Review
The Goodman CAPF3743D6 occupies the practical middle ground between budget basement models and premium brand-name systems. At $2,575, it targets homeowners who understand efficiency matters but won't pay $4,000+ for marginal gains. This 3-ton upflow unit combines a 3.5-ton cooling capacity with 80,000 BTU heating in a compact 30-inch height, making it suitable for tight basement or closet installations common in retrofit projects.
Efficiency specs tell a clear story here. The 80% AFUE furnace consumes noticeably more gas than modern 95% AFUE units, translating to roughly $200-300 extra annual heating costs in cold climates. Cooling efficiency at 16 SEER is respectable and qualifies for ENERGY STAR certification. The two-stage burner and two-stage condenser allow the system to operate at part-load capacity, improving humidity control and reducing temperature swings compared to single-stage competitors. Maximum airflow of 2,000 CFM suits the 3-ton cooling capacity well.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 16 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for ENERGY STAR, reducing summer energy bills by 20-30% compared to 13 SEER units
- Two-stage burner and two-stage condenser allow the system to modulate capacity, improving comfort and reducing short-cycling
- Variable speed blower motor optimizes airflow across all seasons, typically delivering 1,200-2,000 CFM depending on demand
- 80,000 BTU heating capacity handles most 2,000-2,500 sq ft homes adequately in cold climates
- 10-year parts warranty with online registration provides solid protection at this price point
Cons
- 80% AFUE is outdated by 2024 standards; modern furnaces achieve 95%+ AFUE, meaning 15% more heating energy waste
- Propane efficiency not separately rated, so propane users won't see the 80% AFUE claim apply equally
- 70.4 dB noise level is moderately loud for a residential unit, especially during two-stage operation
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 10+ year old systems and prioritizing immediate cost savings over long-term utility reductions. This works well for rental properties, vacation homes, or primary residences where the $500-800 monthly heating bill is acceptable.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in HVAC-critical climates (very cold winters or hot summers) should consider 95% AFUE furnaces and 18+ SEER cooling. Contractors charging premium installation fees should recommend higher-efficiency alternatives to justify labor costs.
Installation
Installation requires 208/230V single-phase power with 21.8-35 amp breaker sizing, straightforward for most electricians. Metal exhaust flue is mandatory for the gas burner. The upflow configuration works for basement or utility closet placement. Refrigerant connections use standard 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines. Variable-speed blower integration adds minor complexity compared to single-speed models but remains within standard contractor scope.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this unit with a 10-year parts warranty activated through online registration. This is competitive for the price tier but trails high-end brands offering 10-year compressor plus 10-year parts. Coverage includes the scroll compressor and major components. Evaporator coil has separate warranty terms documented in Goodman's coil warranty documentation. Homeowners must keep proof of installation and maintain records.
Specifications
| SKU | CAPF3743D6 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| 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) | 42.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 204633307 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Metal |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 80% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | CAPF Installation Manual CAPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents. |
| 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. |
| 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 | 3.5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
Frequently Asked Questions
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