Review
The Goodman 3.5 ton downflow system arrives as a no-frills workhorse combining gas heating and air conditioning in one package. Marketed as a budget-friendly upgrade path, this unit targets contractors and homeowners replacing failed equipment without budget for premium brands. The downflow configuration and A-coil design accommodate tight installation spaces where traditional upflow systems won't fit. At the mid-market tier, Goodman's reputation centers on straightforward reliability rather than advanced features.
Performance numbers tell a practical story. The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU heating output at 96% AFUE efficiency, meaning 96 cents of every fuel dollar converts to usable heat instead of venting away. The AC side produces 42,000 BTU cooling at 13 SEER, translating to moderate energy consumption for homes averaging 3,000 to 3,500 square feet. The reciprocating compressor operates single-stage, running full-capacity during cooling calls, which keeps costs down but sacrifices the part-load efficiency gains of variable-speed designs.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% units
- 13 SEER cooling rating meets mid-tier efficiency standards for reasonable energy bills
- 3.5 ton capacity handles most single-family homes with consistent 42,000 BTU cooling output
- Multi-speed blower motor adjusts airflow for comfort and efficiency across load conditions
- Downflow/horizontal configuration fits tight utility closets and basement installations
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers both furnace and AC components
Cons
- Single-stage compressor runs full capacity constantly, missing efficiency gains of variable-speed models
- Not Energy Star certified, so federal tax credits may be unavailable in your jurisdiction
- 75 dB noise level acceptable but louder than inverter-driven units during cooling cycles
- Reciprocating compressor has shorter lifespan than scroll compressors in high-runtime environments
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates replacing systems that are 15+ years old will appreciate the efficiency upgrade without paying premium prices. Contractors installing rental properties or spec homes benefit from reliable performance and straightforward servicing at competitive costs.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in extreme climates with intensive heating or cooling seasons should consider variable-speed models, and those prioritizing minimal noise should explore scroll compressor alternatives.
Installation
Installation requires standard HVAC connections with 3/8 inch liquid line and 7/8 inch suction line refrigerant piping. The system needs 115V, single-phase 60Hz power with 23.9 to 40 amp breaker sizing. Plastic or PVC exhaust flue ties into the right-side flue location. The 26 inch height, 21 inch width and depth fit standard utility closet footprints. Most installations complete in one day for experienced technicians.
Warranty & Reliability
Online registration activates a 10-year parts warranty covering the furnace heat exchanger, compressor, and coil failures. This extended coverage ranks above many competitors at this price point. Warranty claims require proof of purchase and professional installation. The coverage excludes wear items like blower motors and capacitors, which typically fail after 10-15 years of use anyway.
Specifications
| SKU | LS38783830 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A or R22 |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 75 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 30.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| 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 |
| 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. |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi Speed |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Single |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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