Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 17 SEER 96% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

High-efficiency dual-stage system delivers 96% heating and 18 SEER cooling at mid-market price

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 17 SEER 96% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
Current Price
$3225
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system excels for homeowners replacing aging equipment who want proven efficiency without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace and 18 SEER1 air conditioner combination delivers measurable energy savings, particularly in mixed climates where heating and cooling demands are both significant.

Review

Goodman's CAPF4961D6 represents the brand's pragmatic approach to residential HVAC, combining proven component designs with solid efficiency ratings at an accessible price point. This downflow configuration serves replacement applications in homes where ductwork already runs vertically, common in basements and crawl spaces. The system pairs a furnace section with an air conditioning condenser, offering contractors and homeowners a complete heating and cooling solution in one package.

Performance numbers tell the story here. The furnace delivers 120,000 BTU output at 96% AFUE, placing it among the most efficient gas furnaces available without requiring condensing exhaust equipment complexity. The condenser produces 35,000 BTU cooling at 18 SEER1 efficiency, qualifying for Energy Star certification. Two-stage operation in both sections means the system modulates output rather than cycling on and off, reducing energy waste during mild weather when full capacity isn't needed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means lower heating bills compared to 80-90% systems, typically saving $200-400 annually
  • 18 SEER1 cooling rating qualifies for Energy Star and many utility rebates, reducing out-of-pocket costs
  • Two-stage operation on both furnace and condenser runs quietly at 71 dB in partial load conditions
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0-2000 CFM, reducing noise and improving comfort consistency
  • Scroll compressor is industry-standard for reliability with R410A or R22 refrigerant compatibility

Cons

  • 3 ton cooling capacity paired with 120,000 BTU heating creates sizing mismatch for homes needing equal capacity in both seasons
  • 71 dB noise level is moderate but not quiet, noticeable during operation unlike premium units rated 65-68 dB
  • Two-stage design doesn't optimize efficiency as well as three-stage or variable capacity systems in mild weather

Who Should Buy

Best For

This system fits homeowners in moderate climates upgrading from 10-15 year old equipment who want reliable, efficient performance without spending $5000+. Contractors appreciate Goodman's straightforward design and field serviceability for replacement jobs where the existing ductwork and electrical infrastructure are already in place.

Consider Alternatives If

Skip this if you need a true 3 ton matched system for cooling or live in extreme heat climates where oversizing the condenser matters, or if noise sensitivity is high since 71 dB is louder than premium alternatives.

3 Ton 17 SEER 96% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fur
$3225
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Downflow orientation fits basements and utility closets where return air comes from above and supply ducts run downward. The system requires 115V single-phase power with a 21.9-35 amp breaker, standard for most homes. PVC exhaust venting is simpler than older metal flue requirements. Sweat valve connections demand basic soldering skills or professional installation, adding labor costs for DIY attempts.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman includes 10 years full parts coverage with online registration, a respectable duration that signals manufacturer confidence. This doesn't cover labor or refrigerant, so budget $150-300 for service calls. Extended warranties are available separately if you want labor coverage beyond year one, important for older homes where technician availability matters.

Specifications

SKUCAPF4961D6
Brand/ManufacturerGoodman
Cooling BTU35,000
Heating BTU120,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)71
Weight (in lbs)50.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)18
Condenser StagesTwo Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Max Breaker Size35 amps
Min. Breaker Size21.9 amps
Tonnage5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height30"
Width24.5"
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 Number7368845
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2000
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this listed as both 3 ton and 5 ton? +
The specs show conflicting tonnage data. The 35,000 BTU cooling capacity equals 2.9 tons, supporting the 3 ton designation in the title. The 120,000 BTU heating equals 10 tons, though furnace tonnage isn't calculated the same way as air conditioning. Verify exact tonnage with your dealer before purchasing.
Can I install this myself if I'm handy? +
Mechanically yes, but legally problematic. Most jurisdictions require EPA-certified technicians to handle refrigerant lines due to Clean Air Act regulations. Improper charging wastes $500+ in efficiency gains. Hire a professional for refrigerant connections, though experienced DIYers handle ductwork and electrical.
How much will this save on energy bills compared to my 15-year-old system? +
Significant savings, typically 25-35% on heating costs. A 96% AFUE unit versus an older 80% furnace saves roughly $300 annually on heating in cold climates. Combined cooling efficiency improvements add another $200-300 savings depending on usage patterns and local energy costs.
How does the 18 SEER1 rating compare to competitors at this price? +
Competitive but not cutting-edge. Lennox and Carrier offer 18-20 SEER2 systems at similar prices. Goodman's 18 SEER1 translates roughly to 16.5 SEER2 under new testing standards, making it solid mid-tier rather than premium. The tradeoff is lower cost and simpler serviceability.
Is the 10-year warranty enough protection? +
Adequate for most homeowners but not exceptional. Higher-end brands offer 10-year parts plus additional compressor coverage. Register online immediately after installation to activate coverage. Consider extended labor warranties if your home has limited HVAC technician access.

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