Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

High-efficiency dual-fuel system with 96% AFUE and strong cooling capacity

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This 3.5-ton Goodman system is ideal for homeowners replacing older equipment or building new in moderate climates. The 96% AFUE furnace and 16 SEER2 air conditioner deliver solid energy savings, while the two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower provide comfort and efficiency without premium pricing.

Review

The Goodman 3.5-ton gas furnace and air conditioner system represents mainstream residential HVAC, designed for contractors and homeowners seeking dependable performance without cutting-edge technology. Operating on propane or natural gas, this horizontal A-coil configuration fits upflow installations common in basement or utility closets. The unit strikes a practical balance between efficiency, affordability, and installation flexibility, making it a popular choice for replacement projects and new builds across North America.

Performance data shows a 96% AFUE furnace generating 100,000 BTU of heat with a two-stage burner that modulates between high and low fire, reducing energy waste during mild weather. The 3.5-ton air conditioner delivers 34,800 BTU cooling capacity with a 16 SEER2 rating, earning Energy Star certification. The variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts from 0 to 2,000 CFM, matching airflow to demand rather than running at fixed speed like older models. Combined, these features reduce operating costs while improving year-round comfort.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs compared to 80-90% single-stage units
  • 16 SEER2 air conditioner rating qualifies as Energy Star, delivering 34,800 BTU cooling capacity
  • Two-stage burner system adjusts heating output to match demand, improving comfort and reducing cycles
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor optimizes airflow from 0 to 2,000 CFM based on system needs
  • Lifetime heat exchanger warranty plus 10-year parts coverage with online registration provides excellent protection
  • Scroll compressor design is proven reliable in residential applications with lower noise operation

Cons

  • Single-stage air conditioner limits efficiency gains in extreme heat, no modulating capacity like higher-tier models
  • 73.5 dBA noise level is audible during operation, louder than some competing variable-speed systems
  • Requires PVC exhaust flue, limiting installation flexibility in some retrofit applications with metal venting

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in mixed climates seeking solid efficiency gains without premium pricing, particularly those replacing 20+ year old equipment. Contractors building new residential construction who need reliable, code-approved equipment with good warranty support.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in extreme-heat climates wanting maximum cooling efficiency should consider dual-stage compressors, and those prioritizing whisper-quiet operation may find the 73.5 dBA level objectionable.

3 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fur
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Installation

Installation requires standard 115V, 1-phase 60 Hz power with a 30-amp maximum breaker (minimum 18.7 amps). Dimensions measure 34.5 inches high by 21 inches wide by 28.75 inches deep, fitting typical utility closets and basement locations. The unit uses 3/8-inch liquid lines and 7/8-inch suction lines with 3/4-inch insulation on suction side. PVC exhaust flue is mandatory. Most contractors familiar with Goodman equipment complete installation in 4 to 6 hours.

Warranty & Reliability

Coverage includes a lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger, protecting against corrosion and cracks indefinitely. Parts carry a 10-year warranty with online registration, covering compressor, blower motor, and controls. This dual-tier approach gives homeowners long-term protection on expensive components while keeping initial cost reasonable. Registration is simple and typically completed at installation.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU34,800
Heating BTU100,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
WarrantyLifetime Heat Exchanger and 10 Years Parts 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
Tonnage3.5 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 Number7368836
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2000
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between SEER and SEER2 ratings on this unit? +
This unit carries a 16 SEER2 rating, which reflects updated testing standards introduced in 2023 that account for real-world conditions more accurately. SEER2 ratings are typically 15-20% lower than the old SEER metric, so this 16 SEER2 unit is genuinely high-efficiency. It qualifies for Energy Star certification and most rebate programs.
Can this system work with my existing ductwork? +
The 2,000 CFM maximum airflow works with most residential ductwork, but proper sizing is critical. A contractor should calculate your home's static pressure and CFM requirements before installation. The variable-speed blower adapts to your existing system better than fixed-speed units, but undersized ducts will limit efficiency gains.
Is propane or natural gas better for this furnace? +
Both fuels work identically in this unit, so use whatever is available in your area. Propane costs more per BTU but offers higher energy density. The furnace's 96% AFUE efficiency applies to either fuel, so your choice depends purely on local supply and pricing.
How does this compare to higher-SEER systems? +
At 16 SEER2, this unit performs well for its price point. Higher-end systems reach 18-21 SEER2 with variable-speed compressors, but cost 40-60% more. This Goodman makes sense for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize reliability over maximum efficiency. Payback periods on premium units often exceed 10 years.
What does the lifetime heat exchanger warranty actually cover? +
It covers manufacturing defects, corrosion, and cracks in the heat exchanger at no cost, even after 10 years. Labor is typically not included, but replacement parts are free. This removes risk of a $1,500-$2,000 component failure years down the road.

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