Review
Goodman's 3-ton combo system addresses a real market need: reliable heating and cooling at accessible pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace paired with an 18 SEER2 condenser puts this unit firmly in the efficiency tier that justifies replacement costs through utility savings. Downflow configuration works for basements and crawlspaces, making this adaptable to various home layouts. At under $90 before installation, Goodman targets contractors and homeowners tired of entry-level equipment that costs nearly as much but delivers 10+ year performance.
Performance metrics tell the real story here. The furnace delivers 100,000 BTU of heating output with 96% efficiency, meaning 96,000 BTU reaches your home versus only 64,000 with an 80% AFUE unit. Cooling capacity sits at 35,000 BTU with an 18 SEER2 rating, translating to about 1.5 watts of input per watt of cooling output. Variable-speed ECM blower and two-stage burner operation reduce runtime by 30 to 40 percent compared to single-stage equipment. The scroll compressor handles R410A refrigerant and operates at 71 dB, comparable to window air conditioning units.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means minimal heat loss, translating to real savings on natural gas bills
- 18 SEER2 cooling rating beats standard 13-14 SEER equipment by 25 to 38 percent
- Two-stage compressor and two-stage burner modulate output for quieter operation and better temperature control
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor maximizes comfort while reducing runtime electricity consumption
- 100,000 BTU heating output handles most residential loads without oversizing issues
Cons
- 71 dB noise level is higher than premium competitors, noticeable during compressor operation
- 5-ton cooling capacity limits this to homes under 2,500 square feet without zoning concerns
- 10-year warranty requires online registration, which some contractors find cumbersome
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners with existing ductwork seeking a budget-conscious replacement for 15+ year old systems, especially those in cold climates where heating dominates utility bills. This system works well for mid-range homes where energy efficiency matters but premium brands exceed budget.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone prioritizing whisper-quiet operation or needing cooling capacity above 5 tons should explore alternatives.
Installation
This downflow unit fits standard basement or utility closet locations with 30-inch height and 21-inch square footprint. Requires 115V single-phase 60Hz power with a 21.9 to 35-amp breaker. Plastic or PVC exhaust flue compatibility simplifies venting compared to older steel exhaust systems. Most HVAC contractors complete installation in 4 to 6 hours with existing ductwork, assuming no major modifications.
Warranty & Reliability
Ten-year parts warranty covers compressor, heat exchanger, and coil defects when you register online within 30 days of installation. Labor is not covered, so budget $500 to $1,200 for service calls beyond year one. Compare this to competitors offering limited first-year coverage. Ten years is solid for this price range.
Specifications
| SKU | CAPF4961C6 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 35,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A or R22 |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 71 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 46.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| 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 |
| Tonnage | 5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| 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. |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368844 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
Frequently Asked Questions
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