Independent Review · Updated June 2026

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

High-efficiency dual-stage system with 96% AFUE and 18 SEER1 at entry-level pricing

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 - Horizontal
Current Price
$89
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This 3.5-ton horizontal system is ideal for contractors and homeowners upgrading older equipment in tight spaces where both cooling and heating matter equally. The combination of 96% AFUE heating and 18 SEER1 cooling efficiency makes it a genuine money-saver, especially in mixed climates where you'll use both functions year-round.

Review

This Goodman 3.5-ton horizontal system represents a practical middle ground for contractors and homeowners seeking genuine efficiency improvements without premium pricing. The combination of 80,000 BTU heating capacity and 35,000 BTU cooling output addresses mixed-climate applications effectively. Goodman's reputation for straightforward, durable equipment carries through here, backed by a 10-year warranty with online registration. The horizontal A-coil design specifically targets installations in attics, basements, and crawlspaces where vertical coils simply won't fit, making this particularly valuable for retrofit work in existing homes.

Performance metrics justify the efficiency claims. The 96% AFUE furnace rating means you're recovering nearly all combustion heat, translating to real savings on monthly gas bills. On the cooling side, 18 SEER1 and ENERGY STAR qualification open doors to utility rebates that can offset equipment cost. The two-stage compressor paired with a variable-speed ECM blower motor means the system runs at partial capacity during mild weather rather than cycling on and off constantly. This staged operation keeps noise down to 71 dB and extends component lifespan by reducing thermal stress. Scroll compressor design adds reliability compared to older reciprocating models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-85% models
  • 18 SEER1 cooling efficiency, plus ENERGY STAR certification, qualifies for most utility rebates
  • Two-stage compressor and variable-speed ECM blower motor deliver quiet operation at 71 dB
  • Horizontal A-coil configuration fits attics and crawlspaces where vertical units won't work
  • Two-stage burner adapts to heating demand, avoiding inefficient full-load cycling
  • Scroll compressor design is proven reliable with fewer moving parts than reciprocating alternatives

Cons

  • Price listing at $89 appears to be coil-only or incomplete system quote, not full installed cost
  • Specifications show conflicting tonnage (title says 3 ton, specs list 3.5 ton) creating confusion
  • PVC exhaust flue requirement limits installation options in some older homes with masonry chimneys
  • Requires proper refrigerant charging and line insulation (3/4 inch thickness specified) for warranty validity

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors replacing complete systems in homes where horizontal equipment installation is necessary, and homeowners in regions with significant heating and cooling seasons who want efficiency rebates. This unit appeals to budget-conscious buyers who won't sacrifice performance for price.

Consider Alternatives If

Those with tight electrical service (requires 21.3-35 amp breaker dedicated circuit) or homes unable to accommodate PVC exhaust venting should explore alternatives.

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

Installation

Installation requires standard 115V, 1-phase 60 Hz power with a 21.3-35 amp dedicated breaker. The unit weighs 30 pounds, manageable for positioning in tight spaces. Refrigerant lines use 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction connections with 3/4-inch insulation thickness mandatory for warranty. PVC exhaust venting is required, which simplifies ducting compared to masonry flue systems but eliminates that option for older homes. Proper evacuation and charging are critical for performance and warranty coverage.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts warranty activates with online registration, a standard industry practice that protects against defects in materials and workmanship. Coverage is limited to parts only, not labor or refrigerant. This duration is competitive for mid-range equipment. Keep records of installation and annual maintenance to validate warranty claims if issues arise.

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
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height21"
Width21.125"
Depth26"
ResourcesCHPF Installation Manual CHPF 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
ConfigurationHorizontal
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the actual tonnage, 3 ton or 3.5 ton? +
Specifications list 3.5 tons, though the product title says 3 ton. Verify with your supplier before ordering. The 35,000 BTU cooling capacity aligns with 3.5-ton equipment, so treat this system as 3.5 ton for load calculations and ductwork sizing.
Can I install this horizontally in my attic? +
Yes, that's the design intent. The horizontal A-coil configuration and downflow/horizontal airflow capability make it ideal for attic installation. Ensure adequate clearance around the unit (minimum 12 inches typically) and confirm your attic framing can support 30 pounds plus ductwork weight.
How much will this save me on heating and cooling costs? +
Compared to a standard 80% AFUE and 14 SEER system, expect 20% heating savings and 29% cooling savings based on efficiency ratings. Actual savings depend on your local energy costs, climate, usage patterns, and home insulation. Most homeowners see payback within 5-7 years.
Is this better than a single-stage system? +
Yes. Two-stage heating and cooling run at partial capacity during mild weather, improving comfort, reducing noise to 71 dB, and minimizing on-off cycling wear. Single-stage systems run at full power or nothing, wasting energy and creating temperature swings. The variable-speed blower adds another efficiency layer.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
Parts defects only, no labor or refrigerant. Online registration is required. Proper installation and annual maintenance must be documented. Pre-existing conditions and user damage are excluded.

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