Review
The Goodman 2.5 Ton 14 SEER 97% AFUE system is a solid mid-range choice for homeowners seeking balanced heating and cooling without flagship pricing. Goodman remains a trusted name among contractors for delivering reliable equipment at reasonable costs. This downflow A-coil configuration fits most home layouts, and the Energy Star certification signals genuine efficiency investment rather than marketing hype.
The heating side shines with a 97% AFUE rating and modulating burner that adjusts output from 25% to 100%, cutting standby losses during mild winter days. Cooling delivers 29,000 BTU with a 16 SEER1 rating, though the single-stage scroll compressor runs either full capacity or off, without mid-range options. The variable-speed ECM blower motor compensates somewhat by varying airflow to reduce runtime. Electrical requirements are reasonable at 17.1 to 25 amps on 115V single-phase service.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace efficiency means minimal gas waste during winter months, translating to real utility savings
- Modulating burner stages output gradually instead of cycling on/off, reducing temperature swings and energy consumption
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts automatically to actual heating/cooling needs rather than running full power constantly
- Energy Star certified air conditioner with 16 SEER1 rating exceeds baseline efficiency standards
- Downflow configuration works well for homes with basements or crawl spaces and can be installed horizontally
- 10-year parts warranty with online registration provides solid peace of mind for the investment
Cons
- 3-ton cooling (29,000 BTU) is undersized compared to the 2.5-ton rating claimed, which contradicts the product title
- Single-stage compressor lacks capacity modulation, meaning the AC runs full power or not at all regardless of load
- 71.5 dB noise level during operation is slightly louder than high-end competitors, noticeable in quiet homes
- Requires 17.1 to 25 amp breaker, so older homes with limited electrical capacity may need panel upgrades
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in mild to moderate climates who prioritize winter heating efficiency and steady comfort over maximum cooling capacity. This system works well for families in northern regions where heating runs 6-8 months per year and summer cooling needs are moderate.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in hot, humid climates needing aggressive summer cooling should skip this unit. Homes in areas with extreme temperature swings also benefit more from two-stage or variable-capacity compressors that this single-stage design cannot provide.
Installation
Downflow installation places the unit in a basement or crawl space with ductwork running up and out. Technicians need 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction lines, with 3/4 inch suction insulation included. PVC exhaust flue is required for the furnace section. Standard installation typically takes 4-6 hours for experienced HVAC contractors. Most homes won't need electrical upgrades if breaker capacity is available.
Warranty & Reliability
Online Supply backs this unit with a 10-year parts warranty after free online registration. This covers internal components but typically excludes labor and refrigerant. The 10-year term is competitive with other mid-tier systems and reflects Goodman's confidence in the scroll compressor and modulating furnace. Registration is straightforward and recommended immediately after installation.
Specifications
| SKU | LS38783850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 29,000 |
| Heating BTU | 60,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A or R22 |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 71.5 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 30.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 16 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 25 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 17.1 amps |
| Tonnage | 3 Ton |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 17.5" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Installation 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 Information | PROPOSITION 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. |
| Configuration | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424269 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1200 |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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