3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This Goodman system is ideal for homeowners upgrading older equipment in homes with space constraints, particularly those with attic or basement installations requiring horizontal orientation. The 96% AFUE efficiency keeps heating costs down, while the 13 SEER cooling performance handles moderate climates effectively.

Review

The Goodman 3.5-ton horizontal furnace and air conditioner combination represents solid mid-market equipment for residential HVAC replacement projects. With an 80,000 BTU heating capacity and 42,000 BTU cooling output, this unit handles typical single-family homes effectively. Goodman has built a reputation for delivering reliable, no-frills equipment at competitive pricing, and this system continues that tradition. The horizontal configuration opens installation possibilities that vertical units simply cannot match.

Performance metrics tell a straightforward story. The 96% AFUE rating is genuinely impressive for gas heating, translating to minimal fuel waste and lower monthly bills compared to baseline equipment. The 13 SEER cooling efficiency sits in the middle range, adequate for moderate climates but not exceptional. The reciprocating compressor and single-stage burner design means straightforward operation without modulation complexity. Multi-speed blower capability at 1,600 CFM maximum airflow allows some comfort customization. Electrical requirements are reasonable at 208/230V single-phase 60Hz with a 40-amp breaker maximum.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Excellent 96% AFUE efficiency reduces heating costs by 30-40% compared to older systems
Horizontal configuration works perfectly for attics, basements, and tight crawl spaces
Multi-speed blower motor adjusts airflow for comfort and efficiency optimization
PVC/plastic exhaust flue simplifies installation and avoids corrosion issues
10-year warranty with online registration provides solid long-term protection

Cons

Single-stage burner and compressor cannot modulate, meaning less precise temperature control than two-stage units
13 SEER is competent but not premium, missing ENERGY STAR certification entirely
75 dBA noise level is audible during operation, slightly louder than quieter competitors

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climate zones replacing 15+ year old systems who value upfront savings and have horizontal installation spaces available. Contractors installing baseline equipment for cost-conscious customers will appreciate the straightforward single-stage design and proven Goodman reliability.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in hot climates needing maximum cooling efficiency, buyers prioritizing ultra-quiet operation, or homes requiring modulating heat for precise temperature control should consider higher SEER units or two-stage alternatives.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu

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Installation

Installation complexity is moderate and contractor-friendly. The horizontal A-coil design requires proper condensate drainage and support framing, but the compact 21 by 21.125 by 26 inch footprint fits tight spaces easily. PVC flue venting simplifies exhaust routing compared to metal alternatives. Refrigerant line sizing with 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction ports uses standard fittings. Most experienced HVAC technicians complete installation in 4-6 hours including ductwork connections.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides a solid 10-year parts warranty when you complete online registration, which takes five minutes and is non-negotiable. This covers compressor, heat exchanger, and coil failures at no cost during the coverage period. Labor is homeowner responsibility. The warranty is transferable if you sell the home, adding resale value confidence.

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	Downflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Plastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	96%
Blower Motor	Multi Speed
Maximum CFM	1600
Configuration	Horizontal
Flue Location	Right
Burner Stages	Single
Fuel Type	Gas
Height	21"
Width	21.125"
Depth	26"
Resources	CHPF Installation Manual CHPF 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

Is 13 SEER good enough for my climate? +

13 SEER works well in moderate climates with 100-150 cooling days annually. Hot climates with extended 200+ day summers will see noticeably higher electricity costs. Compare against 14-15 SEER units if you experience intense heat regularly. Your local utility rebates may favor higher efficiency anyway.

Can I install this in my attic with limited space? +

Absolutely. The horizontal configuration and compact dimensions (21 x 21.125 x 26 inches) fit most attic joists and crawl spaces. Verify PVC venting clearance to roof and condensate drain accessibility before ordering. The 30-pound weight allows single-person handling through typical attic access points.

How does 96% AFUE compare to newer systems? +

96% AFUE is at the top of gas furnace efficiency. Most new systems range 80-96% AFUE, so this represents peak performance. You'll see 20-30% heating cost reduction versus 80% AFUE equipment common in homes built before 2010.

Should I choose this over a two-stage Goodman unit? +

Single-stage equipment cycles on and off fully, while two-stage modulates output. Single-stage costs less upfront and suits mild climates with less temperature swinging. Two-stage provides finer control for comfort but costs 15-25% more. Consider your region's temperature variability.

What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +

Parts coverage on compressor, heat exchanger, coil, and most internal components with valid online registration. Labor and refrigerant are excluded. You pay service calls, but parts replacement costs nothing. Transferable to next owner if you sell.

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