Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

High-efficiency Goodman system delivers 96% AFUE heating with solid cooling performance

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This horizontal Goodman system works best for contractors and homeowners upgrading attic or crawlspace installations where space is tight and efficiency matters. The 96% AFUE furnace with variable-speed blower and Energy Star certification delivers strong heating performance without excessive noise.

Review

Goodman's horizontal 3-ton system brings respectable efficiency to tight installation spaces. At 96% AFUE for heating and SEER16 for cooling, this unit targets contractors managing attic or crawlspace retrofits where vertical clearance is limited. The compact 21-inch height and horizontal configuration fit where traditional upflow units cannot. Goodman's reputation for straightforward service support and reasonable pricing makes this appealing to budget-conscious buyers who don't sacrifice efficiency.

The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU heating output with two-stage burner control and a variable-speed ECM blower reaching 1600 CFM maximum. Cooling capacity sits at 34,800 BTU through a single-stage scroll compressor using A-coil configuration. The 96% AFUE rating is excellent for gas furnaces, translating to measurable monthly utility savings. However, the single-stage condenser doesn't match the heating side's modulation capability, meaning the cooling system runs at full capacity until setpoint is reached rather than ramping gradually.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs by 10-15% versus standard 80% models
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts to actual demand, improving comfort and lowering electricity use
  • Two-stage burner modulates heating output for better temperature control in mild weather
  • PVC exhaust capability simplifies venting through modern plastic flue systems
  • SEER16 cooling efficiency on the air conditioner side meets Energy Star standards

Cons

  • 73.5 dB noise level is moderately loud, comparable to a dishwasher running
  • R410A or R22 refrigerant compatibility creates uncertainty about future refrigerant availability and cost
  • Single-stage condenser means cooling doesn't modulate like the heating side, running full power until temperature is reached

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing replacements in attic or horizontal spaces where a compact 21-inch height matters. Homeowners in moderate to cold climates who prioritize heating efficiency and can accept a 10-year warranty with online registration.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone seeking ultra-quiet operation should look elsewhere, as 73.5 dB is on the noisier side for residential equipment.

3 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
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Installation

Installation requires PVC or plastic exhaust venting, 208/230V single-phase power at 18.7 to 30 amps, and proper refrigerant lines with 3/4-inch suction insulation. The horizontal orientation demands level mounting in attics or crawlspaces. Included are 50 feet of liquid and suction lines, simplifying rough-in work. Most experienced HVAC technicians complete installation in four to six hours, though ductwork modifications may add time.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides a 10-year parts warranty upon online registration, a solid commitment for residential equipment. This covers compressor, furnace heat exchanger, and coil components. Registration is straightforward but required to activate full coverage. The 10-year term positions this above budget brands but below premium manufacturers offering 12-year terms.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU34,800
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73.5
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
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.
AHRI Certificate Number7368835
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationHorizontal
Flue LocationRight
Energy StarYes
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Height21"
Width21.125"
Depth26"
ResourcesCHPF Installation Manual CHPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
SEER1 (Efficiency)16
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Max Breaker Size30 amps
Min. Breaker Size18.7 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 96% AFUE actually mean for my heating bills? +
AFUE measures how much input fuel becomes usable heat. At 96%, only 4% is wasted, compared to 20% with an 80% unit. For a $1200 annual heating bill, upgrading from 80% to 96% saves roughly $240 yearly in fuel costs, payable within 8-10 years.
Can this fit my horizontal attic space? +
Yes. At 21 inches high, 26 inches deep, and 21.125 inches wide, it fits most attic joists and crawlspaces. Verify your actual clearance before ordering. You'll also need adequate space for refrigerant line routing and PVC exhaust venting.
How does SEER16 cooling compare to typical units? +
SEER16 indicates good cooling efficiency but isn't top-tier, comparable to many mid-range systems. The single-stage compressor performs well in consistent heat but doesn't modulate like variable-capacity units, making it less efficient during mild spring and fall days.
Should I choose this over a higher SEER option? +
If budget and horizontal fit are primary concerns, this system delivers honest efficiency at fair pricing. However, higher SEER models (18+) cost more upfront but recoup the difference over 12+ years in very hot climates, especially in the South.
What's covered under the 10-year warranty? +
Parts coverage includes compressor, furnace heat exchanger, and evaporator coil. Labor is typically not covered. Online registration is mandatory to activate it, so complete this immediately after installation.

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