Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 16 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

High-efficiency 3-ton combo system delivers 96% heating and 16 SEER cooling reliability

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 16 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
Current Price
$0
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system is ideal for homeowners replacing older split systems in moderate climates seeking strong efficiency without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace paired with a 16 SEER condenser creates a balanced, cost-effective upgrade that handles both heating and cooling responsibly.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton split system combines a gas furnace and air conditioner in a single matched package designed for downflow or horizontal installation. This unit sits firmly in the mid-tier efficiency market, positioned between basic 13 SEER systems and premium modulating equipment. For contractors and homeowners alike, it represents the sweet spot where meaningful efficiency gains meet reasonable cost expectations and proven reliability.

Heating output reaches 80,000 BTU through a two-stage burner, while cooling delivers 34,800 BTU at 16 SEER efficiency. The 96% AFUE rating on the furnace is genuinely impressive for non-condensing equipment. The variable-speed ECM blower motor supports up to 1600 CFM, allowing the system to modulate airflow rather than running at constant speed. Electrical requirements are straightforward, needing only 115V single-phase 60 Hz service with a 30-amp maximum breaker.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% units
  • 16 SEER cooling rating qualifies for Energy Star certification and federal rebates
  • Two-stage burner adjusts heating output, improving comfort and reducing short cycling
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor optimizes airflow and reduces electricity consumption
  • Scroll compressor design is proven reliable in thousands of residential installations

Cons

  • Single-stage compressor limits cooling modulation in extreme heat conditions
  • 73.5 dB noise level is slightly louder than premium variable-capacity units
  • Tonnage mismatch in specs, system listed as both 3-ton and 5-ton, needs clarification before purchase

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in heating-dominant climates looking to replace 15-year-old furnace and AC units simultaneously will see payback within 5-7 years. Budget-conscious contractors serving residential retrofit markets appreciate the reliable Goodman platform and rebate eligibility.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in extreme climates needing variable-capacity compressors or anyone uncomfortable with the conflicting tonnage specifications should request clarification or consider alternatives.

3 Ton 16 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
$0
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

The A-coil style and 30-inch height accommodate most existing furnace cabinets. Suction and liquid lines use standard 7/8-inch and 3/8-inch connections with 3/4-inch insulation on the 50-foot suction line. Plastic PVC exhaust flue is required, which simplifies venting compared to metal exhaust systems. Downflow configuration works well in basements and attics, though upflow option is also available.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10 years of parts coverage with online registration, which is competitive for this equipment class. This protects against compressor failures and major component defects but excludes consumables and normal wear. Registration is mandatory, so keep documentation after installation. Extended warranties may be available through the distributor.

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
Tonnage5 Ton
Height30"
Width21"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPF Installation Manual CAPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil 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.
AHRI Certificate Number7368843
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between this system's 34,800 BTU cooling and standard 3-ton capacity? +
Standard 3-ton equals 36,000 BTU, so this unit runs slightly undersized, suggesting the 5-ton designation in specs may be incorrect. Request AHRI certificate 7368843 confirmation before purchase to verify actual cooling capacity and matched indoor/outdoor performance.
Can this unit run on both natural gas and propane? +
Yes, the furnace accepts both propane and natural gas through burner adjustment during installation. However, order the correct burner assembly for your fuel type. Field conversion is possible but requires technician expertise and parts replacement, not just adjustment.
How much will my heating bills drop compared to an 80% AFUE system? +
The 96% AFUE rating means 16% more heat output per dollar of fuel burned. On average, expect 12-18% annual heating cost reduction compared to 80% equipment, depending on climate zone and usage patterns. Your specific savings depend on local gas prices and winter temperature.
Should I pair this with a 16 SEER indoor coil or does it come as a complete system? +
Specs indicate this is the outdoor condenser unit only. You'll need a matching Goodman evaporator coil inside to achieve 16 SEER efficiency and maintain manufacturer warranties. Mixing brands voids AHRI certification and warranty coverage.
Does the 10-year warranty cover labor, or just parts? +
Goodman warranties cover parts only. Labor is your responsibility. Most contractors charge $150-300 per service call. Budget accordingly for any compressor failure during the warranty period.

Affiliate disclosure: IndustrialRank earns a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have independently reviewed.