3.5 Ton 13 SEER 80% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This Goodman system works best for budget-conscious homeowners replacing an older unit or contractors building rental properties where upfront cost matters more than premium efficiency. The 80% AFUE and 13 SEER ratings deliver respectable performance without premium pricing.

Review

Goodman's 3.5-ton upflow system targets cost-conscious buyers seeking reliable heating and cooling without premium pricing. This single-stage condenser unit delivers 42,000 BTU cooling paired with 100,000 BTU heating capacity, covering typical residential needs. The 13 SEER rating meets modern efficiency standards, while the 80% AFUE furnace provides straightforward gas heating. Online Supply positions this as a practical mid-market option for replacement installations where budget constraints exist.

The two-stage burner system with high-efficiency multi-speed blower provides temperature stability and reduces cycling losses. Maximum CFM reaches 2000, adequate for proper air distribution in average 3-4 bedroom homes. The reciprocating compressor and R410A refrigerant combination demonstrates proven durability across diverse climates. However, 80% AFUE efficiency ranks below current premium offerings at 95%+ AFUE, costing roughly $300-500 more annually in fuel compared to condensing furnaces.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Two-stage burner with high-efficiency multi-speed blower maximizes heating comfort and reduces short cycling
13 SEER cooling efficiency meets modern baseline standards for reasonable operating costs
Compact footprint at 30 inches tall fits most basement and closet installations
10-year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage for parts and labor
R410A refrigerant and reciprocating compressor offer proven reliability across climates

Cons

80% AFUE is baseline efficiency, not competitive with 95%+ AFUE premium units that save $300-500 annually
Single-stage condenser limits cooling modulation, less efficient than two-stage units in mild weather
75 dB noise level runs noticeably louder than high-efficiency competitors, noticeable in quiet homes
Not Energy Star certified, meaning no utility rebates available in many regions

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 15-plus-year-old systems where monthly savings matter less than initial investment. Landlords and property flippers who prioritize affordability and basic reliability over premium efficiency ratings.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in cold climates who runs heating heavily should compare 95% AFUE units, as payback occurs in 5-7 years. Homeowners seeking Energy Star rebates or lowest operating costs should explore higher-efficiency alternatives.

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

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Installation

This upflow configuration requires 30-inch height clearance and fits standard basement/closet spaces measuring 21 by 21 inches. Metal exhaust flue venting and 208/230V single-phase 60Hz electrical service are mandatory. Professional installation should verify 23.9-40 amp breaker sizing and proper refrigerant linesets with 3/8-inch insulation. Most qualified HVAC contractors complete installation within one service day.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts warranty activates with online registration, covering compressor and internal components. Labor coverage typically follows manufacturer guidelines, though specific labor terms depend on your dealer. This warranty aligns with industry baseline, offering solid protection without the extended coverage available on higher-priced systems. Registration is straightforward and critical for claims.

Specifications

SKU	LS38783830
Brand/Manufacturer	Online Supply
Cooling BTU	42,000
Heating BTU	100,000
Refrigerant	R410A
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	30"
Width	21"
Depth	21"
Resources	CAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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	5 Ton
Valve Type	Sweat
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/8"
Length	30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this system right for my 2500-square-foot home? +

The 3.5-ton capacity and 42,000 BTU cooling handle homes up to approximately 3500 square feet in moderate climates. Verify actual load calculations with your installer, as insulation, climate zone, and window quality significantly impact performance requirements.

What's the difference between this 80% AFUE unit and a 95% AFUE condenser furnace? +

Condensing furnaces capture exhaust heat, reaching 95% AFUE and saving 15% on heating fuel annually. A $2500-3500 premium pays back in 5-7 years through lower gas bills, making it worthwhile for northern climates with high heating seasons.

Will this qualify for utility rebates? +

No, this system lacks Energy Star certification, disqualifying it from many utility incentive programs. Some regions offer modest rebates for SEER 13+ cooling, so contact your local utility to confirm eligibility before purchasing.

How does the 13 SEER rating compare to newer units? +

13 SEER represents mid-range efficiency, typical of 2015-era equipment. Modern systems achieve 16-21 SEER with variable-capacity compressors. The difference shows in mild-weather months where premium units modulate more efficiently, reducing unnecessary runtime.

Can this unit handle cold climates like Minnesota or Canada? +

The 100,000 BTU capacity handles standard heating loads, but 80% AFUE furnaces underperform long-term in extreme cold. Contractors in sub-zero regions typically recommend 95%+ AFUE for better efficiency during extended heating seasons.

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