Review
The Goodman 3.5 Ton system represents a middle-ground approach to residential HVAC replacement, balancing cost containment with Energy Star compliance. Goodman remains one of the most widely stocked brands in contractor inventories, ensuring parts availability and service technician familiarity across most markets. This upflow configuration suits homes with basement or utility room placement, where the 30-inch height and 24.5-inch width fit standard utility closet openings. The system arrives pre-charged and ready for experienced installers, reducing complexity compared to split systems requiring field brazing.
Performance metrics show the furnace delivers 42,000 BTU heating output at 80% AFUE efficiency, meeting minimum code requirements without premium efficiency gains. The AC side operates at 16 SEER2, outperforming the 14 SEER rating claimed in the title, delivering 42,000 BTU cooling capacity. The scroll compressor handles single-stage operation, running full capacity or off with no intermediate modulation. The multi-speed PSC blower motor adjusts airflow between heating and cooling modes, reaching 2000 CFM maximum. Electrical requirements are moderate at 208/230V single-phase 60Hz, needing 22.4 to 35-amp breaker sizing depending on final installation configuration.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 16 SEER2 AC efficiency rating exceeds the 14 SEER spec claim, delivering better cooling performance than advertised
- 80% AFUE furnace heating efficiency meets code minimums and carries Energy Star certification
- Multi-speed PSC blower motor delivers variable airflow up to 2000 CFM for balanced heating and cooling
- Scroll compressor provides proven durability with single-stage operation requiring minimal maintenance
- 10-year warranty with online registration offers solid coverage at this price point
- Compact dimensions (30 inches height, 24.5 inches width) fit tight utility closets and basement spaces
Cons
- Single-stage burner and compressor lack modulating capability, reducing part-load efficiency in mild weather
- 80% AFUE is baseline efficiency, missing opportunities for 90%+ systems that reduce heating costs over time
- 73 dB noise level runs louder than variable-stage competitors, noticeable during cooling cycles
- Metal exhaust flue requirement adds installation cost and limits placement flexibility in some homes
- Spec discrepancy between title (14 SEER, 3.5 tons) and actual data (16 SEER, 5 tons) creates buyer confusion
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates upgrading 15+ year old systems who value Goodman's parts availability and contractor support network. Budget-conscious buyers accepting mid-tier efficiency in exchange for proven reliability and straightforward service.
Consider Alternatives If
High-efficiency seekers in cold climates should explore 90%+ AFUE furnaces, while those in hot regions may benefit from variable-stage cooling compressors that reduce runtime noise and energy use.
Installation
Installation requires metal exhaust flue routing from the furnace top outlet, adding complexity in homes lacking existing venting paths. The R410A refrigerant lines use standard sweat connections, 3/8-inch liquid and 1 1/8-inch suction sizing with 50-foot maximum run length. Suction line insulation thickness of 1/2 inch prevents condensation and heat gain. Technicians must follow CAPF installation manual requirements for proper charging and airflow setup. Upflow/horizontal configuration limits placement to basement or horizontal crawlspace applications.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman includes a 10-year parts warranty with online registration, covering compressor and heating elements across the coverage period. This warranty is transferable to second owners, protecting investment if you sell the home. Coverage does not include refrigerant loss or damage from improper installation, so hiring certified technicians during replacement is essential. Evaporator coil carries separate manufacturer warranty documentation included with the purchase.
Specifications
| SKU | LS381183850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 42,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| 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 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Metal |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 80% |
| Blower Motor | Multi Speed - PSC |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Top |
| Burner Stages | Single |
| Fuel Type | 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. |
| 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 |
| 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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