Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 17 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

High-efficiency two-stage system with 96% AFUE and 18 SEER1 for reliable comfort

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 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman combo is ideal for homeowners upgrading older systems in moderate climates where two-stage efficiency matters. The 96% AFUE furnace and 18 SEER1 cooling coil deliver meaningful energy savings without premium pricing, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers who refuse to sacrifice performance.

Review

Goodman's two-stage furnace and air conditioner combo represents solid mid-market equipment for contractors and homeowners balancing efficiency with budget constraints. The 80,000 BTU heating capacity and 35,000 BTU cooling output address modest residential loads efficiently. Downflow configuration works well in homes with basement installations or compact mechanical spaces. The system carries Energy Star certification and an AHRI certificate number 7368843, confirming performance claims. Online Supply positions this as an accessible alternative to premium brands without cutting corners on core components.

Performance numbers tell a compelling story. The furnace delivers 96% AFUE, meaning only 4% of heating fuel gets wasted up the flue, standard for modern condensing units. On the cooling side, 18 SEER1 efficiency with a two-stage scroll compressor and dual-stage condenser provides responsive temperature control. The variable-speed ECM blower motor maximizes comfort by adjusting to actual heating or cooling demand rather than running full-speed constantly. Maximum airflow reaches 1,600 CFM, sufficient for proper air distribution in three-ton residential applications.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs compared to standard 80-85% units
  • 18 SEER1 cooling efficiency with two-stage compressor and condenser for smart load matching
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor optimizes airflow at 1,600 CFM maximum while reducing noise
  • Energy Star certified system qualifies for utility rebates in many regions
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor peace of mind
  • PVC exhaust compatibility simplifies venting and retrofit installations
  • Two-stage burner and compressor reduce on-off cycling for steadier temperatures

Cons

  • Spec sheet shows conflicting tonnage data, listing both 3-ton and 5-ton designations which creates confusion
  • 71 dB noise level is louder than premium variable-speed competitors, noticeable in quiet homes
  • R410A refrigerant phase-out means future servicing costs may increase over system lifespan

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in established neighborhoods upgrading 15-25 year old furnaces and air conditioners where moderate efficiency gains deliver real utility bill reductions. Contractors installing combo systems in mild to moderate climate zones where two-stage cycling justifies the equipment cost.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in extreme climates needing maximum efficiency, homes with tight attic spaces limiting condenser placement, or anyone uncomfortable with manufacturer tonnage specifications requiring clarification before purchase.

3 Ton 17 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
$0
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Installation

Downflow configuration requires basement or attic installation with horizontal ductwork connections. The unit weighs 30 pounds and measures 30 inches tall, 21 inches wide and deep, fitting standard mechanical closets. PVC exhaust venting simplifies installation compared to metal flue requirements on older equipment. Electrical service needs 208 or 230 volt, single-phase, 60 Hz with breaker capacity between 21.3 and 35 amps. Refrigerant lines require 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction sizing with standard 3/4 inch insulation thickness.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts and labor warranty activates through online registration, covering furnace heat exchanger, compressor, and condenser failures under normal use. This matches industry standard coverage but requires timely registration. Goodman includes a separate evaporator coil warranty. Coverage excludes refrigerant loss, maintenance neglect, and improper installation. Keep documentation accessible for claims.

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 Number7368843
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesTwo Stage Condenser
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Energy StarYes
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Height30"
Width21"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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
Tonnage5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this system qualify for energy rebates? +
Yes. Energy Star certification makes it eligible for utility rebates in most regions, often $200-500 combined. Check your local utility provider's efficiency program before purchase. Rebates offset roughly 10-15% of equipment cost in many cases, improving overall value proposition significantly.
Can this replace my old 3-ton system directly? +
Probably yes, but verify tonnage first. Specs show conflicting 3-ton and 5-ton designations, so request clarification from supplier. Assuming 3-ton cooling capacity, existing ductwork should work. Professional load calculation ensures proper sizing for your specific home and climate zone.
How much will this reduce my heating and cooling bills? +
Expected savings vary by climate and current equipment. Upgrading from 80% AFUE furnace saves roughly 16% on heating costs. From older air conditioners to 18 SEER1 saves 30-40% on cooling. Combined annual savings typically range $400-800 depending on utility rates and usage patterns in your region.
How does this compare to higher-priced Carrier or Lennox systems? +
Goodman delivers comparable efficiency at lower cost. Premium brands offer quieter operation and extended warranties. This unit reaches 96% AFUE and 18 SEER1 efficiently. If noise sensitivity or warranty length justifies $1,500-2,500 premium, upgrade accordingly. Otherwise, Goodman provides solid value.
Is the 10-year warranty comprehensive? +
Standard but not premium. Covers parts and labor, but requires registration and excludes refrigerant. Premium brands offer 10-15 year coverage without registration hassles. For budget buyers, this warranty adequately protects your investment if installation quality meets manufacturer specs.

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