Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 17 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

High-efficiency 3-ton system delivering 97% AFUE heating and strong cooling performance at competitive pricing

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 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
$732
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system works best for homeowners upgrading from older equipment or contractors managing budget-conscious projects where reliability matters. The 97% AFUE furnace and two-stage compressor deliver measurable savings without premium pricing, making it ideal for moderate climates where both heating and cooling see regular use.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton upflow gas furnace and air conditioner system sits squarely in the value segment, offering respectable performance at $732 before any available rebates. Online Supply positions this SKU LS38783850 as an accessible entry point for homeowners replacing aging equipment and contractors managing tight project budgets. The unit combines 97% AFUE heating with 18 SEER1 cooling, two ratings that indicate thoughtful engineering across both seasonal demands.

Performance data reveals competent engineering within realistic limits. The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU heating output through a modulating burner that reduces cycling losses, while the air conditioning side produces 35,000 BTU cooling capacity with a two-stage scroll compressor. The variable-speed ECM blower adjusts between zero and 1,200 CFM based on load conditions, improving efficiency during mild weather. However, the 35,000 BTU cooling output runs lighter than nominal 3-ton sizing, suggesting this performs better in moderate versus hot climates.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE heating efficiency exceeds most competitors in this price range, reducing gas bills noticeably
  • Two-stage scroll compressor with variable-speed ECM blower handles part-load efficiency well, matching capacity to actual demand
  • 18 SEER1 rating on the AC side represents solid cooling performance for a budget-friendly unit
  • Modulating burner stages heat more responsively than single-stage alternatives, improving comfort and reducing short-cycling
  • Energy Star certified, qualifying for utility rebates that can offset initial purchase cost
  • PVC exhaust compatibility simplifies installation in retrofit applications where metal venting is problematic

Cons

  • 35,000 BTU cooling capacity falls slightly short of typical 3-ton expectations (42,000 BTU), indicating this may be undersized for hotter climates
  • 71 dB noise level during operation ranks louder than premium competitors, noticeable in quiet residential settings
  • 10-year warranty requires online registration, creating an extra administrative step that some buyers overlook

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates upgrading 15-plus year old systems and contractors installing equipment for price-conscious customers who value dependability. This system particularly suits those who qualify for utility rebates, since the $732 price point becomes even more attractive after incentives.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in very hot climates needing maximum cooling capacity should explore higher-tonnage units, and those prioritizing whisper-quiet operation should consider premium alternatives despite higher costs.

3 Ton 17 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
$732
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation demands standard HVAC practices with some modern conveniences. The unit runs on 115V single-phase 60Hz power, requiring breaker protection between 21.3 and 35 amps, well within typical residential panels. Refrigerant compatibility with both R410A and R22 provides flexibility for retrofit work. Plastic PVC exhaust piping, supported by 50 feet of insulation-wrapped suction line and 3/8-inch liquid line, simplifies residential installation compared to traditional metal venting systems.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman backs the system with a 10-year comprehensive warranty when activated through online registration, a standard protection level matching mid-tier equipment. The separate evaporator coil warranty ensures that the often-failure-prone cooling component receives dedicated coverage. Registration takes minutes and protects your investment, though some buyers fail to complete it, forfeiting coverage eligibility.

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 FeaturesRebate Available
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 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height30"
Width17.5"
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 Number7424265
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
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

Does this 3-ton system provide adequate cooling for a 2,000 square foot home? +
It depends on climate and insulation quality. The 35,000 BTU cooling output works well for moderate regions (ASHRAE zones 4-5) with decent insulation. Hotter climates or poor insulation may struggle, requiring load calculation verification before purchase to ensure proper sizing.
Can I install this myself, or do I need a licensed contractor? +
Refrigerant handling and electrical connections legally require EPA certification in most states. DIY installation of the furnace cabinet and ductwork is possible, but hiring a licensed contractor ensures proper commissioning, warranty validity, and code compliance.
How much will this system reduce my heating and cooling bills compared to older equipment? +
The 97% AFUE furnace cuts heating costs by roughly 25 to 40 percent versus 15-year-old units averaging 78% AFUE. The 18 SEER1 AC reduces cooling expenses proportionally. Exact savings depend on usage patterns, local utility rates, and equipment age you're replacing.
How does this compare to Carrier or Lennox systems at the same price point? +
Goodman typically undercuts Carrier and Lennox on initial cost while matching efficiency ratings. Brand reputation differs slightly, with Goodman perceived as industrial-focused and reliable. Direct comparison requires matching SEER1 and AFUE ratings on competing models at identical price levels.
What happens to my warranty if I don't register the system? +
Without online registration, Goodman's 10-year warranty becomes void. Registration is quick and protects coverage for parts and labor, so complete it immediately after installation to maintain eligibility.

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