Review
The Goodman CAPF4961C6 represents solid middle-market positioning in the HVAC space. This 3-ton upflow system pairs an 80,000 BTU furnace with a matching 36,000 BTU air conditioner, making it suitable for typical single-family homes in moderate climates. Goodman's reputation centers on no-frills reliability, and this unit delivers that promise without the premium pricing of Carrier or Lennox.
Performance metrics justify the efficiency claims. The furnace's 96% AFUE means nearly all fuel converts to heat, a meaningful jump from 80-85% baseline units. On the cooling side, 16 SEER rating indicates solid efficiency, though not quite matching premium competitors. Two-stage operation on both sides allows the system to modulate capacity, running at lower speeds during mild weather when full output isn't needed. The variable-speed ECM blower motor reaches 1600 CFM maximum but reduces speed automatically, maintaining comfort while cutting runtime.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency cuts heating costs significantly compared to standard 80-85% units
- 16 SEER cooling rating qualifies for ENERGY STAR, delivering strong summer performance
- Two-stage burner and two-stage condenser allow modulated operation, reducing energy waste and noise
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor automatically adjusts CFM up to 1600, improving comfort and efficiency
- PVC exhaust compatibility simplifies installation and venting compared to older metal flue systems
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid peace of mind at this price point
Cons
- Price listed as $89 appears incomplete or refers to partial unit cost, not full system installation
- 70.4 dB noise level at full capacity may be noticeable in open living spaces
- Two-stage design means single-stage cycling during light load conditions, less efficient than modulating units
Who Should Buy
Best For
This system fits homeowners in moderate climates who run both heating and cooling regularly and want measurable efficiency gains without spending on premium brands. Contractors installing upflow systems in residential basements or attics will appreciate the straightforward PVC venting and ECM blower reliability.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this unit if you need downflow-only capability or require modulating (variable capacity) heating, or if you're in extreme climates where three-ton capacity feels undersized for your home.
Installation
Installation hinges on upflow orientation and PVC venting. The unit measures 30 inches tall by 21 inches wide and deep, fitting standard basement or attic closets. Plastic flue exhaust simplifies routing compared to metal ductwork. Electrical requirements are 208/230V single-phase 60Hz with 21.8 to 35 amp breaker sizing. Most installers should handle this in 4-6 hours assuming ducts and refrigerant lines are already in place.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this system with a full 10-year parts warranty when registered online, which is industry-standard. This covers compressor, heat exchanger, and major components. Real-world value depends on proper maintenance, annual tune-ups, and clean filters. The warranty doesn't cover labor, so expect contractor service calls to run $150-300 beyond parts costs.
Specifications
| SKU | CAPF4961C6 |
| 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) | 46.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368835 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 21" |
| 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. |
| 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 | 5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
Frequently Asked Questions
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