Independent Review · Updated June 2026

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

Budget-friendly 3-ton system with solid 96% AFUE and two-stage efficiency

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 - Horizontal
Current Price
$2755
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system excels for budget-conscious contractors and homeowners upgrading older equipment in moderate climates. The 96% AFUE furnace and two-stage condenser deliver genuine efficiency gains without premium pricing, making it ideal for straightforward replacements where cost matters.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton horizontal furnace and air conditioner system lands squarely in the practical middle ground of the market. At $2755, it targets contractors and homeowners tired of paying premium prices for incremental gains. This isn't exotic equipment, but it's honest equipment that does what it claims without unnecessary complexity or feature bloat.

The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU heating output at 96% AFUE, meaningfully better than standard 80-90% units still in the field. Cooling capacity reaches 35,000 BTU with a two-stage condenser that ramps capacity based on demand. The variable-speed ECM blower motor manages 1200 CFM maximum airflow while maintaining flexibility during part-load operation, stretching efficiency in milder weather.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs compared to 80-90% equipment
  • Two-stage condenser and scroll compressor provide variable cooling capacity for part-load efficiency
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor delivers precise airflow control and quieter operation
  • PVC exhaust flue compatibility simplifies installation and reduces material costs
  • 10-year warranty with online registration offers solid coverage for the price point

Cons

  • SEER rating listed as 18 appears inflated or inconsistent with typical 16 SEER positioning
  • 71 dB noise level is moderately loud and may be noticeable in quiet spaces
  • Horizontal configuration limits placement flexibility compared to upflow-only units

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors handling volume replacements and homeowners in mixed climates who prioritize upfront savings and reliable performance. This system rewards straightforward installations where ductwork is already compatible and simplicity beats cutting-edge features.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in hot climates seeking maximum cooling efficiency or those building new homes with strict noise requirements should evaluate higher SEER alternatives.

3 Ton 16 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
$2755
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Horizontal configuration suits attic or closet placement in retrofit applications. PVC exhaust flue requirement simplifies venting compared to metal alternatives and reduces material costs. Electrical requirements are modest, 208/230V single-phase at 21.3 to 35 amps. Standard sweat connections and 50 feet of suction line insulation accommodate typical residential runs without special fabrication.

Warranty & Reliability

Ten-year parts coverage applies with online registration, a reasonable commitment for equipment in this price tier. Coverage extends to the scroll compressor and evaporator coil, protecting the costliest failure points. This warranty matches contractor expectations for mid-range systems but trails premium brands offering 10-12 year terms.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU35,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)71
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
AHRI Certificate Number7368834
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesTwo Stage Condenser
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
ConfigurationHorizontal
Energy StarYes
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Height21"
Width21.125"
Depth26"
ResourcesCHPF Installation Manual CHPF 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.
SEER1 (Efficiency)18
Condenser StagesTwo Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size3/4"
Max Breaker Size35 amps
Min. Breaker Size21.3 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is SEER listed as 18 when the product is marketed as 16 SEER? +
The spec sheet shows 18, likely reflecting SEER2 or a rating variance across regional testing. Confirm the actual SEER rating with your supplier documentation before purchasing, as marketing typically emphasizes the lower figure when discrepancies exist.
Can this horizontal unit fit in a standard attic space? +
Dimensions are 21 by 21.125 by 26 inches, fitting most residential attics with 24-inch joist spacing. Verify clearance around ductwork connections and ensure return airflow access. Horizontal placement requires proper condensate drainage sloped toward exit.
How much do energy costs drop with 96% AFUE versus a 90% furnace? +
Six percentage points translates to roughly 6% heating cost reduction annually. On a $1200 annual heating bill, expect $70-80 savings. Returns compound over 15-20 years, offsetting the modest upfront premium over base-efficiency units.
Is this system compatible with existing ductwork from a 2.5-ton unit? +
The 3-ton rating and 1200 CFM maximum slightly exceed 2.5-ton ductwork capacity. Request a Manual J load calculation to confirm adequacy. Undersized ducts reduce efficiency gains, so budget for duct evaluation or minor upgrades.
Does the 10-year warranty cover labor or only parts? +
Goodman's standard terms cover parts only. Labor costs fall on homeowners or contractors. Extended service plans through retailers sometimes add labor coverage for an additional fee.

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