Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3.5 Ton 15 SEER 98% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

High-efficiency modulating furnace with variable-speed blower and strong cooling performance

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3.5 Ton 15 SEER 98% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman system excels for homeowners in moderate climates seeking balanced heating and cooling without premium pricing. The modulating burner and variable-speed ECM blower deliver genuine energy savings, making it smart for those who value efficiency over entry-level costs.

Review

Goodman's 3.5 ton combination system pairs a modulating gas furnace with a single-stage air conditioner in one compact A-coil package. At 30 inches tall and 21 inches deep, it fits standard upflow and horizontal configurations. The unit ships through Online Supply with AHRI certification 7424266, confirming matched component performance. This is a solid mid-market choice for contractors and DIY installers seeking balanced performance without premium pricing.

The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU at 97% AFUE, while the AC section produces 42,000 cooling BTU with a 16 SEER rating. The modulating burner adjusts heat output to match demand, avoiding the energy waste of single-stage units that run at full blast. The variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts to 1600 CFM maximum, improving both comfort and dehumidification. Electrical requirements are straightforward: 115V single-phase 60 Hz, drawing 23.5 to 40 amps.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Modulating burner stages adapt to heating demand, reducing short-cycling and energy waste
  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency exceeds most standard units on the market today
  • 16 SEER cooling rating beats the 15 SEER specification, indicating strong AC performance
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor improves comfort and humidity control with 1600 CFM maximum
  • Energy Star certified with 10-year warranty when registered online
  • Single-stage scroll compressor is proven reliable in residential applications

Cons

  • Single-stage cooling means AC runs at full capacity rather than adjusting to seasonal load, wasting energy in mild weather
  • 73 dB noise level is moderately loud for a residential unit, noticeable in quiet neighborhoods
  • R410A or R22 refrigerant compatibility requires clear documentation to avoid field mistakes during installation

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in mixed climates who heat and cool throughout the year and want efficiency without two-stage equipment costs. This system makes sense for those replacing older 80s-era equipment where the furnace gets regular winter use.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in consistently cold regions should prioritize heating capacity, and those in hot climates wanting quiet operation or variable cooling should evaluate two-stage AC units instead.

3.5 Ton 15 SEER 98% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Installation requires proper refrigerant line sizing. Use 3/8 inch liquid lines and 1 1/8 inch suction lines with 1/2 inch insulation thickness (pre-sized for 50 feet). PVC or plastic exhaust venting is required. Both natural gas and propane configurations are supported. Proper ductwork sealing and return air sizing are critical for achieving rated efficiency. Most contractors complete installation in one day with standard tools.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10 years of parts coverage when you register the unit online. This is competitive for mid-tier equipment and covers compressor, heat exchanger, and major components. Labor and refrigerant are not included, so budget separately for service calls. Registration is mandatory, so complete paperwork at installation.

Specifications

SKULS381183850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU42,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)48.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)16
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Max Breaker Size40 amps
Min. Breaker Size23.5 amps
Tonnage5 Ton
Height30"
Width21"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPF Installation Manual CAPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
Safety InformationPROPOSITION 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.
AHRI Certificate Number7424266
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line1 1/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness1/2"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the actual cooling capacity in tons? +
The AC section produces 42,000 BTU, which equals 3.5 tons of cooling capacity. This matches typical residential demand for homes 1,200 to 1,800 square feet. The product title mentions 3.5 tons cooling, confirming adequate sizing for most single-family homes in moderate climates.
Can I use this furnace with my existing ductwork? +
Yes, the 30-inch height fits standard return plenums, but verify your ductwork supports 1600 CFM airflow without exceeding 0.5 inches water column static pressure. Leaky ducts reduce efficiency gains from the ECM blower. Have an HVAC pro conduct a duct test before installation to avoid disappointing results.
Does modulating heating really save money compared to single-stage? +
Yes, modulating burners reduce run time during mild weather and part-load conditions. You'll see 10 to 15 percent furnace energy savings versus two-stage units. Actual savings depend on thermostat setups and climate. Cold-climate homes benefit more than warm regions with brief heating seasons.
How does 16 SEER compare to other mid-range AC units? +
16 SEER exceeds the 15 SEER specification, placing this unit above baseline efficiency standards. However, two-stage units reach 18+ SEER. For homes avoiding premium pricing, 16 SEER is respectable. Single-stage cooling limits part-load efficiency, especially in spring and fall.
What happens if I don't register the warranty? +
Without online registration, Goodman's 10-year coverage becomes void. Registration takes five minutes and requires the serial number and installation date. Keep your receipt and confirmation email. Unregistered units may only receive limited manufacturer support.

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