Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 80% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

Solid mid-tier comfort system with 80% efficiency and proven Goodman reliability.

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3.5 Ton 13 SEER 80% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This 3.5-ton system works well for homeowners in moderate climates who need dependable heating and cooling without premium pricing. The 80% AFUE furnace and 13 SEER air conditioner deliver balanced performance for homes ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 square feet.

Review

The Goodman 3.5-ton horizontal gas furnace and air conditioner system lands solidly in the mainstream HVAC market, targeting cost-conscious homeowners and contractors who value proven engineering over premium features. Goodman's reputation for durability and service support makes this unit a practical choice for homes ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 square feet. The horizontal A-coil design fits tight spaces, while the two-component approach lets homeowners mix and match heating and cooling independently if needed.

Performance specs reflect a balanced mid-market offering. The furnace delivers 100,000 BTU with two-stage burner capability and 80% AFUE efficiency, heating responsively without excessive energy waste. The air conditioner provides 42,000 BTU cooling at 13 SEER with a single-stage reciprocating compressor, handling moderate loads effectively. The variable-speed blower runs up to 2,000 CFM, distributing conditioned air consistently throughout the home without excessive noise for its class.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Two-stage burner delivers responsive heating with 100,000 BTU output and reduced short-cycling
  • 13 SEER cooling efficiency provides decent comfort without stretching electrical capacity on standard 208/230V service
  • Variable-speed blower motor optimizes airflow at 2,000 CFM maximum and improves distribution consistency
  • Horizontal A-coil configuration suits tight attic or crawlspace installations with compact 36.25" height
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers both heating and cooling components

Cons

  • 80% AFUE is mid-range by today's standards, meaning higher heating costs than 90+ AFUE systems over time
  • Single-stage condenser cycles on and off rather than modulating, reducing part-load efficiency in mild weather
  • 75 dB noise level runs louder than some competitor units, noticeable during operation
  • No ENERGY STAR certification indicates it doesn't meet current top-efficiency benchmarks

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in zones 4-6 with moderate heating and cooling demands who prioritize upfront affordability and simplicity over premium efficiency. Contractors installing systems in rental properties or spec homes where balanced cost and reliability matter more than cutting-edge SEER ratings.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in extremely cold climates needing high-efficiency heating, or homes on tight electrical budgets, should compare 90+ AFUE models or dual-stage cooling systems instead.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 80% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas F
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Installation

Installation favors experienced technicians familiar with Goodman systems. The horizontal orientation requires proper ductwork alignment and return-air clearance above the unit. Electrical needs are straightforward on 208/230V single-phase service with 23.9 to 40-amp breaker sizing. The included 30-foot suction line with 3/8-inch insulation and sweat fittings requires careful refrigerant line routing and pressure testing. Metal exhaust flue is mandatory for gas furnace codes.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman backs this system with a 10-year parts warranty upon online registration, covering both furnace heat exchanger and air conditioning components. This mid-range coverage protects against defects but doesn't include labor or refrigerant, which are owner responsibility. Registration is essential, so confirm the dealer completes it during installation to activate full protection.

Specifications

SKULS38783830
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU42,000
Heating BTU100,000
RefrigerantR410A
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)75
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
ConfigurationUpflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
Tonnage3.5 Ton
StyleA-Coil
Height36.25"
Width29"
Depth29"
ResourcesGoodman Installation Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Manual Goodman Warranty Information Goodman Brochure Goodman Service Instructions Goodman Kit Instructions Goodman Parts Manual 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.
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementMetal
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE80%
Blower MotorVariable Speed
Maximum CFM2000
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Energy StarNo
SEER1 (Efficiency)13
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeReciprocating
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Max Breaker Size40 amps
Min. Breaker Size23.9 amps
Valve TypeSweat
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/8"
Length30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this 3.5-ton system handle my 2,000-square-foot home? +
Generally yes for moderate climates in zones 4-6. However, proper load calculation by a licensed technician is essential. If your home has poor insulation or extreme weather exposure, you may need 4-ton capacity instead. The 42,000 BTU cooling output works well for homes with reasonable humidity control.
Can I install this myself or does it require a licensed HVAC contractor? +
Installation requires a licensed HVAC contractor in most jurisdictions. Gas furnaces demand proper venting and combustion safety testing, and refrigerant handling requires EPA certification. DIY installation voids the warranty and violates building codes. Professional installation costs $1,500 to $2,500 depending on ductwork complexity.
How does 80% AFUE compare to newer high-efficiency furnaces? +
80% AFUE is middle-of-the-road. Modern systems reach 95% AFUE, reducing annual heating costs 15 to 20 percent. Over 15 years, the upgrade to high-efficiency pays dividends in cold climates, but in moderate zones the payback stretches to 10 plus years. This unit suits budget-conscious buyers accepting higher utility bills.
Should I buy this or a variable-capacity cooling system with higher SEER? +
Single-stage cooling at 13 SEER cycles on and off, less efficient in mild weather than modulating systems at 16+ SEER. Choose 13 SEER if cooling demand is moderate and upfront cost matters. Pick variable-stage systems if you value longer equipment lifespan and lower summer electricity bills despite higher initial price.
Does the 10-year warranty cover labor if something breaks? +
No. The warranty covers parts only. Labor, refrigerant, and service calls are your responsibility. Service agreements or extended labor plans are available separately. Always register online within 30 days of installation to activate full warranty coverage on both furnace and air conditioner.

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