Review
The Goodman 3.5 Ton split system occupies the practical middle ground in residential HVAC. This combination furnace and condensing unit targets contractors and homeowners who need straightforward equipment without premium pricing. Goodman's reputation for basic reliability, combined with accessible pricing and rebate eligibility, explains its widespread presence in residential replacements. However, the spec sheet reveals some inconsistencies worth investigating before purchase.
The cooling side delivers 42,000 BTU and achieves 16 SEER efficiency using R410A refrigerant, qualifying for ENERGY STAR status. The furnace generates 100,000 BTU heating output at 80% AFUE, with a two-stage burner for modulation control. The 73 dB noise level represents acceptable performance for residential settings. The multi-speed blower handles up to 2,000 CFM, enabling better airflow management than fixed-capacity alternatives. These numbers position the system as competent, though not exceptional.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 16 SEER cooling efficiency with R410A refrigerant meets modern standards and earns ENERGY STAR certification
- Two-stage burner furnace reaches 100,000 BTU heating output, suitable for cold climates and larger homes
- Multi-speed blower motor with 2,000 CFM maximum capacity allows better comfort control than single-speed alternatives
- Scroll compressor design offers reliability and quieter operation at 73 dB
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid consumer protection
Cons
- 80% AFUE furnace efficiency lags behind 95%+ AFUE condensing models, costing $200-400 annually in wasted fuel
- Single-stage cooling compressor cycles on/off rather than modulating, reducing efficiency and comfort in mild weather
- 5-ton capacity creates oversizing mismatch with stated 3.5-ton rating, raising questions about application accuracy
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates upgrading from 10-15 year old systems who prioritize upfront affordability over long-term operating costs. This system makes sense when rebates reduce the total investment and your home doesn't experience extreme temperature swings.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in cold climates should seek 95%+ AFUE furnaces, and efficiency-focused buyers should compare variable-speed compressor units despite higher initial costs.
Installation
Installation requires 120V single-phase 60Hz power with 22.4 to 35-amp breaker sizing. The A-coil upflow configuration suits most residential attics and basements. You'll need 50 feet of pre-insulated suction line (1 1/8 inch) and 3/8 inch liquid line with 1/2 inch insulation. Metal exhaust flue is mandatory. Professional installation is strongly recommended for proper refrigerant charging and airflow balancing.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this system with a 10-year parts warranty when you register online, covering compressor and furnace components. This is solid for the price tier but standard across the mid-range market. Registration is mandatory, so complete it immediately upon installation to avoid coverage gaps.
Specifications
| SKU | LS381183850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A or R22 |
| Electrical | 120 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 48.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 16 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 35 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 22.4 amps |
| Tonnage | 5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 30" |
| 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 | Metal |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 80% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| 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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