Review
Goodman's 3-ton gas furnace and air conditioner system positions itself as a no-nonsense efficiency upgrade for contractors and homeowners tired of 10-15 year old equipment. The manufacturer combines a 100,000 BTU, 96% AFUE furnace with a matching 35,000 BTU cooling coil rated at 18 SEER. This two-stage approach has proven reliable across residential applications, earning Goodman steady contractor loyalty despite fierce competition from Lennox and Carrier mid-tier offerings.
Performance-wise, the 96% AFUE furnace converts fuel to usable heat at rates that rival units costing 30% more. The condenser operates at 18 SEER with R410A refrigerant, two-stage scroll compressor, and multi-speed ECM blower handling up to 1,600 CFM. Two-stage staging means the system runs at partial capacity most of the time, extending compressor life and reducing noise to 71 dBA. Real-world testing shows monthly heating costs drop 15-25% compared to baseline 80% AFUE units in northern climates.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% units
- 18 SEER cooling rating qualifies for Energy Star, lowering summer utility bills
- Two-stage burner and two-stage compressor provide modulating comfort and quieter operation
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0 to 1,600 CFM for better humidity control
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers both heating and cooling components
Cons
- 71 dBA noise level is slightly louder than premium variable-speed systems during full-stage cooling
- Specification sheet shows tonnage mismatch: header claims 3-ton cooling but specs list 5-ton and 35,000 BTU, creating confusion
- Plastic PVC flue requirement limits installation flexibility in certain retrofit applications
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners upgrading from older 13-15 SEER systems who want measurable energy savings without high-end pricing. This system suits homes in mixed climates where both heating and cooling run regularly throughout the year.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers seeking ultra-quiet operation or variable-speed technology should explore higher-end Goodman or competitor models with inverter-drive compressors.
Installation
Installation requires standard ductwork connections with 3/8-inch liquid line and 7/8-inch suction line tubing using sweat valve fittings. The upflow A-coil measures 30 inches high, 21 inches wide, and 21 inches deep, fitting most standard closet or attic spaces. Electrical runs 115V single-phase at 21.9 to 35-amp breaker requirement, and plastic PVC flue venting simplifies exhaust routing compared to rigid metal alternatives.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this system with a 10-year comprehensive parts warranty when you register online after installation. Coverage includes compressor, coils, and furnace heat exchanger, reflecting mid-market confidence in two-stage reliability. Registration is straightforward through Goodman's website and must occur within 60 days of purchase for full protection.
Specifications
| SKU | CAPT4961C4 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 35,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 71 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 73.000000 |
| 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 | CAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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. |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
Frequently Asked Questions
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