Review
The Goodman 3-ton horizontal system occupies middle ground in the residential HVAC market, neither stripped-down nor premium. At this price point, contractors and homeowners are trading cutting-edge efficiency for proven, accessible technology. The SKU DSXC180361 has been in circulation long enough that parts availability is strong, and installation guides are mature. Goodman's reputation sits firmly on reliability and serviceability rather than innovation.
Performance specs show a 100,000 BTU furnace running at 80% AFUE with two-stage burner capability and 35,000 BTU cooling capacity paired to a 17 SEER air conditioner. The variable-speed blower motor maxes out at 2000 CFM, providing adequate airflow for 3-ton capacity. R410A refrigerant with 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction lines follow industry standard sizing. Two-stage compressor and condenser staging mean the system doesn't run full blast on mild days, improving comfort and reducing noise to 71 dB.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 17 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for ENERGY STAR certification, reducing utility bills
- Two-stage compressor and burner system improves comfort by modulating output, not just on/off cycling
- Variable-speed blower motor runs quieter at part load, averaging 71 dB during operation
- A-coil configuration works in upflow or horizontal applications, maximizing installation flexibility
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and compressor protection
- 100,000 BTU heating capacity handles moderate to larger homes without undersizing issues
- Scroll compressor design is proven reliable and field-serviceable by most contractors
Cons
- 80% AFUE is mid-range, not high-efficiency like 95% AFUE models, meaning higher heating costs long-term
- 17 SEER1 rating, not the newer SEER2 metric, making direct comparison to newer equipment difficult
- 71 dB noise level is noticeably louder than premium variable-capacity units in cooling mode
- Single-phase 208/230V electrical requirement limits compatibility with three-phase applications
- No modulating furnace option, only two-stage heating, so cycling occurs more frequently at mild temperatures
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors installing systems in single-family homes and small multifamily properties will appreciate the straightforward installation and broad voltage compatibility. Homeowners in temperate climates or those replacing failed equipment can recoup the modest upfront cost through energy savings within 5-7 years.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this system if you live in harsh winters and need 95%+ AFUE efficiency or if you're building a high-performance home requiring modulating furnace technology and SEER2 16+ cooling performance.
Installation
Installation is straightforward for experienced technicians. The horizontal A-coil design accepts both upflow and horizontal orientations, fitting tight attics or crawl spaces. Metal flue exhaust requirement is standard for gas furnaces. The unit weighs 228 pounds, requiring two people for safe placement. Electrical needs 208 or 230V single-phase power with 21.9 to 35-amp breaker sizing. Most installations complete in 4-6 hours for experienced crews.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year warranty covers parts and compressor when registered online, which is straightforward. This is industry-standard protection for mid-tier equipment. Online registration typically takes under five minutes and activates immediately. The warranty does not cover refrigerant loss due to leaks or user-caused damage, so proper installation and maintenance matter significantly.
Specifications
| SKU | DSXC180361 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 35,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 71 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 228.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Configuration | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Tonnage | 3 Ton |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Height | 38.25" |
| Width | 35.5" |
| Depth | 35.5" |
| Resources | Goodman Specifications Goodman Installation Manual 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. |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Metal |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 80% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 18 |
| Condenser Stages | Two Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 35 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 21.9 amps |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
Frequently Asked Questions
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