3 Ton 15 SEER 80% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This Goodman system is ideal for homeowners replacing older furnace-AC combos who want reliable performance without premium pricing. The 80% AFUE and 15 SEER rating deliver solid efficiency gains for moderate climates, and the horizontal configuration works well in attics or basements with space constraints.

Review

Goodman's CHPF3636B6 is a competent mid-range solution for contractors and homeowners seeking a complete 3-ton heating and cooling package without the premium price tag. At $1998, this horizontal system delivers the basics well, combining an 80% AFUE furnace with a 15 SEER air conditioner. It's positioned squarely in the budget segment, competing against other entry-level combos rather than high-efficiency alternatives. The Energy Star certification and two-stage components signal that Goodman prioritized reliable performance over cutting-edge technology.

Performance specs reveal a competent, conventional system. The 60,000 BTU furnace with two-stage burners modulates heat output for smoother temperature control, while the 36,000 BTU cooling capacity handles 3-ton loads adequately. The variable-speed blower motor, capable of 1600 CFM maximum, adjusts fan speed for comfort without constant cycling. The 80% AFUE means roughly 80 cents of every heating dollar converts to warmth, versus 95 cents in high-efficiency units. The 15 SEER rating qualifies as Energy Star, but modern systems often reach 18-20 SEER, translating to 20-30% better cooling efficiency.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Two-stage heating and cooling for better temperature control and lower short-cycle wear
Variable-speed blower motor maximizes comfort by running longer at lower speeds
80% AFUE furnace efficiency qualifies for Energy Star, reducing annual heating costs
Horizontal A-coil design suits tight installation spaces like attics
10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor

Cons

80% AFUE trails high-efficiency units at 95%+ by 15+ percentage points
15 SEER cooling lags modern 18-20 SEER systems by 20-30% efficiency
70.4 dBA noise level is moderate, not quietest in class
Scroll compressor is durable but less efficient than newer designs

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors and homeowners replacing 15-20 year old split systems in moderate climates where budget matters more than peak efficiency. Small businesses, rental properties, and homes with consistent 3-ton cooling loads benefit most from the straightforward two-stage design and easy horizontal installation.

Consider Alternatives If

Skip this if you live in extremely cold climates requiring 95%+ AFUE, need SEER ratings above 18, or plan to stay in the home for 15+ years and want maximum efficiency ROI.

3 Ton 15 SEER 80% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn

$1998

Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

The horizontal A-coil configuration simplifies installation in attics and low-clearance basements where vertical space is limited. Dimensions of 21.125" height, 17.5" width, and 26" depth offer a compact footprint. Metal flue requirements demand proper venting for propane or natural gas combustion. Electrical needs include 208-230V single-phase 60Hz service with a 21.8 to 35 amp breaker, standard for residential installations. Sweat-type valve connections require basic soldering skills or HVAC technician support.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts and labor warranty activates with online registration, covering manufacturing defects and component failures. This is competitive for budget-tier equipment but shorter than some premium brands offering 12-15 year coverage. Real-world reliability depends heavily on proper installation, annual maintenance, and honest registration completion. The warranty protects your investment but does not cover wear items like capacitors or normal refrigerant loss.

Specifications

SKU	CHPF3636B6
Brand/Manufacturer	Goodman
Cooling BTU	36,000
Heating BTU	60,000
Refrigerant	R410A or R22
Electrical	208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	70.4
Weight (in lbs)	50.000000
Feature	Spec
Safety Information	PROPOSITION 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 Number	204633301
Airflow Direction	Upflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Metal
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	80%
Blower Motor	Variable Speed
Maximum CFM	1600
Configuration	Horizontal
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Propane, Natural Gas
Height	21.125"
Width	17.5"
Depth	26"
Resources	CHPF Installation Manual CHPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
Energy Star	Yes
SEER1 (Efficiency)	16
Condenser Stages	Two Stage
Compressor Type	Scroll
Liquid Valve Size	3/8"
Suction Valve Size	3/4"
Max Breaker Size	35 amps
Min. Breaker Size	21.8 amps
Tonnage	3 Ton
Valve Type	Sweat
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	7/8"
Style	A-Coil

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the actual difference between 80% AFUE and 95% AFUE? +

80% AFUE furnaces lose 20% of fuel energy through the flue, while 95% AFUE units waste only 5%. Over 20 heating seasons, upgrading to 95% AFUE saves roughly $3000-5000 in gas costs depending on climate and usage. This unit targets budget-conscious buyers willing to sacrifice long-term savings for lower upfront cost.

Is this system right for a cold Minnesota winter? +

It will heat your home, but 80% AFUE leaves money on the table in harsh climates. Minnesota winters demand 12,000+ heating degree days annually. A 95% AFUE system would reduce heating bills noticeably. Consider this unit best for moderate climates, not extreme cold regions.

Does the two-stage cooling actually matter? +

Yes. Two-stage compressors run at 60% capacity most of the time, cycling to full 100% capacity only on hot days. This reduces short-cycling, lowers electricity use by 10-15%, and improves dehumidification. Single-stage units run all-or-nothing, making them less efficient and less comfortable.

How does 15 SEER compare to newer systems? +

15 SEER is solid but not cutting-edge. Modern budget systems hit 16-18 SEER, while premium units reach 20-22 SEER. The difference means 15-30% higher cooling costs over 15 years. At $1998, you're trading long-term efficiency for low purchase price.

What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +

Parts and labor defects including compressor, coil, furnace heat exchanger, and blower motor failures. Does not cover refrigerant loss, improper installation, or maintenance neglect. Registration is required within 30 days of purchase to activate full coverage.

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