Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 18 SEER 96% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

18 SEER efficiency with 96% heating at a contractor-friendly price point

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 18 SEER 96% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
Current Price
$3225
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman system delivers solid efficiency for mixed climates where cooling and heating both matter, especially for contractors needing a reliable 3-ton split system without premium pricing. Best suited for retrofit jobs in moderate climates where 18 SEER cooling and 96% AFUE heating provide meaningful energy savings without oversizing.

Review

Goodman builds durable residential HVAC equipment that contractors have trusted for decades, and this 3-ton split system reflects that reputation. The combination of 18 SEER air conditioning and 96% AFUE gas heating targets the sweet spot for retrofit installations in mixed climates where both seasonal demands matter. At $3,225, it undercuts premium brands like Lennox and Carrier by 25-40% while maintaining respectable efficiency ratings and a decade-long warranty.

The cooling side delivers 35,000 BTU using a scroll compressor with two-stage operation and R410A or R22 refrigerant compatibility, hitting that 18 SEER mark through intelligent staging rather than brute force. On the heating side, the 120,000 BTU furnace achieves 96% AFUE with a two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower motor rated for 2,000 CFM. This modulation approach reduces noise (71 dB) and electricity waste compared to single-stage competitors, though it does require careful sizing to avoid oversizing mistakes.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 18 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for Energy Star and reduces summer utility costs by 20-30% versus 13 SEER baseline units
  • 96% AFUE furnace means only 4% of heating fuel is wasted, excellent for natural gas and propane heating seasons
  • Two-stage compressor and burner allow the system to modulate capacity, reducing short cycling and improving comfort
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor runs only as fast as needed, cutting electricity consumption and noise levels
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts, providing decent protection for residential and light commercial applications

Cons

  • Spec sheet shows 5 Ton tonnage capacity but product title claims 3 Ton, creating confusion about actual cooling output and proper sizing
  • 71 dB noise level is moderately loud, not ideal if outdoor condenser is near bedrooms or quiet spaces
  • Requires 21.3 to 35 amp breaker and 115V single-phase power, necessitating electrical upgrade in some older homes

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors replacing older systems in homes with both significant cooling and heating needs will appreciate the 18 SEER and 96% AFUE combination at this price. Homeowners in zones 4-6 seeking equipment that performs well in shoulder seasons and handles both AC and heat will see attractive payback periods.

Consider Alternatives If

Skip this if you live in a heating-only climate or need quiet outdoor operation near sensitive areas, or if your home electrical service cannot support a 21-35 amp breaker without major upgrades.

3 Ton 18 SEER 96% AFUE 120,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fur
$3225
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Downflow configuration fits basement or attic installations where horizontal discharge works. Requires plastic PVC exhaust venting and standard refrigerant line sets (3/8 inch liquid, 3/4 inch suction). Electrical needs 115V single phase at 21.3 to 35 amps, potentially requiring breaker panel work in older homes. Sweat-type connections demand soldering skills or professional installation.

Warranty & Reliability

10-year parts coverage comes standard with online registration, protecting against compressor failure and most internal components. This is middle-of-the-road coverage compared to Carrier's 10-year compressor specific and Goodman's extended options. Labor and refrigerant are typically not covered, so negotiate service plan details with your installer upfront.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU35,000
Heating BTU120,000
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
Tonnage5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height30"
Width24.5"
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 Number7368845
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2000
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Burner StagesTwo
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 listing say 3 Ton but the specs show 5 Ton? +
This appears to be a data error in the spec sheet. The 35,000 BTU cooling capacity and product title indicate 3-ton rating. Always verify against the AHRI certificate number 7368845 before purchasing, as tonnage directly affects system sizing and warranty eligibility.
Can this system retrofit into an existing ductwork with 3-ton capacity? +
Yes, downflow configuration works with most existing forced-air systems. However, verify your ducts are sized for proper CFM (2,000 max on this unit). Undersized ducts will reduce efficiency and cause the system to cycle short, defeating the two-stage advantage.
How much will 18 SEER actually save compared to an 13 SEER unit? +
In moderate climates with 600-800 cooling hours annually, expect 20-30% lower AC electricity costs. In high-humidity zones (1,000+ hours), savings approach 35%. Combined with 96% AFUE heating, total utility savings typically reach 25-35% versus 10-year-old equipment.
How does this compare to Lennox or Carrier at similar price points? +
Goodman matches efficiency (18 SEER, 96% AFUE) but offers less premium brand cachet and shorter warranty periods. Lennox and Carrier often bundle smart controls and extended warranties, justifying higher prices. Goodman wins on raw price-to-performance ratio for cost-conscious contractors.
Is the 10-year warranty good enough for resale? +
Yes, transferable registration helps home resale value. However, confirm transferability with Online Supply. Many buyers prefer Carrier or Lennox simply for brand recognition, though this Goodman system is mechanically equivalent in reliability.

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