Review
Goodman's 2.5 ton horizontal gas furnace and air conditioner system targets the practical middle market, balancing efficiency gains against affordability. At $115, this SKU LS38783850 represents solid value for contractors and homeowners replacing end-of-life equipment. The unit combines a high-efficiency furnace with a respectable air conditioner in one compact A-coil configuration, eliminating the need for separate component sourcing and simplifying installation logistics.
The furnace delivers 100,000 BTU of heating output at 96% AFUE, meaning you retain nearly all combustion energy as usable heat. The cooling side provides 29,000 BTU (2.5 ton equivalent) at 16 SEER, earning ENERGY STAR qualification. A two-stage burner modulates heating output, and the multi-speed ECM blower adjusts CFM between 0 and 1600 based on demand. This intelligent staging reduces energy waste during part-load operation, a critical factor for monthly utility bills.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace converts nearly all gas fuel to heat, reducing monthly heating bills by 15-20% versus 80% AFUE models
- 16 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for ENERGY STAR certification and utility rebates in many regions
- Two-stage burner adapts to heating demand, running at lower capacity during mild weather to minimize cycling losses
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor matches airflow to actual comfort needs rather than running at fixed speed
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides long-term protection against the costliest failure point
- PVC flue compatibility simplifies venting and reduces installation costs versus metal flue systems
Cons
- Single-stage compressor cannot modulate cooling capacity, leading to temperature swings in humid climates
- 71.5 dB noise level is audible during operation, potentially noticeable in open-concept homes
- 3.5 ton capacity listed but marketed as 2.5 ton creates specification confusion for sizing accuracy
Who Should Buy
Best For
This system works well for homeowners in heating-dominant climates (North, Midwest, Mountain regions) who prioritize winter efficiency and want reliable cooling as secondary function. It's also smart for property investors and landlords seeking durable equipment with manageable upfront costs and strong warranty coverage.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this if you live in high-humidity regions where variable cooling capacity matters, or if you need quiet operation in a master bedroom location due to 71.5 dB output.
Installation
The horizontal, upflow A-coil design fits attics and crawlspaces without extensive ductwork redesign. Weighing 30 pounds, it's manageable for two technicians. Connection points include 3/8-inch liquid line and 7/8-inch suction line with 3/4-inch insulation, standard for residential systems. PVC flue requirement simplifies venting. Electrical needs are modest: 115V single-phase 60Hz supply with 17.1 to 25-amp breaker sizing.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage includes lifetime protection on the heat exchanger (the most expensive component to replace), plus 10-year unit replacement and 10-year parts warranty with online registration. This tiered approach rewards proactive owners who register and maintain records while providing solid backstop protection. Lifetime heat exchanger coverage is uncommon at this price point and demonstrates manufacturer confidence in build quality.
Specifications
| SKU | LS38783850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 29,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Lifetime Heat Exchanger, 10 Years Unit Replacement, and 10 Years Parts 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 | 3.5 Ton |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | GMEC96 Installation Manual GMEC96 Specifications Sheet GMEC96 Owner's Manual GMEC96 Service Manual GMEC96 Replacement Parts Manual GMEC96 Brochure Goodman Furnace 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 | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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