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

// Bottom Line

This 3.5 ton Goodman system works well for homeowners replacing older equipment in moderate climates who want solid efficiency without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace and 13 SEER AC coil combination handles typical residential loads effectively, though it won't deliver cutting-edge performance of higher-tier units.

Review

The Goodman 3.5 ton gas furnace and air conditioner system is a mainstream choice for residential HVAC replacements. Positioned as a reliable, cost-effective solution, it combines an 80,000 BTU furnace with a matching 42,000 BTU cooling coil in an upflow A-coil configuration. Goodman's reputation for durability and affordability makes this system attractive to homeowners and contractors alike, though it competes in the value segment rather than premium market.

Performance-wise, the 96% AFUE furnace efficiency is genuinely impressive for heating season, translating to lower gas bills compared to 80-90% alternatives. The 13 SEER air conditioner delivers mid-tier cooling efficiency using R410A refrigerant and a single-stage reciprocating compressor. The multi-speed blower reaches 1600 CFM maximum airflow, allowing the system to modulate comfort without full-capacity cycling. These specs indicate solid engineering without bells and whistles.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs meaningfully compared to 80-90% units
13 SEER cooling meets mid-range efficiency standards and qualifies for some utility rebates
Multi-speed blower motor adjusts airflow from 0-1600 CFM for comfort and efficiency
Single-stage reciprocating compressor is proven durable with straightforward service requirements
10-year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage for parts and labor

Cons

Single-stage compressor and AC mean no modulation or variable capacity for part-load efficiency
75 dB sound level is audible during operation, louder than variable-capacity alternatives
R410A or R22 refrigerant compatibility may limit future upgrades as R22 phases out

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 15-20 year old systems who prioritize value and reliability over premium features. Contractors installing equipment in residential homes where budget constraints prevent high-end systems but efficiency and durability matter.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in very cold regions needing sustained heating output or those seeking ENERGY STAR certification and variable-stage technology should consider alternatives.

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

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Installation

Installation requires standard HVAC practices. The 3/8 inch suction line accepts 3/8 inch insulation thickness, and liquid lines are 3/8 inch with sweat-type valves. PVC or plastic exhaust flue is required with the right-side flue location. Electrical needs are modest at 115V, 1-phase, 60 Hz, requiring a 23.9 to 40-amp breaker. Most qualified contractors handle this in one to two days.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides a 10-year parts and labor warranty upon online registration. This is above-average coverage for mid-tier equipment and reflects confidence in the reciprocating compressor's longevity. Registration is required to activate the warranty, so homeowners must follow through at installation. The warranty covers manufacturing defects but excludes wear and maintenance.

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	Upflow/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

How does 13 SEER compare to newer SEER2 ratings? +

13 SEER is the older rating standard. SEER2 typically scores 15-20% lower numerically on the same unit due to stricter test conditions. This system likely rates around 10-11 SEER2, still solid but not premium-tier. Check local rebate programs for eligibility based on SEER, not SEER2.

Will this system work with my existing ductwork? +

Most likely yes. The upflow A-coil configuration fits standard trunk-and-branch ducts. Max CFM of 1600 suits typical 3.5 ton home layouts. Have an HVAC technician measure your existing ducts for static pressure and CFM delivery. Undersized ducts reduce efficiency and comfort significantly.

Is single-stage cooling a limitation for efficiency? +

Yes, compared to variable-capacity systems. Single-stage runs full-blast or off, cycling on and off. Two-stage or variable systems modulate capacity, reducing runtime and energy. For moderate climates with mild shoulder seasons, single-stage cycling is acceptable, but multi-stage performs better overall.

How does this compare to Lennox or Carrier systems at similar price points? +

Goodman emphasizes value and durability over advanced features. Lennox and Carrier often include variable-stage technology and quieter operation at higher costs. This Goodman delivers comparable efficiency ratings with simpler mechanics, trading noise and modulation flexibility for lower upfront investment and service simplicity.

What does 10-year warranty actually cover? +

Parts and labor for manufacturing defects when registered online. Does not include refrigerant, routine maintenance, or wear items. Covers compressor failures, coil leaks, and motor issues. Always get warranty details in writing before installation.

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