Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 17 SEER 97% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

High-efficiency horizontal furnace and AC combo with modulating burner and variable-speed blower

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 17 SEER 97% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
$89
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Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system delivers exceptional heating efficiency at 97% AFUE and solid cooling performance with SEER1 18, making it ideal for contractors seeking reliable equipment for horizontal installations in tight spaces. The modulating burner and variable-speed ECM blower keep energy bills down while maintaining consistent comfort.

Review

The Goodman CHPF4860D6 is a horizontal gas furnace and air conditioner combo positioned for contractors and homeowners seeking mid-range efficiency without premium pricing. At $89 for the furnace section, this system balances performance and affordability in a compact horizontal package. Goodman's reputation for reliability means technicians know these units, and the horizontal orientation opens installation possibilities unavailable with traditional vertical configurations.

This unit delivers impressive heating performance with 97% AFUE and 120,000 BTU output, earning ENERGY STAR certification. The modulating burner adjusts flame size continuously rather than cycling on and off, cutting wasted fuel. Cooling reaches 35,000 BTU with SEER1 18 efficiency through a two-stage scroll compressor. The variable-speed ECM blower runs at 2000 CFM maximum but reduces speed when full airflow is unnecessary, directly lowering electricity costs compared to fixed-speed motors.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs year-round compared to standard 80% units
  • Modulating burner stages heat smoothly, avoiding the on-off cycling that wastes fuel
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor runs only as hard as needed, cutting electricity consumption
  • ENERGY STAR certified and SEER1 18 cooling efficiency qualifies for utility rebates
  • Horizontal configuration maximizes installation flexibility in attics, crawlspaces, and tight mechanical rooms
  • Compact dimensions (24.5" H x 26" W x 21.125" D) fit where traditional vertical furnaces cannot
  • Plastic PVC exhaust flue eliminates costly masonry chimney requirements
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor on most components

Cons

  • 71 dB noise level is moderately loud for a variable-speed system, noticeably audible in quiet homes
  • R410A or R22 refrigerant compatibility complicates future service since R22 is being phased out
  • 5-ton cooling capacity on the spec sheet conflicts with stated 3-ton system rating, creating confusion about actual cooling output
  • Scroll compressor with two-stage condenser requires more maintenance knowledge than simpler single-stage designs
  • Limited to 208/230V single-phase power, incompatible with older 115V or three-phase electrical systems

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing systems in homes with space constraints, attics, or crawlspaces where horizontal orientation is necessary. Homeowners in moderate climates who prioritize heating efficiency and want to minimize operational noise while capturing available rebates.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone needing a true 3-ton cooling system should clarify the tonnage discrepancy before purchasing, and those in regions with R22 refrigerant restrictions should consider R410A-only units to avoid future phase-out complications.

3 Ton 17 SEER 97% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fur
$89
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Installation

Horizontal installation requires proper return and supply ductwork orientation, with the right-side flue location constraining placement options. The plastic PVC exhaust simplifies venting compared to metal flues requiring roof penetration. Electrical setup needs 208/230V single-phase power and a 21.9 to 35-amp breaker. Technicians should allow 4-6 hours for full integration with existing ductwork and refrigerant lines.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman covers this system for 10 years on parts when registered online, though labor coverage typically runs 5 years and varies by region. Registration takes 15 minutes and activates full coverage immediately. Extended warranties are available through most distributors for additional protection on the compressor and blower motor.

Specifications

SKUCHPF4860D6
Brand/ManufacturerGoodman
Cooling BTU35,000
Heating BTU120,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)71
Weight (in lbs)77.000000
FeatureSpec
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 Number7424268
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2000
ConfigurationHorizontal
Flue LocationRight
Energy StarYes
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Height24.5"
Width26"
Depth21.125"
ResourcesCHPF Installation Manual CHPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
SEER1 (Efficiency)18
Condenser StagesTwo Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Max Breaker Size35 amps
Min. Breaker Size21.9 amps
Tonnage5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the spec sheet show 5-ton cooling when this is marketed as a 3-ton system? +
This appears to be a data entry error in the specifications. The 35,000 BTU cooling capacity confirms this is approximately a 3-ton unit, not 5-ton. Verify tonnage directly with your supplier before ordering to avoid conflicts with your existing ductwork and outdoor condenser sizing.
Can I install this in a vertical position or only horizontal? +
This unit is specifically designed for horizontal installation in attics and crawlspaces. Vertical upflow/downflow models exist in the Goodman lineup but are different SKUs. Using this horizontally-configured system vertically can damage the heat exchanger and void warranty.
Does the 97% AFUE really save money compared to my old 80% furnace? +
Yes. A 97% AFUE furnace converts 97 cents of every fuel dollar into heat versus 80 cents with older units. On a typical $1200 annual heating bill, you save roughly $200 per year. The unit pays itself back through energy savings in 5-7 years depending on climate.
Should I worry about R410A or R22 refrigerant compatibility? +
R22 refrigerant is being phased out and becomes increasingly expensive and scarce. Request an R410A-only version if available. If you inherit R22 in this unit, plan for replacement within 3-5 years as refrigerant prices spike for older coolants.
Is the 10-year warranty enough coverage for this price point? +
Yes. Goodman's 10-year parts warranty with registration is generous for equipment in this price range. Most competitors offer 5-7 years. Extended service plans cost $400-600 extra and cover labor if needed.

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