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

// Bottom Line

This system works best for homeowners replacing older units who want solid efficiency gains without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace paired with 13 SEER cooling makes it a practical middle-ground choice for moderate climates where both heating and cooling matter.

Review

Goodman's 3.5 ton combo system represents the practical middle tier of residential HVAC equipment. This upflow A-coil unit pairs an 80,000 BTU gas furnace with a 42,000 BTU cooling capacity, making it suitable for moderate-sized homes in mixed climates. As a major OEM (original equipment manufacturer) product sold through Online Supply, it balances proven reliability with accessible pricing for contractors and homeowners alike.

The furnace delivers 96% AFUE efficiency, a significant step above legacy equipment still running at 78-85% efficiency. Cooling performance reaches 13 SEER, which meets current efficiency standards without the premium cost of 15+ SEER units. The multi-speed blower motor adapts to heating and cooling demands, and maximum airflow reaches 2000 CFM. However, single-stage operation means the compressor runs at full capacity rather than modulating, which can waste energy during mild weather transitions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-85% units still in service
13 SEER cooling rating meets modern efficiency standards at reasonable cost
Multi-speed blower motor adjusts airflow for better comfort and efficiency throughout the day
A-coil configuration with upflow design fits most standard installations without major ductwork changes
10-year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage for parts and labor

Cons

Single-stage compressor cycles on and off rather than modulating, reducing efficiency in mild weather
Reciprocating compressor is noisier than scroll designs, producing 75 dBA during operation
Not ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it meets baseline efficiency but offers no premium recognition
Single-stage burner provides full heating output with no partial-load operation for efficiency

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners with existing upflow furnace installations in moderate climates who need both heating and cooling replacement. Contractors upgrading systems where cost control matters and clients don't need variable-speed technology.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in extreme climates requiring frequent partial-load operation, buyers prioritizing quiet operation, or those seeking ENERGY STAR premium efficiency ratings.

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

Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

This upflow configuration fits standard closet and basement installations with minimal ductwork modification. Electrical requirements demand 115V single-phase 60Hz service with breaker capacity between 23.9 and 40 amps, typical for most homes. PVC flue venting simplifies exhaust installation compared to older masonry requirements. The unit weighs 30 pounds and measures 34.5 inches tall by 21 inches wide by 28.75 inches deep.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman backs this system with a 10-year warranty when registered online after installation. This coverage protects against manufacturing defects in parts and includes labor replacement during the warranty period. Registration is mandatory to activate full coverage, and homeowners should keep documentation for any service claims.

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	5 Ton
Valve Type	Sweat
Height	34.5"
Width	21"
Depth	28.75"
Resources	Goodman Brochure Goodman Installation Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman Warranty You will need AdobeÂ® AcrobatÂ® 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.
Configuration	Upflow/Horizontal
Style	A-Coil
Airflow Direction	Upflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Plastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	96%
Blower Motor	Multi Speed
Maximum CFM	2000
Flue Location	Right
Burner Stages	Single
Fuel Type	Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/8"
Length	30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between 13 SEER and higher-rated systems? +

13 SEER represents current baseline efficiency. 15-16 SEER systems use variable-speed compressors and advanced controls costing 20-30% more upfront. For moderate climates with modest cooling loads, the 13 SEER performance difference may not justify the premium, typically recovering costs only after 10-12 years.

Will this fit my existing furnace location and ducts? +

Upflow A-coil design matches most standard installations. The 34.5-inch height fits typical closets, and the sweat valve connections work with existing copper lines. However, your HVAC contractor must verify cabinet space, airflow clearance, and compatibility with your return ductwork before ordering.

How much will heating and cooling costs drop? +

A 96% AFUE furnace saves roughly 15-20% on heating costs versus an 80% AFUE unit. The 13 SEER cooling provides similar gains over older 10 SEER systems. Actual savings depend on local energy rates, climate, and usage patterns, ranging from 200-400 dollars annually for most homes.

Is single-stage operation a real efficiency problem? +

Single-stage compressors cycle fully on and off, creating short cycles during mild weather that reduce part-load efficiency. Variable-stage systems modulate output, saving 10-15% on cooling costs in spring and fall. For southern climates with extended cooling seasons, the difference matters less than for northern mixed-climate homes.

Does online registration for warranty really matter? +

Yes, absolutely. Goodman requires registration within a specified period after installation to activate the 10-year coverage. Without it, warranty coverage drops to a shorter period. Keep your receipt and installation date, then register through Goodman's website immediately.

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