Review
The Goodman 3-ton gas furnace and air conditioner system represents a competent mid-range offering for contractors and homeowners seeking balanced heating and cooling performance. This downflow configuration fits standard closet installations, making it practical for retrofit work. The system combines Goodman's established manufacturing reputation with solid efficiency ratings that appeal to energy-conscious buyers willing to invest moderately above baseline equipment.
Heating performance reaches 80,000 BTU with a remarkable 97% AFUE rating, meaning nearly all fuel converts to usable heat. Cooling delivers 35,000 BTU at 18 SEER2 efficiency through a scroll compressor with two-stage operation. The modulating burner adjusts output continuously rather than cycling on-off, reducing temperature swings. Variable-speed ECM blower motor dynamically adjusts airflow between 0 and 1,600 CFM, optimizing efficiency across different operating conditions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace efficiency is exceptional, reducing heating fuel costs significantly compared to standard 80-90% units
- 18 SEER2 rating and two-stage compressor deliver superior cooling efficiency and quieter operation at 71 dB
- Modulating burner adjusts heating output in real-time, improving comfort and reducing energy waste
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor runs at optimal speeds for different conditions, enhancing efficiency
- PVC exhaust compatibility simplifies installation compared to metal-only alternatives
- Energy Star certified with 10-year warranty plus online registration benefits
Cons
- Spec sheet shows conflicting tonnage data, listing both 3-ton and 5-ton capacity which creates confusion for sizing verification
- 35 amp maximum breaker requirement demands proper electrical infrastructure that older homes may lack
- No pricing transparency provided, making value comparison against competitors difficult
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in temperate climates where both heating and cooling run frequently throughout the year will see the best ROI. This system is ideal for retrofit applications where maximizing efficiency on existing ductwork is essential.
Consider Alternatives If
Homes in predominantly cold climates should consider furnace-focused systems instead, as the cooling capacity may go underutilized. Those with electrical limitations or tight budgets should explore single-stage alternatives.
Installation
Installation suits both upflow and downflow applications with right-side flue positioning. The system uses standard 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction line connections with sweat valve fittings. PVC exhaust compatibility is a significant advantage over metal-only requirements. R410A refrigerant requires certified technicians. Electrical needs fall between 21.9 and 35 amps, requiring proper breaker sizing.
Warranty & Reliability
Ten-year comprehensive coverage applies upon online registration, protecting against manufacturing defects. Coverage includes compressor and heat exchanger failures. Registration is straightforward and extends protection at no additional cost. This warranty length matches industry standards for mid-tier equipment, offering reasonable risk mitigation without premium pricing.
Specifications
| SKU | CAPT4961C4 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 35,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| 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. |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424271 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
Frequently Asked Questions
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