Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 17 SEER 98% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

High-efficiency two-stage system with modulating burner and variable-speed blower for precision comfort

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 17 SEER 98% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman system excels for homeowners in moderate climates seeking reliable heating and cooling without premium pricing. The 97% AFUE furnace and 18 SEER2 condenser deliver measurable energy savings, while the modulating burner and variable-speed ECM blower provide efficient part-load operation year-round.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton gas furnace and air conditioner system represents a practical middle ground in the HVAC market. This upflow configuration handles heating and cooling for homes between 1,200 and 1,600 square feet. With Energy Star certification and Goodman's established reputation for durability, it appeals to cost-conscious homeowners and contractors who value reliability over cutting-edge features.

Performance specs are genuinely impressive for the price point. The furnace delivers 97% AFUE with an 80,000 BTU modulating burner, meaning it adjusts output based on demand rather than cycling on and off repeatedly. The 3-ton condenser achieves 18 SEER2 efficiency using a scroll compressor that runs quieter at 71 dB. The variable-speed ECM blower modulates between 0 and 1,600 CFM, preventing the oversizing waste that plagues older single-speed systems.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency with modulating burner for responsive heating and lower fuel costs
  • 18 SEER2 rating on the 3-ton condenser, well above minimum requirements for Energy Star qualification
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor adapts airflow from 0 to 1600 CFM, reducing electricity draw during partial-load conditions
  • Two-stage scroll compressor provides quiet operation at 71 dB and smoother capacity modulation
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers major components and provides contractor peace of mind

Cons

  • Spec sheet shows conflicting tonnage ratings (3-ton in title but 5-ton listed in specs), creating confusion about actual capacity
  • Cooling BTU of 35,000 exceeds the 3-ton specification (36,000 BTU), suggesting possible data entry errors in documentation
  • R410A refrigerant requires certified technicians and proper recovery equipment, adding service complexity compared to newer alternatives

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing aging systems who want dependable performance and lower operating costs without premium-brand pricing. Contractors standardizing on quality mid-tier equipment will appreciate the straightforward installation requirements and solid warranty backing.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers seeking ultra-high efficiency (23+ SEER) should explore single-stage systems, and those in very hot climates need units specifically rated for extreme temperature operation.

3 Ton 17 SEER 98% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
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Installation

Installation requires standard ductwork modifications and refrigerant line sets (3/8-inch liquid, 7/8-inch suction). The unit supports plastic PVC exhaust venting, which reduces flue installation costs compared to metal ductwork. Electrical demands are moderate at 115V, 1-phase, 60 Hz with breaker requirements between 21.3 and 35 amps. Most experienced HVAC technicians complete installation in 4 to 6 hours.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts warranty activates upon online registration and covers the compressor, heat exchanger, and blower motor. This is Goodman's standard coverage and matches most mid-tier competitor offerings. Registration is straightforward and typically completed during or immediately after installation, ensuring no gaps in coverage.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU35,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A
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
Tonnage5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height30"
Width24.5"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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 Number7424266
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Burner StagesModulating
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 spec sheet list both 3-ton and 5-ton ratings? +
This appears to be a documentation error from the manufacturer or distributor. The title and cooling capacity (35,000 BTU) align with 3-ton sizing, while the specs section incorrectly lists 5-ton. Confirm actual capacity with your installer before purchase, as this affects system sizing recommendations.
Does this unit work with my existing ductwork? +
Most likely yes, provided your ducts accommodate 1,600 CFM maximum airflow. The upflow configuration fits standard attic or basement installations. A technician should calculate actual cfm requirements based on your home's square footage and insulation to prevent undersizing or oversizing.
How much will I save on heating costs with 97% AFUE? +
Upgrading from an 80% AFUE system saves roughly 17% on heating fuel. A home spending $1,200 annually on heating could save $200+ per year. Actual savings depend on climate, thermostat management, and current system efficiency, so results vary by region.
Is 18 SEER2 enough, or should I buy a higher-rated unit? +
18 SEER2 exceeds federal minimums and qualifies for Energy Star, delivering solid cooling savings. Units rated 20+ SEER cost substantially more with diminishing returns in moderate climates. Choose 18 SEER2 for balanced efficiency and payback period, or upgrade only if your cooling bills are extremely high.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
It covers compressor, heat exchanger, and blower motor failures under normal operation when properly registered. Labor and refrigerant are not included. This is standard mid-tier coverage and does not extend to ductwork, electrical work, or installation-related issues.

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