Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 16 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

16 SEER heat pump with variable speed motor at an aggressive price point

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 16 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
$89
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman unit delivers solid efficiency and heating capability for contractors upgrading residential systems in moderate climates. The 16 SEER rating, variable-speed ECM blower, and two-stage compressor make it competitive for homeowners seeking lower operating costs without premium pricing.

Review

The 3-ton Goodman horizontal heat pump sits in a crowded middle market segment where value and reliability matter equally to homeowners. At an $89 price point, this unit targets budget-conscious contractors and DIY installers seeking efficient cooling without premium brand markups. Online Supply's offering includes a rebate opportunity, making initial investment even more attractive. The combination of 36,000 BTU cooling capacity, two-stage condenser, and variable-speed blower positions this as a legitimate alternative to higher-priced competitors.

Performance specs tell a straightforward story. The 16 SEER1 rating delivers measurable savings versus 13-14 SEER baseline models, translating to roughly $15-25 monthly reductions in summer cooling costs across a typical 3-ton application. The variable-speed ECM blower adjusts between part-load and full-capacity conditions, preventing overshooting and maintaining consistent comfort. Two-stage compression at the condenser level handles light cooling loads efficiently, quieter than single-stage alternatives. Dual 36,000 BTU rating covers heating and cooling identically, supporting supplemental electric heat packs rated 3-15 kilowatts.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 16 SEER1 efficiency rating qualifies for Energy Star, reducing annual cooling costs by 15-20% versus 13 SEER baseline units
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor runs at 1,600 CFM maximum, improving comfort and reducing energy waste during partial-load conditions
  • Two-stage scroll compressor provides better part-load efficiency and quieter operation at 73 dBA versus fixed-capacity competitors
  • Dual heating and cooling capacity with 36,000 BTU in both directions suits mid-range residential applications effectively
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers manufacturer defects and provides reasonable peace of mind

Cons

  • Noise level of 73 dBA is slightly elevated for residential installations, particularly in bedroom or living spaces near the unit
  • Contradictory breaker sizing specs (15 amps max, 20.3 amps minimum) create confusion during electrical planning and may require clarification with manufacturer
  • Limited to 208/230V single-phase, restricting installation flexibility on properties with three-phase service or unusual electrical configurations

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors performing system upgrades in homes across the Southeast and mid-Atlantic where moderate heating seasons allow heat pump operation 8-10 months yearly. Homeowners in moderate climates seeking reliable cooling with supplemental heat and willing to accept 73 dBA noise for efficiency gains.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in high-altitude locations or severe climate zones requiring consistent backup heating, and those needing silent operation in noise-sensitive residential settings should evaluate higher-end models with sound dampening.

3 Ton 16 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air
$89
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation complexity remains moderate for licensed HVAC techs. The unit accepts both R410A and R22 refrigerant, offering some flexibility in retrofit applications. Sweat valve connections use standard 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines, both supplied with 3/4-inch insulation wrapping up to 50 feet. Electrical demand requires 208/230V single-phase 60 Hz service. The confusing breaker sizing specification (claiming both 15 amps maximum and 20.3 amps minimum) warrants direct manufacturer confirmation before finalizing breaker selection.

Warranty & Reliability

Online Supply provides a standard 10-year manufacturer warranty upon online registration. Coverage protects against manufacturing defects and component failures during normal operation. This represents average protection in the residential heat pump category, aligning with most Goodman offerings. Registration requirement is straightforward but mandatory, ensuring warranty validity. For extended peace of mind beyond 10 years, buyers should budget separately for service agreements or premium replacement insurance.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU36,000
Heating BTU36,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
Product FeaturesRebate Available, Two Stage Condenser
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)16
Condenser StagesTwo Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Max Breaker Size15 amps
Min. Breaker Size20.3 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height21"
Width21.125"
Depth26"
ResourcesCHPF Installation Manual CHPF 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.
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1,600
Electric Backup Heat Capabilities (Optional)3 Kilowatts, 5 Kilowatts, 6 Kilowatts, 8 Kilowatts, 10 Kilowatts, 15 Kilowatts
ConfigurationHorizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this unit work in cold climates requiring backup heating? +
The 36,000 BTU heating capacity works adequately in moderate climates, but harsh winters benefit from the 3-15 kilowatt electric backup heat options. Below 30 degrees, supplemental heat engagement becomes frequent, reducing overall efficiency gains. Northern installations should verify annual heating degree days match manufacturer performance maps.
What's the actual installation cost impact of the variable-speed motor? +
The ECM variable-speed blower adds roughly $200-400 to labor over a fixed-speed equivalent due to expanded wiring and control calibration. Long-term savings justify this premium, delivering 5-10% additional energy reduction during shoulder seasons when partial-load operation dominates. Most contractors complete installation in 4-6 hours.
How does 16 SEER1 compare to 16 SEER2? +
SEER1 and SEER2 use different testing standards. SEER2 typically shows 15-20% lower numbers using stricter conditions. This unit's 16 SEER1 roughly equals 12-13 SEER2, making true efficiency comparison important when shopping competing brands rated under newer standards.
Is Online Supply warranty coverage as strong as direct Goodman purchases? +
Online Supply resells Goodman products, so warranty terms mirror direct Goodman coverage pending registration. Third-party sellers occasionally impose shipping restrictions or require proof of professional installation. Contact Online Supply's support directly to confirm warranty eligibility before purchase.
Why does the spec sheet list conflicting breaker sizing information? +
The 15-amp maximum versus 20.3-amp minimum contradiction likely indicates documentation error between different voltage configurations or revisions. Contact the manufacturer for definitive breaker sizing before installation. Using incorrect breaker sizing risks nuisance tripping or inadequate protection.

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