Review
The Goodman 3.5 Ton system represents a solid midrange choice in the residential HVAC market, combining a high-efficiency gas furnace with an air conditioning condenser in one package. Goodman has built its reputation on delivering reliable equipment at competitive prices, though not always with industry-leading features. This upflow configuration suits homes with basements or crawl spaces, and the compact 21x21x30 inch footprint works in tighter mechanical rooms. At $0 listed price, the actual cost remains unclear, but typical Goodman combos in this class run $2,500-$3,500 before installation labor.
The furnace side impresses with 96% AFUE efficiency and 42,000 BTU output, backed by a multi-speed blower that reduces runtime cycling. The cooling side delivers 42,000 BTU with a 16 SEER rating and ENERGY STAR certification, using R410A refrigerant with a scroll compressor. However, serious spec conflicts undermine confidence: the product claims both 3.5 ton and 5 ton capacity, and matched 42,000 BTU for heating and cooling suggests potential undersizing or mislabeling. Contractors must verify actual tonnage and capacity before installation to ensure proper home sizing.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency qualifies for most utility rebates and reduces heating costs significantly
- Multi-speed blower motor adapts to different heating and cooling demands throughout the year
- ENERGY STAR certified system meets federal efficiency standards with 16 SEER rating
- PVC flue compatible, which reduces installation complexity and material costs compared to metal venting
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides decent long-term protection
Cons
- Critical spec conflict: listed as both 3.5 ton and 5 ton, with mismatched BTU ratings (42,000 heating vs 42,000 cooling) that don't align properly
- Single-stage cooling compressor less efficient than two-stage units at partial loads, wastes energy on milder days
- 73 dBA noise level is louder than quieter premium systems, potentially noticeable in living spaces near the unit
- No pricing listed despite product being featured, making value comparison impossible
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in HVAC zones 4-6 with moderate climate demands who value reliability over cutting-edge efficiency and have tight installation budgets. Budget-conscious renovators replacing older single-stage systems will see real utility savings from the 96% furnace.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in very hot climates (zones 8+) needing strong cooling performance should look at two-stage compressors, and those in cold climates should verify the heating capacity issue before ordering.
Installation
This upflow unit requires PVC or plastic flue venting, eliminating expensive metal chimney work and simplifying installation in many homes. Electrical needs are straightforward: 208/230V single-phase 60 Hz with breaker sizing between 22.4 and 35 amps. Refrigerant lines use standard 3/8 inch liquid and 1 1/8 inch suction connections with 1/2 inch insulation and 50-foot maximum length. Professional HVAC installation is mandatory due to refrigerant handling requirements and safety protocols.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides 10 years of parts coverage when you register online, a reasonable protection period that covers major component failures during the system's prime years. Evaporator coil carries its own extended warranty terms. This is respectable for the price point, though premium brands sometimes offer 12-15 years. Registration is required to activate coverage, so don't skip that step after installation.
Specifications
| SKU | LS381183850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 42,000 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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. |
| 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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