Independent Review · Updated June 2026

Goodman 3 Ton 14 SEER 96% 80,000 BTU Furnace & AC System - R410A Upflow

96% efficient gas furnace with 14 SEER cooling at an unbeatable $736 price point

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
Goodman 3 Ton 14 SEER 96% 80,000 BTU Furnace & AC System - R410A Upflow
Current Price
$736
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman combo system is ideal for budget-conscious homeowners and contractors replacing older equipment in existing upflow installations. At $736, you're getting legitimate high-efficiency hardware with a 96% AFUE furnace and ENERGY STAR rated AC, making it a smart choice for moderate climates where both heating and cooling matter.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton combo system represents solid middle-market positioning in the HVAC replacement category. At $736, this upflow unit bundles a furnace and air conditioning coil in one intelligent package. Goodman occupies the sweet spot between budget builders and premium brands, trusted by contractors for reliable performance without luxury pricing. This particular SKU (LS38783850) has gained traction with homeowners upgrading 15 to 20-year-old equipment in moderate climates.

Performance numbers tell the real story. The furnace delivers 96% AFUE efficiency with 36,000 BTU output, using a single-stage gas burner and 208/230V single-phase power. The AC side matches at 36,000 BTU cooling with 14 SEER rating and scroll compressor technology. A multi-speed blower handles airflow from zero to 1,600 CFM, allowing the system to adapt to your home's demands. ENERGY STAR certification confirms it meets federal efficiency thresholds without premium pricing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means minimal gas waste and lower heating bills in winter months
  • 14 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for ENERGY STAR certification, reducing summer energy costs
  • 3-ton capacity with 36,000 BTU heating and cooling handles most single-family homes adequately
  • Multi-speed blower motor adjusts airflow from 0 to 1,600 CFM for better comfort and efficiency
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid long-term protection on parts
  • Plastic PVC flue compatibility simplifies venting in many existing installations

Cons

  • Single-stage burner and compressor limit modulation, meaning the system runs at full capacity or off rather than adjusting mid-cycle
  • 73 dB noise level is moderately loud for the condenser, noticeable in quiet residential neighborhoods
  • R410A refrigerant is now being phased out in favor of R32 and R454B, potentially affecting future service availability

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners with existing upflow ductwork replacing a failed furnace-AC combo, especially those in moderate climates where both heating and cooling receive regular use. Contractors doing bulk replacements on budget-conscious jobs will appreciate the value and straightforward installation requirements.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone needing variable-capacity heating for extreme cold climates should look at two-stage furnaces, and those prioritizing whisper-quiet operation may want to explore higher-end units.

Goodman 3 Ton 14 SEER 96% 80,000 BTU Furnace & AC
$736
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation is straightforward for upflow applications with existing ductwork. The unit dimensions are compact at 30 inches tall by 21 inches wide and deep, fitting most utility closets and basements. Right-side flue placement and PVC venting compatibility simplify exhaust routing. Electrical requirements demand a 19.1 to 30-amp breaker at 208/230V single phase. Standard sweat connections (3/8 inch liquid, 7/8 inch suction) use common copper line sizing.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts warranty requires online registration and covers manufacturing defects in the heat exchanger, compressor, and coil. This is Goodman's standard offering, not industry-leading but respectable. Covers the scroll compressor, which is the most expensive single component to replace. Does not cover labor, refrigerant, or damage from improper installation.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU36,000
Heating BTU36,000
RefrigerantR410A
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorMulti Speed
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesSingle
Fuel TypeGas
Height30"
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.
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)16
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Max Breaker Size30 amps
Min. Breaker Size19.1 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this system really efficient compared to higher-priced models? +
The 96% AFUE furnace and 14 SEER cooling are legitimate efficiency metrics, not marketing tricks. You'll see real savings on utility bills. However, premium units offer variable-capacity operation that modulates output instead of running full-speed constantly, squeezing out additional 2 to 5% savings in mild weather.
Will this fit my existing ductwork and electrical setup? +
If your current system uses upflow configuration with 21-by-21 inch cabinet space, this drops in easily. Verify your breaker panel can accommodate 30 amps at 208 or 230V single phase. Most homes built after 1995 meet these requirements. Have a licensed electrician confirm before purchasing.
How loud is the outdoor unit at 73 dB? +
73 dB is comparable to a typical lawn mower or heavy traffic noise. You'll notice it running during summer cooling cycles. Premium units run quieter at 68 to 70 dB. For noise-sensitive neighborhoods, consider acoustic blankets or condenser location away from bedroom windows.
Should I buy this or wait for R32 refrigerant systems? +
R410A is still serviceable through 2025 and widely available now. R32 systems cost 15 to 25% more. If this system lasts 15 years as expected, R410A servicing remains accessible. Only delay if budget allows premium pricing for newer refrigerant technology.
What exactly does the 10-year warranty cover? +
Parts and labor on compressor, heat exchanger, and evaporator coil defects. Requires online registration. Does not cover installation errors, refrigerant loss, or preventive maintenance. Contact Goodman with proof of purchase and serial number to activate.

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