Independent Review · Updated June 2026

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

96% AFUE furnace with 18 SEER2 cooling, Energy Star certified, two-stage efficiency

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
$89
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman combo system excels for contractors and homeowners seeking high-efficiency heating and cooling in moderate climates without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace paired with 18 SEER2 cooling delivers substantial energy savings, especially for properties replacing older split systems.

Review

Goodman's 3-ton downflow system represents a straightforward, efficiency-focused option for residential heating and cooling upgrades. This combined furnace and air conditioning package bundles two critical HVAC components into one integrated solution, targeting contractors and homeowners seeking solid performance without cutting-edge innovation. The system carries Energy Star certification and qualifies for manufacturer rebates in many regions, addressing budget constraints while maintaining respectable specifications across both heating and cooling functions.

The heating side delivers 80,000 BTU output at 96% AFUE efficiency using two-stage natural gas or propane burners. Cooling output reaches 35,000 BTU (inconsistent with tonnage claims) at 18 SEER2 with a scroll compressor and two-stage condenser. The variable-speed ECM blower modulates airflow between 0 and 1600 CFM, reducing energy consumption during partial-load operation. At 71 dB, it operates within acceptable residential noise parameters, though not whisper-quiet. Electrical requirements include 115V single-phase 60Hz service with breaker sizing between 21.3 and 35 amps.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency qualifies for utility rebates and reduces heating costs by 15-25% versus 80% units
  • 18 SEER2 cooling rating outperforms the standard 14 SEER2 baseline, saving approximately $200-300 annually on cooling
  • Two-stage compressor and burner system reduces short cycling, improving comfort and component lifespan
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor maximizes airflow up to 1600 CFM while minimizing electrical draw
  • Energy Star certified with 10-year warranty when registered, covering both heating and cooling components
  • PVC exhaust compatibility simplifies installation in modern code-compliant applications

Cons

  • Price point of $89 appears significantly undervalued compared to market rates, suggesting this may be incomplete pricing or promotional listing
  • 5-ton cooling capacity listed in specs conflicts with advertised 3-ton system, creating specification ambiguity
  • R410A or R22 refrigerant options indicate older inventory, as R410A is being phased toward lower GWP alternatives
  • 71 dB noise level is moderate, not ideal for noise-sensitive applications like bedroom installations

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 15+ year old furnace and AC systems, and HVAC contractors seeking reliable, rebate-eligible equipment for residential retrofit jobs. The high efficiency ratings appeal to budget-conscious buyers willing to invest modestly upfront for multi-year utility savings.

Consider Alternatives If

Properties requiring 4+ ton capacity or those in regions with aggressive R22 phase-out timelines should source newer refrigerant options. Buyers prioritizing quiet operation may find the 71 dB output problematic.

3 Ton 17 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
$89
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation requires 3/8-inch liquid lines and 7/8-inch suction lines with 3/4-inch insulation thickness extended to 50 feet maximum. The downflow configuration suits basement or attic placement with PVC venting approved for modern code applications. Sweat valve connections demand soldering expertise or professional HVAC installation. Ductwork sizing and refrigerant charge procedures require certified technician involvement to ensure optimal performance.

Warranty & Reliability

Online registration unlocks a 10-year warranty covering furnace and cooling components against manufacturing defects. This full-system protection provides meaningful coverage for homeowners, though registration is mandatory and exclusions apply to damage from improper installation or maintenance neglect. Goodman's warranty claims process is generally straightforward through authorized dealers.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU35,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)71
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Energy StarYes
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
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 Number7368843
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the listing show 5-ton cooling capacity when the product is marketed as 3-ton? +
This specification discrepancy is unusual and warrants clarification from the seller. The advertised 3-ton rating likely refers to cooling tonnage, but the spec sheet lists 5-ton, suggesting either a data entry error or component mismatch. Verify tonnage before purchase to ensure proper sizing for your application.
Can this system replace my old R22 furnace without modification? +
The R410A option makes this compatible with modern installations, though R22 refrigerant is being phased out. If your existing condenser uses R22, professional migration to R410A or newer fluid is necessary. Indoor furnace replacement alone doesn't require refrigerant changes if the outdoor unit remains compatible.
How much energy will I actually save with 96% AFUE heating? +
Upgrading from an 80% AFUE furnace saves approximately 16-20% on heating costs annually. For homes spending $1,500 yearly on heating, expect $240-300 in savings. Regional climate, thermostat setpoints, and insulation quality significantly impact actual performance, so individual results vary considerably.
Is 18 SEER2 cooling efficiency worth the cost difference over 14 SEER2 units? +
At current electricity rates, 18 SEER2 versus 14 SEER2 saves roughly $200-300 annually in cooling costs depending on regional rates and usage patterns. Payback typically occurs within 3-5 years, making it cost-effective for long-term homeowners in warm climates with substantial cooling loads.
Does online registration for the 10-year warranty require proof of professional installation? +
Most Goodman warranties require proof of professional installation and ongoing maintenance documentation. DIY installation typically voids coverage. Contact Online Supply or your local Goodman dealer to confirm specific registration requirements and warranty terms before proceeding.

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