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

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
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman system suits homeowners upgrading from single-stage equipment who want measurable energy savings without premium pricing. The 97% AFUE furnace and 18 SEER2 condenser deliver genuine efficiency gains, particularly for climates with moderate heating and cooling loads.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton upflow system occupies a practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market. This combination delivers both heating and cooling from a single compact package, measuring 34.5 inches tall by 21 inches wide, fitting most closets and utility spaces. Two-stage cooling and modulating gas heating represent mainstream efficiency choices backed by solid manufacturer support and contractor familiarity.

Performance numbers justify the efficiency claims. The furnace achieves 97% AFUE through condensing technology and modulating burner operation, reducing gas consumption during mild weather. The 35,000 BTU, 18 SEER2 condenser uses a scroll compressor and two-stage staging to handle load variations quietly. A variable-speed ECM blower adjusts to 1,600 CFM maximum, lowering electricity use during partial-load operation when the home needs less conditioning.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs by 15-20% versus 80% AFUE systems
  • 18 SEER2 condenser with two-stage design minimizes noise at 71 dB during partial load operation
  • Modulating burner and variable-speed ECM blower optimize part-load performance year-round
  • R410A refrigerant provides long-term compatibility and widespread service support
  • Energy Star certified with 10-year parts warranty via online registration

Cons

  • Spec sheet lists conflicting tonnage (3 ton system title versus 5 ton condenser), creating buyer confusion
  • 18 SEER2 rating on condenser but no SEER2 rating disclosed for complete system
  • 71 dB noise level acceptable but not among quietest two-stage units available

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing 10-15 year old equipment in moderate climates where utility rebates apply to 95%+ AFUE furnaces. Contractors installing in homes with existing ductwork and standard 115V service who prioritize reliability over cutting-edge efficiency.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers seeking maximum efficiency should compare 98% AFUE models, and those in very cold climates may benefit from higher capacity units.

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

This upflow A-coil configuration suits basements, attics, and closets with vertical mounting. Supply lines require 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction ports, standard for residential work. PVC exhaust venting allows direct vent through sidewalls without costly chimney modifications. Electrical service demands 115V single-phase 60 Hz with 21.3 to 35-amp breaker sizing, typical for homes with standard electrical panels.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman covers parts for 10 years when registered online at purchase. This matches industry standard for mid-tier systems. Labor and refrigerant are not covered. Online registration is straightforward and extends protection, making this particularly valuable given the modulating components and variable-speed blower that benefit from 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
Height34.5"
Width21"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Installations Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman 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.
ConfigurationUpflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7424266
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the spec sheet say both 3 ton and 5 ton? +
The system is rated 3 tons for the complete heating and cooling match, but the condenser alone is sized at 5 tons. This mismatch in documentation is confusing. Request AHRI certificate 7424266 to confirm matched system tonnage before purchase to ensure proper installation.
Can this unit connect to my existing ductwork? +
Yes, if your current ducts are sized for 1,600 CFM maximum airflow and your furnace is also upflow configuration. The 3/8-inch and 7/8-inch refrigerant lines are standard residential sizes. Have an HVAC contractor measure your duct area and verify the system matches your home's load requirements.
How much money will I save on heating bills? +
A 97% AFUE system versus 80% AFUE saves approximately 17% on natural gas costs. In regions paying $12 per million BTU, you recover roughly $200-300 annually on an 80,000 BTU furnace. Savings depend on climate severity, thermostat settings, and insulation quality.
How does this compare to higher-efficiency alternatives? +
This 97% AFUE furnace trails 98% AFUE models by roughly $300-500 in system price but saves only 1% in annual gas costs. For the condenser, 18 SEER2 sits below 19-20 SEER2 units. The value tradeoff favors this unit unless your utility offers rebates exceeding $400.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
Parts only, with online registration required. Labor, refrigerant, and non-warrantable items like filters are excluded. Most manufacturers offer similar coverage. Keep purchase documentation and registration confirmation accessible for service calls.

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