Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 14 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

High-efficiency gas furnace and AC combo with modulating heat and SEER 16 cooling

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 14 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
$643
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system is ideal for homeowners replacing aging equipment who want solid efficiency gains without premium pricing. The 97% AFUE furnace with modulating burners and variable-speed blower delivers comfort and lower utility bills, while the 16 SEER condenser handles cooling efficiently in moderate climates.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton system combines a 97% AFUE furnace with an Energy Star qualified 16 SEER air conditioner in a compact A-coil configuration. Priced at $643, it occupies the practical middle ground between budget equipment and high-efficiency premium models. The 80,000 BTU furnace uses modulating burners to match heating demand, while the 34,800 BTU condenser handles cooling across 3-ton residential applications. This Upflow/Horizontal orientation makes it suitable for attics and basements where space constraints eliminate larger equipment.

Performance specs show the modulating furnace adjusts input intelligently rather than cycling on-off, reducing temperature swings and overshooting. The variable-speed ECM blower runs at 1200 CFM maximum but ramps down during partial-load conditions, conserving electricity. The 16 SEER condenser with scroll compressor targets homes in moderate climates where cooling demands rarely peak. At 73.5 dB, noise levels are acceptable but slightly higher than variable-capacity competitors, noticeable when condenser cycles on from adjacent rooms.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace with modulating burners reduces energy waste compared to single-stage competitors
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor improves comfort and efficiency by adjusting airflow to actual heating/cooling demand
  • 16 SEER condenser exceeds minimum SEER2 standards for current efficiency regulations
  • Compact 34.5 inch height fits tight attic and basement spaces where full-size units won't
  • Scroll compressor delivers reliable operation with low maintenance over 10-year warranty period

Cons

  • 73.5 dB noise level runs slightly louder than high-end variable-capacity models, noticeable from adjacent rooms
  • Single-stage condenser cannot modulate cooling like premium systems, less efficient on mild days
  • R410A refrigerant support only, no backwards compatibility with older R22 systems despite spec listing

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors and homeowners upgrading from 13-14 SEER systems who need reliable, efficient equipment at under $650. This works especially well for moderate climates where single-stage cooling performs adequately and the high-efficiency furnace maximizes winter savings.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in extreme climates who need two-stage cooling, those requiring premium quietness below 70 dB, or anyone wanting the latest communicating thermostats and variable refrigerant flow technology.

3 Ton 14 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
$643
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation requires 115V single-phase power with 18.7 to 30-amp breaker sizing, standard in residential electrical service. Suction and liquid refrigerant lines use 7/8 inch and 3/8 inch connections respectively, with 3/4 inch insulation on suction lines included. Exhaust flue must be PVC or plastic, not metal ductwork. Goodman provides detailed installation manuals and the AHRI certificate number 7424265 ensures contractor and equipment compatibility verification.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year warranty requires online registration to activate full coverage, protecting against manufacturing defects in compressor, heat exchanger, and components. This aligns with industry standards for mid-tier equipment and provides confidence for systems installed by qualified technicians. Registration should be completed within 30 days of purchase to avoid claims denial.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU34,800
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73.5
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 Size30 amps
Min. Breaker Size18.7 amps
Tonnage3 Ton
Height34.5"
Width17.5"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Installations 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 Number7424265
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this spec sheet show both R410A and R22 refrigerant compatibility? +
The listing contains conflicting information. This unit ships factory-charged with R410A only and cannot accept R22. The dual-refrigerant note may reflect legacy documentation before refrigerant phaseout. Always verify with your distributor before ordering if retrofitting an R22-only system.
Can this upflow furnace fit in a standard attic space with 36 inches of clearance? +
At 34.5 inches tall and 28.75 inches deep, the unit fits tight attic installations but requires careful measurement. Ensure 6 inches minimum clearance on all sides for airflow and maintenance access. Measure from joists and consider ductwork routing before installation.
How does the 97% AFUE compare to older furnaces on monthly heating bills? +
A 97% AFUE furnace converts 97 cents of fuel to usable heat versus 80-85% on 15-year-old units. Replacing a 78% AFUE furnace typically saves $15-25 monthly in winter heating, recovering equipment cost in 3-5 years depending on usage and gas rates.
Is 16 SEER sufficient or should I upgrade to 17+ SEER models? +
16 SEER meets current federal minimums and delivers solid energy savings. Upgrading to 17-18 SEER adds $200-400 cost with 5-8% additional efficiency gains, making payback 8-12 years in moderate climates. Viable only if utility rates are high or cooling runtime exceeds 1500 hours annually.
Does registration warranty coverage apply if a contractor installs this system? +
Yes, the 10-year warranty covers equipment defects regardless of installer type. However, proper installation by EPA-certified technicians is required. Homeowner negligence, improper refrigerant charging, or electrical issues void coverage, so hire experienced HVAC contractors for installation.

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