Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3.5 Ton 15 SEER 97% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

High-efficiency dual-fuel system with modulating furnace and variable-speed blower.

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3.5 Ton 15 SEER 97% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This system excels for homeowners seeking superior heating efficiency with a 97% AFUE modulating furnace and Energy Star cooling. Best suited for mixed climates where both heating and cooling demand consistent performance, and installers valuing straightforward upflow configurations.

Review

Goodman's 3.5-ton dual-fuel system represents a practical middle-ground choice in the residential HVAC market. This upflow-configured unit pairs a gas furnace with an air conditioning condenser, providing year-round climate control without requiring two separate systems. The 97% AFUE heating efficiency and Energy Star cooling certification signal that Goodman is targeting cost-conscious contractors and homeowners who want solid performance without premium pricing. The unit's A-coil design suits installation in attics and utility closets where space is constrained.

Performance figures demonstrate competent efficiency across both functions. The furnace delivers 100,000 BTU heating output with modulating burners that adjust flame intensity based on demand, reducing cycling and improving comfort. Cooling capacity reaches 42,000 BTU with a SEER1 rating of 16. The variable-speed ECM blower motor ramping up to 2000 CFM ensures proper air distribution without constant full-speed operation. At 73 dB, noise output sits in the moderate range, noticeable but not excessive during typical operation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace with modulating burners reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% single-stage units
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0 to 2000 CFM, improving comfort and efficiency
  • SEER1 16 rating and Energy Star certification deliver solid cooling performance
  • Scroll compressor is a proven, reliable design with low maintenance requirements
  • Upflow A-coil configuration simplifies installation in basements and tight attic spaces

Cons

  • 3.5-ton cooling capacity conflicts with listed 5-ton tonnage, creating specification confusion for contractors
  • 73 dB noise level is moderate to loud for some residential installations, especially during heating cycles
  • SEER1 16 is good but not exceptional compared to newer 17+ SEER2 high-efficiency systems on the market

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors and homeowners in northern and mixed climates who prioritize heating efficiency alongside reliable cooling. This system is ideal for properties where natural gas or propane is readily available and upflow installation is feasible.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers seeking the absolute quietest operation or the highest cooling ratings should explore competing systems with SEER2 17+ ratings and variable-speed compressors.

3.5 Ton 15 SEER 97% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas F
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Installation

Upflow configuration makes this unit straightforward for installers accustomed to basement or horizontal attic placement. The A-coil style accepts both 3/8-inch liquid lines and 1 1/8-inch suction lines with standard 1/2-inch insulation. Electrical requirements demand a 23.5 to 40 amp breaker at 115 volts single-phase 60 Hz. PVC exhaust flue is required, simplifying venting compared to masonry chimneys. At 48 pounds, the condenser unit is manageable for two technicians.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10 years of coverage upon online registration, a respectable duration that reflects confidence in component longevity. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, though coverage specifics require reviewing the full warranty document. Ten years aligns with industry standards for mid-range equipment, offering meaningful protection without lifetime claims.

Specifications

SKULS381183850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU42,000
Heating BTU100,000
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
Height34.5"
Width21"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Specifications 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.
ConfigurationUpflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line1 1/8"
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7424267
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2000
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness1/2"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the spec list show 3.5 tons cooling but 5 tons tonnage? +
This appears to be a specification error or mixture of unit designations. The 42,000 BTU cooling capacity confirms 3.5-ton cooling output. Contractors should clarify tonnage with the distributor before purchase to ensure proper system sizing for load calculations.
Can this system use both R410A and R22 refrigerant? +
No. The unit is designed for one refrigerant or the other, not both interchangeably. R410A is standard on new systems, while R22 is used only in legacy applications. Confirm which refrigerant your installer will charge before installation.
How does 97% AFUE compare to other gas furnaces? +
97% AFUE places this furnace in the high-efficiency category. Standard systems operate at 80-85%, while premium condensing furnaces reach 95-98%. At 97%, this unit delivers excellent heat capture, translating to lower monthly heating bills, especially in cold climates.
Is a variable-speed blower worth the extra cost? +
Yes, especially for homeowners sensitive to noise or running costs. The ECM blower ramps speed based on demand instead of running full-bore constantly, reducing electricity consumption by 25-50% and improving temperature consistency throughout the home.
Does online registration really matter for the warranty? +
Yes. Goodman requires online registration to activate the 10-year warranty. Without registration, coverage may revert to a shorter period. Complete registration within the specified timeframe after installation.

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