3.5 Ton 13 SEER 80% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This 3.5-ton Goodman system works best for homeowners upgrading from older single-stage units and contractors installing budget-conscious replacements in moderate climates. The two-stage furnace with 80,000 BTU output paired with a 13 SEER air conditioner strikes a practical balance between upfront cost and operational efficiency.

Review

The Goodman 3.5-ton split system sits squarely in the mainstream HVAC market, offering a practical upgrade path for homeowners retiring older single-stage equipment. This upflow configuration with 80,000 BTU heating capacity and 42,000 BTU cooling output addresses typical residential loads across modest-sized homes. Goodman has earned respect as a reliable workhorse brand, and this model reflects that positioning without premium pricing or cutting-edge efficiency claims.

Performance specs reveal balanced design choices. The 80% AFUE furnace with two-stage burners reduces energy waste compared to 60-65% older units, though it trails modern 95% systems. The 13 SEER air conditioner delivers respectable cooling efficiency but operates as single-stage only, meaning it cannot modulate capacity on cooler days. The high-efficiency multi-speed blower at 2000 CFM maximum airflow promotes even temperature distribution while the 75 dB noise level remains acceptable for residential spaces.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Two-stage furnace burner reduces cycling and improves comfort during mild winter days
High-efficiency multi-speed blower motor at 2000 CFM maximum handles airflow smoothly without excessive noise at 75 dB
80% AFUE rating meets federal baseline standards, saving money on gas compared to older 60% units
13 SEER cooling efficiency is respectable for a non-ENERGY STAR unit in this price range
10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection on compressor and parts
Upflow and downflow flexibility suits both basement and attic installations

Cons

80% AFUE lags behind modern 95% AFUE high-efficiency furnaces, leaving potential savings on the table
13 SEER is middle-of-the-road, not competitive with 14-16 SEER systems available at comparable price points
Single-stage condenser means the AC unit runs at full capacity even during partial-load cooling needs, wasting energy
No ENERGY STAR certification reflects efficiency ceiling that may disappoint efficiency-focused buyers

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 20-plus-year-old systems who prioritize affordability over maximum efficiency gains. Contractors servicing price-sensitive customers or rental properties where payback periods matter more than premium efficiency upgrades.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in cold climates, hot climates, or anyone with strong energy-efficiency goals should explore 95% AFUE furnaces and 14-16 SEER AC units instead.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 80% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu

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Installation

Installation complexity is moderate. The metal exhaust flue requirement is standard for gas furnaces. Electrical needs are straightforward, requiring 208/230V single-phase 60 Hz service with breaker sizing between 23.9 and 40 amps. Physical dimensions of 26 inches height, 21 inches width, and 21 inches depth fit standard closets and furnace rooms. A-coil configuration with 3/8-inch liquid valve and 7/8-inch suction line requires proper refrigerant line insulation.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts and compressor warranty covers major failures when registered online, which is becoming industry standard. This timeframe provides reasonable protection during the critical early years while falling short of some competitors offering 12-year coverage. Labor costs, refrigerant, and diagnostics typically fall outside coverage, so review the full warranty document before purchase.

Specifications

SKU	LS38783830
Brand/Manufacturer	Online Supply
Cooling BTU	42,000
Heating BTU	80,000
Refrigerant	R410A or R22
Electrical	208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	75
Weight (in lbs)	30.000000
Feature	Spec
Airflow Direction	Upflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Metal
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	80%
Blower Motor	High Efficiency Multi-Speed
Maximum CFM	2000
Configuration	Upflow / Downflow
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Gas
Height	26"
Width	21"
Depth	21"
Resources	CAPF Installation Manual CAPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil 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.
Energy Star	No
SEER1 (Efficiency)	13
Condenser Stages	Single Stage
Compressor Type	Reciprocating
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	7/8"
Liquid Valve Size	3/8"
Max Breaker Size	40 amps
Min. Breaker Size	23.9 amps
Tonnage	3.5 Ton
Valve Type	Sweat
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/8"
Length	30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will this system cost to operate compared to my old 1990s furnace? +

An 80% AFUE unit saves approximately 25-30% on heating fuel versus a 60% AFUE furnace from that era. The 13 SEER air conditioner consumes roughly 20-25% less cooling electricity than 10-11 SEER units. Actual savings depend on your climate, usage patterns, and local utility rates, but expect noticeable reductions on winter and summer bills.

Can I install this in my attic, or does it need to be in the basement? +

Yes, this unit is rated for both upflow and downflow configurations. Basement installation uses upflow orientation, while attic placement uses downflow mode. Your HVAC technician will position the furnace appropriately during installation and ensure proper ductwork connections for efficient airflow distribution throughout your home.

What's the difference between two-stage and single-stage heating? +

Two-stage burners operate at lower capacity during mild winter weather, reducing cycling and improving temperature consistency. Single-stage systems run full-blast whenever heat is needed. This furnace's two-stage design enhances comfort and slightly reduces energy consumption during shoulder seasons, though heating season savings vary by climate.

Why is this 13 SEER system less efficient than advertised 16 SEER units at similar prices? +

SEER ratings reflect laboratory conditions and paired component efficiency. Higher SEER units typically use variable-capacity compressors, enhanced coil designs, and better insulation. This system's single-stage compressor and traditional reciprocating design deliver reliable performance at lower cost, prioritizing value over maximum efficiency optimization.

Does the 10-year warranty cover labor if my compressor fails? +

No, the 10-year warranty covers the compressor and parts only. Labor costs for replacement service calls are the customer's responsibility. Review your complete warranty document from Online Supply to understand exactly what expenses you'll owe if repairs become necessary.

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