Review
The Goodman 3.5-ton gas furnace and air conditioner system at $647 occupies a sweet spot in the budget HVAC market. This upflow configuration is designed for basements and crawl spaces in homes up to roughly 3,500 square feet. Goodman has built its reputation on delivering functional, no-frills equipment that contractors trust. At this price, you're not getting premium features, but you're getting proven technology that handles heating and cooling without breaking the bank.
The furnace delivers impressive heating efficiency at 96% AFUE, converting 96 cents of every dollar of gas into usable heat. The cooling side provides 42,000 BTU output with a 14 SEER rating. The two-stage burner automatically adjusts flame height based on heating demand, reducing short-cycling and energy waste during mild weather. The multi-speed ECM blower motor ramps from idle to 1,600 CFM as needed, allowing the system to deliver comfort without constant full-speed operation that wastes electricity.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency exceeds most competitors in this price range, reducing heating costs significantly
- 14 SEER cooling with 42,000 BTU capacity handles typical 3.5-ton residential loads effectively
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow between 0-1,600 CFM for comfort and energy savings
- Two-stage burner allows modulation during mild weather, improving efficiency and reducing cycling
- PVC flue compatibility simplifies venting in modern homes and reduces installation costs
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection at this price point
- Energy Star certified equipment qualifies buyers for utility rebates in many regions
Cons
- 14 SEER rating is competitive but not exceptional, newer systems reach 16-18 SEER
- 73 dB noise level runs slightly louder than premium models, noticeable during operation
- Single-stage condenser limits cooling modulation compared to two-stage alternatives
- R410A/R22 refrigerant compatibility adds complexity if transitioning between generations
- No variable-speed compressor means less precise temperature control than inverter-driven units
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners and contractors working with tight budgets who need reliable heating and cooling for 3,000-3,500 square foot homes. This system makes particular sense if you're replacing a 10-15 year old unit and want measurable efficiency gains without spending $3,500+.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in extreme climates, those seeking maximum efficiency, or anyone prioritizing whisper-quiet operation should explore higher SEER units or variable-capacity systems.
Installation
Installation is straightforward for experienced technicians. The upflow configuration requires proper ductwork orientation and the PVC flue simplifies venting compared to metal exhaust pipes. You'll need 208/230V single-phase power with breaker capacity between 23.5-40 amps. Standard copper refrigerant lines and thermostat wiring apply. Most contractors complete installation in 4-6 hours including startup and commissioning.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year parts warranty with online registration is solid for this price tier. Goodman's warranty covers compressor failure, heat exchanger defects, and blower motor problems. You must register within 30 days of installation to activate coverage. Labor is not included, so budget for service calls if repairs become necessary after the first year.
Specifications
| SKU | LS381183850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| 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 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| 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. |
| 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 | 3.5 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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