3 Ton 14 SEER 80% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This system makes sense for cost-conscious homeowners in moderate climates who want acceptable efficiency without premium pricing. The 14 SEER rating and 80% AFUE are respectable baseline specs, but this is entry-level performance, not cutting-edge. At $647, you're getting a functional system, not a long-term energy savings investment.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton gas furnace and air conditioner system at $647 slots firmly into the budget HVAC segment. This SKU LS38343830 combines basic cooling and heating capacity into a straightforward combo unit targeting price-sensitive installers and homeowners. The upflow configuration and compact 21-inch width footprint simplify placement in tight utility closets, while the A-coil design integrates readily with standard ductwork. Online Supply positions this as an accessible replacement option for contractors managing multiple properties on tight margins.

Performance-wise, the 36,000 BTU cooling capacity achieves a 14 SEER rating, meaning reasonable summer cooling efficiency without premium compressor technology. The 80,000 BTU gas furnace operates at 80% AFUE with two-stage burner control, allowing some modulation during mild weather. The scroll compressor and high-efficiency multi-speed blower motor reaching 2,000 CFM maximum airflow represent solid engineering choices. However, these specs occupy the middle-to-lower range of 2024 offerings. The 73 dB operating noise is noticeably louder than competitors, a factor renters and noise-sensitive households should weigh carefully.

Pros & Cons

Pros

14 SEER cooling efficiency is solid for the price point, delivering 36,000 BTU in 3-ton capacity
Two-stage gas burner with 80,000 BTU heating output provides flexible heating control
High-efficiency multi-speed blower motor with 2,000 CFM maximum airflow capacity
Scroll compressor delivers reliable cooling with R410A or R22 refrigerant compatibility
10-year warranty with online registration protects against manufacturing defects
Upflow/downflow configuration flexibility accommodates multiple installation scenarios

Cons

80% AFUE is baseline efficiency for 2024 standards, missing opportunities for gas savings versus 90%+ units
Single-stage compressor means less precise temperature control compared to variable-speed alternatives
73 dB noise level runs audibly louder than premium models, noticeable during operation
Not ENERGY STAR certified, eliminating potential utility rebates available to homeowners
Metal exhaust flue requirement limits some retrofit installations and adds venting costs

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing failed HVAC systems in moderate climates who need quick installation without high upfront costs. This works best for properties with straightforward ductwork and those willing to accept entry-level efficiency for maximum affordability.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in extreme climates, energy-conscious buyers seeking long-term utility bill reductions, or those prioritizing quiet operation should look at higher SEER/AFUE models despite premium pricing.

3 Ton 14 SEER 80% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn

$647

Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation requires standard HVAC practices: 120V single-phase electrical service with 18.7 to 30-amp breaker sizing, metal exhaust flue routing, and proper refrigerant line sizing using the included 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction lines with 3/4-inch insulation thickness. The 30-inch height, 21-inch width and depth allow compact placement. Upflow/downflow versatility reduces site-specific complications. Reference the included CAPF Installation Manual for ductwork connections and startup procedures.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year comprehensive warranty with online registration covers manufacturing defects in compressors, coils, and electrical components. This matches industry standard coverage but requires registration within specified timeframes to activate. Parts failures after year one may involve service call costs. The evaporator coil carries separate coverage under Goodman's terms. Read fine print carefully regarding labor cost responsibility.

Specifications

SKU	LS38343830
Brand/Manufacturer	Online Supply
Cooling BTU	36,000
Heating BTU	80,000
Refrigerant	R410A or R22
Electrical	120 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	73
Weight (in lbs)	35.000000
Feature	Spec
Energy Star	No
SEER1 (Efficiency)	14
Condenser Stages	Single Stage
Compressor Type	Scroll
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	3/4"
Liquid Valve Size	3/8"
Suction Valve Size	3/4"
Max Breaker Size	30 Amps
Min. Breaker Size	18.7 Amps
Tonnage	3.5 Ton
Height	30"
Width	21"
Depth	21"
Resources	CAPF Installation Manual CAPF 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.
Airflow Direction	Upflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Metal
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	80%
Blower Motor	High Efficiency Multi-Speed
Maximum CFM	2000
Configuration	Upflow / Downflow
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Gas
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/4"
Length	30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 14 SEER compare to newer SEER2 standards and should I wait for SEER2 models? +

14 SEER converts roughly to 11.5 SEER2 under current testing. SEER2 units command 15-25% premiums currently. For budget buyers, 14 SEER delivers acceptable cooling efficiency. SEER2 mandates become industry-wide in 2025, so replacement timing depends on your utility rates and comfort priorities.

Will this system work in cold climates where heating is the primary need? +

The 80,000 BTU furnace with 80% AFUE handles moderate heating loads adequately. Northern climates with temperatures below freezing for extended periods benefit from 90%+ AFUE units with better gas efficiency. Test your heating load calculations with a contractor to confirm sizing.

What's the practical difference between single-stage and two-stage compressors for homeowner comfort? +

Single-stage runs full-power or off, cycling constantly on mild days. Two-stage runs at reduced capacity longer, maintaining steadier temperatures and humidity. This unit features two-stage heating burners but single-stage cooling, representing a partial compromise for cost savings.

Can I upgrade to higher SEER without replacing both units, or am I locked into this system? +

The A-coil design integrates standard-size evaporator coils. You can retrofit higher SEER condenser units with compatible refrigerant lines, though matching mismatched component ages increases service complexity. Plan for full system replacement if efficiency matters long-term.

Does the 10-year warranty cover labor and refrigerant costs if the compressor fails? +

Warranty covers parts only, not labor or refrigerant. Service calls, technician time, and refrigerant charges are your responsibility. Budget $500-1,200 for professional repair visits when components fail outside warranty scope.

Affiliate disclosure: IndustrialRank earns a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have independently reviewed.