3.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% 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 or contractors building complete heating and cooling solutions in upflow configurations. The 96% AFUE furnace and 16 SEER2 air conditioner deliver solid efficiency gains without premium pricing.

Review

Goodman has built its reputation on delivering capable HVAC equipment at competitive prices, and this 3.5-ton system reflects that philosophy. The combination pairs a 100,000 BTU furnace with a 42,000 BTU air conditioner in an upflow configuration, making it suitable for many residential applications. With Energy Star certification and solid efficiency ratings across both heating and cooling, this unit targets homeowners balancing performance with cost.

The furnace achieves 96% AFUE through condensing technology, capturing heat that standard units waste. Cooling performance reaches 16 SEER2 with a scroll compressor and single-stage condenser, adequate for consistent comfort but not aggressive variable-speed modulation. The ECM multi-speed blower motor runs at 1600 CFM maximum and adjusts output to match actual demand, improving efficiency and reducing runtime noise compared to fixed-speed alternatives.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE furnace rating exceeds baseline efficiency standards and reduces heating costs significantly
16 SEER2 cooling efficiency with scroll compressor provides reliable, consistent cooling performance
Two-stage burner and multi-speed ECM blower motor reduce short-cycling and improve comfort
PVC exhaust venting simplifies installation compared to traditional metal flue requirements
10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor on major components

Cons

73 dB noise level runs louder than premium variable-speed systems, noticeable during operation
Single-stage condenser limits ability to modulate cooling efficiency in mild weather conditions
5-ton cooling capacity paired with 3.5-ton rating creates potential sizing mismatches for smaller spaces

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates needing straightforward upflow furnace and AC replacement without budget for premium systems. Contractors standardizing on Goodman equipment for residential retrofit projects where efficiency gains matter more than whisper-quiet operation.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone prioritizing ultra-quiet operation or seeking variable-capacity cooling for maximum efficiency in fluctuating temperatures should look at competitors like Lennox or Carrier.

3.5 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas F

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Installation

This system requires plastic or PVC exhaust venting on the right side, simplifying installation compared to traditional metal ducts. The 30 by 21 by 21 inch cabinet fits standard utility spaces. Electrical demands remain moderate at 208/230V single-phase 60 Hz with breaker requirements between 23.5 and 40 amps, accommodating most residential panels without major upgrades.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides a 10-year warranty when owners register online, covering parts and compressor. This standard residential coverage protects against manufacturing defects but excludes labor costs after initial installation. Registration is straightforward and worth completing immediately to activate full warranty benefits.

Specifications

SKU	LS381183850
Brand/Manufacturer	Online Supply
Cooling BTU	42,000
Heating BTU	100,000
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	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	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.
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
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	1 1/8"
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	1/2"
Length	50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the actual cooling capacity compared to the heating rating? +

The furnace delivers 100,000 BTU heating while the air conditioner provides 42,000 BTU cooling. This 3.5-ton system handles moderate climates well. In hot regions, verify your home's cooling load matches 42,000 BTU output to prevent short-cycling or inadequate comfort during peak summer demand.

Can this system handle downflow installation? +

Yes, the unit supports both upflow and downflow configurations. However, your existing ductwork must accommodate the selected direction. The right-side flue location remains fixed, so ensure your venting plan accounts for this before installation.

How much will this system reduce my heating bills compared to older furnaces? +

At 96% AFUE versus older units around 80-85% AFUE, expect 11 to 20 percent savings on heating costs. Actual savings depend on local gas prices, your home's insulation, and usage patterns. Over 15 years, this efficiency gain adds significant value.

Should I choose this over more expensive variable-speed systems? +

This system delivers strong efficiency at lower cost, but variable-speed units modulate more precisely in mild weather. If budget is primary and your climate sees moderate summers and winters, this Goodman performs reliably. For maximum efficiency in wide temperature swings, premium brands justify higher upfront investment.

Does the warranty cover refrigerant and parts replacement? +

Yes, the 10-year registered warranty covers compressor and refrigerant issues. Verify registration immediately after installation. Labor costs beyond the first year typically remain the homeowner's responsibility under standard coverage terms.

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