Review
The Goodman 3.5 Ton split-system condenser occupies the middle market tier, pitched between budget-conscious contractors and premium-efficiency seekers. At 42,000 BTU cooling capacity with a 16 SEER1 rating, it delivers measurable efficiency gains over aging 13-SEER units without straining electrical infrastructure. The Energy Star certification and 10-year registered warranty appeal to homeowners wanting factory-backed peace of mind. Online Supply positions this unit as a straightforward replacement option for residential retrofit jobs and new construction alike.
Performance hinges on the scroll compressor operating at full capacity in single-stage mode, producing 1,600 CFM through a variable-speed ECM blower. At 73 dB, acoustic output trails some quieter competitors but remains acceptable for most residential settings. The 16 SEER1 rating reflects real-world testing, meaning summer cooling bills drop noticeably compared to legacy 10-12 SEER units. R410A refrigerant ensures compliance with current EPA standards, and the 3/8-inch liquid line paired with 1 1/8-inch suction line simplifies connection to standard indoor coils.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 16 SEER1 efficiency rating exceeds the 3.5-ton nameplate, delivering measurable energy savings
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor reduces runtime noise to 73 dB and improves comfort control
- Scroll compressor technology provides proven reliability and quieter operation than reciprocal designs
- Energy Star certified with 10-year warranty when registered online
- Flexible installation: handles upflow and downflow configurations with A-coil design
- Durable 50-foot pre-insulated suction line (1/2 inch insulation) ships ready for connection
Cons
- Tonnage listing shows 5 tons but title claims 3.5 tons, creating confusion about actual cooling capacity
- Single-stage compressor cannot modulate, so it runs full-bore or off with less comfort control than variable-stage models
- 73 dB output is louder than comparable 14 SEER units, noticeable in quiet neighborhoods
- Requires 208/230V single-phase power, limiting compatibility on three-phase commercial installations
- Maximum 15-amp breaker rating is tight, leaving little safety margin in real-world wiring scenarios
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors performing equipment swaps in residential homes where the existing indoor coil and refrigerant lines are compatible with R410A, and homeowners upgrading from older 10-13 SEER units who want predictable performance and genuine Energy Star certification. This unit works well in moderate climates where single-stage operation suits seasonal demand patterns.
Consider Alternatives If
Builders or HVAC shops needing variable-capacity cooling for comfort-critical applications, properties already operating on three-phase electrical service, or customers in noise-sensitive areas where every decibel matters.
Installation
Installation requires standard split-system connectivity: liquid line, suction line, and electrical terminals wired to a compatible indoor coil unit. The 50-foot pre-insulated suction line (1/2-inch foam) ships ready, shortening job time. Upflow and downflow A-coil orientation flexibility handles most attic and basement placements. Electrical setup demands 208/230V single-phase 60Hz service with breaker sizing between 23.5 and 15 amps, confirming adequate panel capacity beforehand. Technicians should verify refrigerant compatibility and perform standard pressure and superheat checks during commissioning.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this unit with a full 10-year parts warranty upon online registration, protecting compressor, coil, and electrical components. Registration is straightforward and adds value without hidden conditions. The Goodman Evaporator Coil Warranty extends coverage to the indoor side, a practical benefit for split-system longevity. Unregistered units default to shorter coverage, making the five-minute registration step worthwhile for long-term asset protection.
Specifications
| SKU | LS381183850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| 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 |
| 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 | 15 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. |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1,600 |
| Electric Backup Heat Capabilities (Optional) | 3 Kilowatts, 5 Kilowatts, 6 Kilowatts, 8 Kilowatts, 10 Kilowatts, 15 Kilowatts |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| 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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