Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

Solid 3-ton combo system with 96% efficiency and 13 SEER for budget-conscious upgrades.

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman system works best for homeowners replacing older equipment in existing downflow installations who prioritize furnace efficiency over cooling performance. The 96% AFUE rating delivers real savings on heating costs, while 13 SEER cooling is adequate for moderate climates but won't match premium models.

Review

The 3-ton Goodman gas furnace and air conditioner system positions itself as a practical choice in the mid-market HVAC segment. Sold through Online Supply with SKU LS38783830, this downflow-configured combo replaces older GSX series models and targets homeowners and contractors seeking straightforward equipment without premium pricing. The system handles 36,000 BTU cooling and 80,000 BTU heating across a compact 21-by-21-by-22-inch footprint, fitting existing spaces where dimension constraints matter.

Performance metrics tell a heating-focused story. The 96% AFUE rating places this furnace among the most efficient gas units available, translating directly to lower winter fuel consumption for homeowners in cold climates. Cooling efficiency rates at 13 SEER, which meets minimum standards but trails contemporary 15-18 SEER systems. The multi-speed blower motor with 1,600 CFM maximum capacity manages airflow responsively, while single-stage compression at 74 dBA operates acceptably though noticeably in quiet rooms. Electrical requirements run straightforward at 115V single-phase 60Hz with 19.1 to 30-amp breaker sizing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency tops most residential gas units, reducing winter heating costs measurably
  • Flexible refrigerant compatibility accepts R410A or R22, easing retrofit decisions for existing systems
  • Multi-speed blower motor with 1,600 CFM maximum allows better temperature distribution and comfort control
  • PVC plastic flue venting simplifies installation in tight spaces compared to metal ductwork
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid baseline coverage for parts and labor

Cons

  • 13 SEER rating is entry-level for air conditioning, performing below 15+ SEER systems in cooling efficiency
  • Single-stage compressor cycles on-and-off rather than modulating, using more energy during partial-load operation
  • 74 dBA noise level ranks on the louder side for residential units, potentially noticeable in bedrooms
  • Not Energy Star certified, limiting eligibility for utility rebate programs available in many markets

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in heating-dominant climates who spend most utility dollars on winter comfort appreciate the 96% AFUE rating. Budget-conscious contractors installing downflow systems in attics or crawlspaces benefit from the straightforward configuration and PVC flue compatibility.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in hot climates prioritizing air conditioning efficiency or those seeking Energy Star rebates should explore higher-SEER alternatives, as this system's cooling performance lags current standards.

3 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn
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Installation

Installation favors downflow and horizontal configurations, with right-side flue positioning for PVC plastic venting. The A-coil style evaporator matches standard horizontal plenums. Refrigerant lines size at 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction, with 3/8-inch insulation thickness provided for 30-foot line sets. Sweat-type valve connections require soldering skills, though experienced HVAC technicians accomplish this routinely. PVC flue venting eliminates metal ductwork complexity.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman covers this system for 10 years on parts and labor when registered online within 30 days of installation. Coverage includes the furnace, air conditioner, and evaporator coil against manufacturing defects. Registration remains straightforward through Online Supply's website. This baseline coverage proves adequate for most installations but lacks extended options offered by premium manufacturers.

Specifications

SKULS38783830
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU36,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)74
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
ReplacesGSX130362, GSX130363, GSX130365
Energy StarNo
SEER1 (Efficiency)13
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeReciprocating
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size3/4"
Max Breaker Size30 amps
Min. Breaker Size19.1 amps
Tonnage3 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height22"
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.
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorMulti Speed
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesSingle
Fuel TypeGas
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/8"
Length30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this system use R22 refrigerant, or does it require R410A? +
The system accepts both R410A and R22 refrigerant, offering flexibility when retrofitting existing installations. If replacing an older R22 system, confirm the condenser matches your refrigerant choice before ordering. R410A remains the standard for new equipment and performs slightly better in cooling capacity.
Is this downflow unit suitable for attic installation? +
Yes, the downflow configuration with right-side PVC flue venting works well for attic applications. The 21-inch square footprint fits standard floor joists. Ensure adequate clearance for the 30-foot suction and liquid lines, and verify your attic space accommodates the unit's 22-inch height with ductwork above.
How does 96% AFUE compare to other furnaces in this price range? +
At 96% AFUE, this furnace ranks among the most efficient non-condensing units available. Most competitor models in similar price brackets offer 90-95% AFUE. You're gaining 1-6 percentage points in heating efficiency, translating to measurable savings over a furnace's 15-20 year lifespan.
Will 13 SEER cooling performance satisfy a homeowner in Arizona or Florida? +
13 SEER provides acceptable cooling but underperforms in hot climates. Homeowners in Arizona, Florida, or similar regions should strongly consider 15-18 SEER systems to handle peak summer loads efficiently. This unit suits moderate climates where heating dominates annual utility costs.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
The warranty protects against manufacturing defects in the furnace, air conditioner, and evaporator coil for 10 years. Coverage includes parts and labor on qualifying issues. Online registration within 30 days activates coverage, so register promptly after installation completion.

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