Review
The Goodman 3.5 ton upflow system sits in the middle tier of residential HVAC equipment, offering respectable efficiency and dependable operation without luxury pricing. This unit combines a high-efficiency furnace, variable-speed blower, and scroll compressor in a compact A-coil configuration. SKU LS381183850 carries an AHRI certificate and ENERGY STAR status, signaling compliance with current efficiency standards. The system accepts both natural gas and propane fuel, making it adaptable to regional infrastructure and existing home setups.
Performance specifications show a 120,000 BTU furnace firing at 96% AFUE, among the highest for non-condensing residential units. The furnace uses a two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower reaching 2,000 CFM maximum, enabling better modulation than single-stage competitors. Cooling delivers 42,000 BTU at 15 SEER and 16 SEER1 using a scroll compressor and R410A or R22 refrigerant. These numbers indicate solid mid-range performance, though cooling efficiency lags premium units hitting 20 SEER2. Electrical requirements run 208-230V single phase, standard for residential installations.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces natural gas or propane consumption significantly compared to 80-90% models
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adapts to heating and cooling loads, improving comfort and reducing runtime
- Two-stage burner provides modulation for more precise temperature control and lower short-cycling losses
- ENERGY STAR certified system qualifies for utility rebates in many regions, offsetting equipment cost
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor on major components
Cons
- SEER1 rating of 16 trails modern high-efficiency units at 18-20 SEER2, so cooling efficiency gains are modest
- 73 dBA noise level is moderate, noticeable during operation, especially in quieter homes or bedrooms
- SKU discrepancy shows 3.5 ton in title but specs list 5 ton capacity, creating confusion on actual system size
Who Should Buy
Best For
This system fits homeowners in colder climates where heating dominates annual runtime and the 96% AFUE pays back quickly. Contractors valuing balanced performance, proven Goodman reliability, and straightforward installation will appreciate the ECM blower and dual-stage burner without complexity.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in hot climates prioritizing cooling efficiency or noise-sensitive applications should evaluate higher SEER2 units or quieter models, as the 73 dBA output and modest cooling specs don't lead the category.
Installation
Installation requires 208/230V single-phase power with a 23.5 to 40 amp breaker sized appropriately. The furnace accepts plastic or PVC exhaust flue, simplifying venting versus metal ducts. Dimensions measuring 30 inches tall, 24.5 inches wide, and 21 inches deep fit standard utility closets and basement alcoves. Suction and liquid lines measure 1 1/8 inches and 3/8 inches respectively, with 1/2 inch insulation thickness on the suction side. Technicians familiar with Goodman equipment will find the layout and connections straightforward.
Warranty & Reliability
The unit includes a 10-year parts and labor warranty upon online registration, covering the furnace, coil, and compressor. This duration exceeds typical five-year limited warranties and provides meaningful protection against manufacturing defects. Registration is straightforward and unlocks full coverage. Coverage terms apply to original installation and typical residential use, so verify terms for commercial or secondary applications.
Specifications
| SKU | LS381183850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 120,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A or R22 |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 48.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368842 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| 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. |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 16 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 40 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 23.5 amps |
| Tonnage | 5 Ton |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 1 1/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 1/2" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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