Review
Goodman's 3.5-ton downflow system represents a practical middle ground between budget basement units and premium variable-capacity equipment. At 647 dollars, this unit undercuts most brand-name alternatives while delivering verifiable efficiency gains through its 96% AFUE furnace and 16 SEER1 coil. The downflow configuration with A-coil design makes it particularly attractive for contractors handling basement installations, crawl spaces, and horizontal applications where upflow isn't viable.
Performance specs tell an interesting story. The furnace delivers 100,000 BTU across two burner stages, allowing it to ramp down during mild weather and avoid cycling losses. Cooling capacity reaches 34,800 BTU with a scroll compressor pulling 18.7 to 30 amps at 115V single phase. The variable-speed ECM blower maxes out at 2000 CFM, which means it modulates continuously rather than cycling on and off, reducing temperature swings and energy waste. Energy Star certification confirms these ratings against independent testing standards.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional heating efficiency at 96% AFUE, reducing natural gas consumption and monthly heating bills
- 16 SEER1 cooling rating exceeds the stated 14 SEER specification, indicating stronger real-world performance
- Two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower motor allow precise temperature modulation and quieter operation
- Energy Star certified with potential rebate eligibility in many utility programs
- Compact 30 inch height fits tight spaces, with downflow configuration ideal for basement or closet installation
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid peace-of-mind coverage
Cons
- Single-stage compressor limits part-load efficiency compared to two-stage or variable-capacity alternatives
- 73.5 dB noise level audible during full-load cooling operation, slightly louder than high-end competitors
- 3.5-ton cooling capacity slightly oversized for the stated 3-ton system, requiring careful load calculation
- R410A refrigerant charge requires certified EPA technicians, adding service costs
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors replacing older Goodman or competitor equipment in homes with basement or attic downflow installations will appreciate the straightforward specs and familiar platform. Homeowners in moderate climates with moderate budgets seeking measurable energy savings without premium pricing will see genuine ROI within 5-7 years.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this unit if your home needs two-stage cooling for peak efficiency, if you live in extreme heat climates where single-stage compressors cycle constantly, or if noise reduction is critical in close-proximity installations.
Installation
Installation favors contractors familiar with Goodman platforms. The downflow/horizontal configuration requires PVC exhaust flue, standard in modern builds. Refrigerant lines use industry-standard 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction connections with 3/4 inch insulation rated for 50-foot runs. AHRI certificate 7368844 confirms proper equipment matching. Electrical requires a dedicated 20-30 amp circuit, manageable in most residential panels. Proper ductwork sizing to 2000 CFM prevents air velocity problems.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year parts warranty activates upon online registration and covers compressor, coil, and furnace heat exchanger failures. This is solid for residential applications but falls short of some competitors offering 12-year terms. Registration takes minutes and protects your investment against manufacturer defects. Labor and refrigerant charge costs fall on the homeowner's service provider.
Specifications
| SKU | LS38783850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 34,800 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A or R22 |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73.5 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 30.000000 |
| 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 | 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. |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368844 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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