3.5 Ton 15 SEER 80% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This Goodman system works well for homeowners upgrading from older equipment who want reliable performance without premium pricing. The 16 SEER rating and Energy Star certification deliver measurable savings on cooling costs, though the 80% AFUE furnace is middle-of-the-road for heating efficiency.

Review

This Goodman gas furnace and air conditioner combo addresses a specific market need: reliable equipment at mid-tier pricing for homeowners ready to upgrade. The system pairs an 80% AFUE gas furnace rated for 100,000 BTU heating output with a 42,000 BTU cooling coil. It's designed for upflow installation in standard residential applications. Goodman's reputation centers on durability rather than cutting-edge features, making this a practical choice for contractors and DIY installers seeking familiar technology that performs predictably.

Cooling performance impresses slightly with a SEER1 rating of 16, exceeding the advertised 15 SEER specification and confirming Energy Star qualification. The single-stage scroll compressor handles full-load cooling efficiently but cannot modulate output like inverter compressors. Heating relies on two-stage burner modulation to maintain comfort without excessive cycling. The high-efficiency multi-speed blower motor delivers up to 2000 CFM, accommodating typical residential ductwork. At 73 dB, noise output sits in the normal range but remains noticeable during peak operation compared to premium quiet-model competitors.

Pros & Cons

Pros

SEER1 rating of 16 exceeds the stated 15 SEER, delivering better cooling efficiency than advertised
Two-stage burner provides modulating heat output, reducing temperature swings and improving comfort
High-efficiency multi-speed blower motor optimizes airflow across 2000 CFM maximum capacity
Scroll compressor is proven technology with good reliability track record in residential applications
Energy Star qualified for both cooling and heating, qualifying buyers for potential utility rebates
50-foot suction line with 1/2-inch insulation supports flexible installation layouts

Cons

80% AFUE furnace lags behind modern high-efficiency units (90%+ AFUE) by 10-15 points, costing more to operate long-term
Single-stage air conditioner compressor cannot modulate cooling capacity, unlike variable-speed alternatives
73 dB noise level is audible and slightly louder than premium quiet models during operation
Tonnage mismatch: system labeled 3.5 ton but specs show 5 ton unit, creating confusion about true capacity

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing 10+ year old systems who want ENERGY STAR efficiency at reasonable cost, especially those in moderate climates where heating demands don't justify premium AFUE ratings. Contractors installing in upflow configurations for standard residential ducting also benefit from the straightforward A-coil design.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in cold climates needing maximum heating efficiency or those prioritizing ultra-quiet operation should explore variable-speed compressors and 95% AFUE furnaces instead.

3.5 Ton 15 SEER 80% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas F

Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Upflow configuration suits basement or closet installation with standard return plenums. The A-coil design requires 21-inch width and 30-inch height clearance. The 50-foot suction line with proper 1/2-inch insulation minimizes heat gain and supports longer runs between indoor and outdoor units. Requires 120V single-phase 60Hz power with 23.5 to 40 amp breaker sizing. Metal exhaust flue mandatory for gas furnace operation. Standard refrigerant lines and electrical connections follow R410A protocols.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10 years parts warranty with online registration, standard for this equipment class. Coverage applies to compressor, heat exchanger, and major components. Evaporator coil carries separate Goodman warranty as noted in documentation. Registration requirement means buyers must complete paperwork to activate coverage. This warranty length matches competitor offerings but falls short of extended options available from premium brands.

Specifications

SKU	LS381183850
Brand/Manufacturer	Online Supply
Cooling BTU	42,000
Heating BTU	100,000
Refrigerant	R410A
Electrical	120 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	73
Weight (in lbs)	48.000000
Feature	Spec
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	40 amps
Min. Breaker Size	23.5 amps
Tonnage	5 Ton
Height	30"
Width	21"
Depth	21"
Resources	CAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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	High Efficiency 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

Why does the product title say 3.5 ton but specs list 5 ton tonnage? +

This appears to be a labeling inconsistency. The 42,000 BTU cooling capacity and 100,000 BTU heating output align more closely with a 3.5-ton system, but the specifications sheet clearly states 5 ton. Verify tonnage with the seller before purchasing to ensure correct sizing for your home's load calculation and ductwork design.

Can this system handle downflow or horizontal installation besides upflow? +

The configuration specification lists upflow/downflow compatibility, and the airflow direction shows upflow/horizontal capability. A-coil design supports both orientations, though most installations use upflow in basements or downflow in attics. Confirm your specific installation orientation matches the available piping and drainage requirements before ordering.

How much will this system save on cooling costs compared to older equipment? +

A SEER1 rating of 16 versus typical 10-year-old equipment at SEER 10 delivers approximately 37% more cooling efficiency. Actual savings depend on local electricity rates, runtime hours, and home insulation. Many states offer utility rebates for Energy Star systems, reducing effective cost further and improving payback periods.

Should I choose this over a higher SEER variable-speed compressor model? +

Variable-speed compressors (SEER 18+) offer better dehumidification and quieter operation but cost 30-50% more. This single-stage model suits moderate climates with predictable cooling demand. Choose variable-speed if you prioritize comfort nuances and quietness in humid regions where extended part-load operation is common.

Does the 10-year warranty cover refrigerant and labor costs? +

The warranty covers parts replacement only. Refrigerant charges and technician labor fall outside coverage. Online registration is mandatory to activate warranty benefits. Review your specific product documentation for any exclusions or conditions before purchase.

Affiliate disclosure: IndustrialRank earns a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have independently reviewed.