3 Ton Goodman GZV9SA361C 19 SEER2 R-32 Side Discharge Heat Pump Condenser
The Goodman GZV9SA361C is a 3-ton (36,000 BTU/h) variable-speed inverter heat pump condenser and one of the most popular residential capacities for mid-size homes. Operating on R-32 refrigerant at 19 SEER2, its inverter compressor ramps up and down to match the load, delivering quiet, efficient cooling and strong dehumidification in summer plus dependable heat-pump heating when temperatures drop.
Is a 3-Ton Heat Pump the Right Size?
The 3-ton GZV9SA361C sits in the middle of the GZV9S side-discharge lineup and is a common fit for average-size single-family homes with a moderate cooling and heating load. Its variable-speed compressor is especially valuable in humid regions: by running longer at lower speeds it wrings more moisture out of the air, so rooms feel comfortable without overcooling.
Square footage alone never determines the right size. Window area, insulation, duct design, ceiling height, sun exposure, and regional climate all influence the load, so a Manual J calculation should always confirm capacity before purchase.
Ideal for: average mid-size single-family homes needing balanced whole-home comfort and effective humidity control.
Choosing between sizes? Move up to the 4 Ton Goodman GZV9SA4810 condenser for larger homes, or step down to the 2 Ton Goodman GZV9SA241C condenser for smaller footprints.
Recommended applications are general guidelines only. Confirm capacity with a load calculation using our tonnage & BTU calculator, request free sizing help, or call 813-885-7999.
Key Specifications
| Model (MPN) | GZV9SA361C |
|---|---|
| Nominal Capacity | 3 Ton — 36,000 BTU/h |
| Efficiency | 19 SEER2 / 11.7 EER2 / up to 9.2 HSPF2 (variable-speed inverter) |
| Refrigerant | R-32 |
| Compressor | Variable-Speed Inverter-Driven Swing Compressor |
| Air Discharge | Side Discharge |
| Sound Level | As low as 45 dBA in quiet mode |
| Electrical | 208-230V / 1 Phase / 60 Hz — MCA 21.8A, Max Breaker 25A |
| Heating Operation | Reliable heating down to -20°F |
| Cabinet | Galvanized steel with corrosion-resistant finish |
| Cabinet Dimensions | 37" W × 12-5/8" D × 56-5/16" H |
| Controls | Communicating system — requires a Goodman approved communicating thermostat |
| AHRI-Matched Indoor (tested) | CAHEA3630 coil / MBVK16 air handler |
| Warranty | 10-Year Parts Limited Warranty & 10-Year Unit Replacement Limited Warranty (with timely registration) |
The GZV9SA361C is the outdoor condensing unit only and should be AHRI-matched with a compatible Goodman R-32 EEV-equipped indoor coil or air handler for full rated performance.
Features & Benefits
Comfort & Efficiency
- Inverter compressor fine-tunes capacity for consistent, draft-free comfort
- 19 SEER2 / 11.7 EER2 cooling efficiency for lower operating costs
- Extended low-speed cycles deliver superior humidity control in muggy climates
- Up to 9.2 HSPF2 heating efficiency in heat-pump mode
- Effective cold-weather heating down to -20°F
- Communicating platform simplifies wiring and adds active diagnostics
Build & Installation
- Compact side-discharge cabinet installs neatly along narrow side yards
- Low-GWP R-32 refrigerant supports current environmental standards
- Corrosion-resistant galvanized steel cabinet for long outdoor service life
- Factory-installed stop valves accept field-run refrigerant copper
- Separate bi-flow filter drier ships with the unit for on-site installation
- Protected by a 10-year parts and 10-year unit replacement limited warranty
Specifications & Manuals
Product documentation includes technical specifications, installation instructions, and service information to assist with equipment selection, installation, and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GZV9SA361C 3-ton the right capacity for a mid-size home?
The 3-ton size is one of the most common residential capacities and typically fits average mid-size single-family homes. Because loads vary with insulation, windows, and climate, confirm the fit with a Manual J calculation before ordering.
How does the variable-speed compressor improve humidity control?
By running longer at lower speeds instead of cycling on and off, the inverter compressor pulls more moisture from the air. That keeps indoor humidity in check and rooms comfortable without overcooling.
What are the efficiency ratings of the 3-ton GZV9SA361C?
It is branded at 19 SEER2 with 11.7 EER2 and up to 9.2 HSPF2 heating efficiency. Final rated efficiency depends on the specific AHRI-matched indoor combination.
What circuit does the GZV9SA361C require?
It runs on a dedicated 208-230V, single-phase, 60 Hz circuit with a minimum circuit ampacity of 21.8A and a 25A maximum breaker. A licensed electrician should confirm wiring against the unit rating plate.
Does the 3-ton condenser come with the indoor coil or air handler?
No. It is sold as the outdoor condensing unit and must be paired with a compatible Goodman R-32 EEV-equipped coil or air handler; the tested match is the CAHEA3630 coil or MBVK16 air handler.
GZV9S Technical SpecificationsGZV9S Installation InstructionsGZV9S Service ManualGZV9S Warranty Certificate
