationHorizontal
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesSingle
Fuel TypeGas
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/8"
Length30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 13 SEER good enough for hot climates? +
13 SEER provides solid baseline efficiency but isn't ideal for climates requiring 300-plus cooling hours annually. In zone 3 or hotter, 14-16 SEER variable-capacity units deliver faster payback. For moderate climates, 13 SEER justifies the lower upfront cost and meets most utility rebate thresholds.
Can this horizontal unit fit in a standard attic? +
Yes, the 21-inch height, 21.125-inch width, and 26-inch depth fit most attic joists with proper support framing. Ensure adequate return ductwork clearance behind the unit and verify that your ductwork can handle the 1600 CFM maximum airflow.
Why single-stage compressor instead of variable speed? +
Single-stage reduces initial cost and simplifies maintenance, but it cycles on and off rather than modulating. You'll see higher efficiency and comfort with variable capacity, but this system keeps costs down for budget-conscious buyers and works fine in moderate climates.
How does 96% AFUE compare to older furnaces? +
Most units replaced were 80-85% AFUE, so 96% cuts heating fuel use by roughly 12-16 percent on identical thermostat settings. Over 15-20 years, that translates to $2,000 to $4,000 in saved gas depending on your region and usage patterns.
Does this system qualify for tax credits or rebates? +
Not for federal ENERGY STAR credits, since it lacks that certification. Check your local utility company, as some offer rebates for 96% AFUE furnaces or 13+ SEER cooling regardless of ENERGY STAR status. Rebates vary widely by region.

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