Independent Review · Updated June 2026

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

High-efficiency dual-stage system at contractor-friendly pricing with strong warranties

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 - Upflow
Current Price
$736
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system suits contractors and homeowners replacing older units in mild to moderate climates who prioritize efficiency and upfront cost savings. The 96% AFUE furnace and 18 SEER2 condenser deliver measurable energy savings without premium pricing.

Review

The Goodman 3.5-ton system occupies a practical middle ground in the HVAC market, balancing efficiency gains against reasonable pricing. Online Supply positions this unit as a direct competitor to mid-range equipment from Lennox and Carrier, offering contractors and homeowners a viable path forward without premium brand costs. At 736 dollars, this represents solid value for a matched furnace-condenser pair rather than purchasing components separately.

Performance specs reveal genuine two-stage capability across both heating and cooling. The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU output with 96% AFUE, meaning 96 cents of every fuel dollar converts to heat, versus 80-85 cents in single-stage systems. The condenser produces 35,000 BTU cooling at 18 SEER2 efficiency with scroll compressor technology and variable-speed ECM blower. The 71 dB noise level rates acceptable for residential placement, though not class-leading.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating fuel consumption by 15-20% versus 80% AFUE equipment
  • 18 SEER2 condenser with two-stage compressor and variable-speed ECM blower cuts cooling costs significantly
  • Scroll compressor design runs quieter at 71 dB and handles partial-load operation efficiently
  • Two-stage burner adapts heating output to actual demand, improving comfort and efficiency
  • PVC/plastic flue compatibility simplifies installation and retrofit projects versus metal ductwork
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage at this price point

Cons

  • Title lists 17 SEER but specs show 18 SEER2, creating confusion about actual cooling performance rating
  • 3.5-ton unit may oversized for homes previously served by 3-ton systems, cycling short on mild days
  • R410A refrigerant phaseout means future service costs may rise for repairs after warranty expires
  • 115V single-phase electrical requirement limits installation flexibility on three-phase commercial applications

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors replacing worn furnace-condenser pairs in residential homes and homeowners in mild to moderate climates seeking rapid ROI through reduced energy bills. This system makes sense for properties where upfront cost matters and efficiency gains will recover investment within 5-7 years.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in very cold climates needing auxiliary heat or those requiring three-phase power should explore alternatives better suited to extreme conditions and commercial electrical setups.

3 Ton 17 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
$736
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

This upflow unit accepts plastic PVC flue venting, reducing installation labor versus traditional metal ductwork. The variable-speed ECM blower simplifies ductwork requirements since it adapts airflow automatically to system demand. Electrical needs 115V single-phase power with 21.3 to 35-amp breaker sizing, standard for most residential panels. Connection points use sweat valves with 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction lines, requiring competent brazing skills.

Warranty & Reliability

Ten-year parts warranty applies with online registration, covering compressor, heat exchanger, and refrigerant lines. This warranty matches mid-tier Goodman coverage but falls short of extended 10-year compressor warranties some competitors offer. Registration is straightforward and essential, as coverage does not transfer between owners.

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 FeaturesTwo Stage Condenser
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
Height30"
Width21"
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 Number7368835
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Flue LocationRight
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 product title say 17 SEER when specs list 18 SEER2? +
SEER and SEER2 are different rating standards. SEER2 represents newer, more stringent test conditions introduced in 2023. This unit achieves 18 under SEER2 testing, which roughly equals 17-18 under legacy SEER testing. The newer rating is more conservative and realistic for typical operating conditions.
Can this unit retrofit my existing 3-ton system? +
Yes, but the 3.5-ton size may cycle short in mild weather since it's oversized. If your home previously ran a 3-ton unit satisfactorily, consider whether ductwork and electrical infrastructure match. Verify furnace dimensions fit your existing cabinet space at 30 inches tall, 21 inches wide and deep.
How much will heating and cooling costs actually drop? +
Replacing an 80% AFUE furnace and 13 SEER condenser typically saves 20-25% annually on energy costs. Dollar savings depend on your climate, usage, and current equipment condition. In cold climates, furnace efficiency gains dominate. In hot climates, cooling efficiency dominates.
Should I choose this over a Carrier or Lennox system? +
Goodman delivers similar efficiency at lower cost, though Carrier and Lennox often include superior warranties and quieter compressors. Choose Goodman if budget is primary concern and you value straightforward installation. Choose competitors if warranty peace-of-mind justifies higher upfront expense.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
Parts coverage includes compressor, coils, and refrigerant lines. Labor is not included, only parts replacement. Warranty transfers only to original purchaser. Register online immediately after installation to activate coverage.

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