3 Ton 15 SEER 80% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This Goodman system works well for homeowners replacing older equipment or those building new homes in moderate climates where baseline efficiency meets real-world budgets. The 16 SEER2 cooling performance and two-stage burner deliver comfort without premium pricing, though heating efficiency tops out at mid-range.

Review

Goodman remains a reliable volume player in residential HVAC, and this 3-ton split system represents their practical middle ground. The upflow A-coil configuration handles most residential retrofit and new build scenarios, while the 5-ton condenser pairing suggests flexibility across load calculations. At this price point, you're getting EPA-qualified equipment backed by a recognized warranty, without designer aesthetics or premium efficiency claims.

Cooling capacity reaches 34,800 BTU with 16 SEER2 efficiency, putting this unit in Energy Star territory and roughly 20% better than minimum code. The heating side delivers 100,000 BTU at 80% AFUE with a two-stage burner, allowing the system to modulate output on milder days. A high-efficiency multi-speed motor supports up to 2,000 CFM airflow, essential for proper stratification in homes over 2,000 square feet. Single-stage cooling means peak efficiency at full load, with some efficiency loss during partial load operation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

16 SEER2 rating with Energy Star certification, exceeding the 3-ton category baseline by 2-3 points
Two-stage burner with 80% AFUE handles variable heating loads efficiently across seasons
High-efficiency multi-speed blower reaches 2,000 CFM maximum, improving air distribution in larger spaces
10-year warranty with online registration covers compressor and parts, standard for mid-tier equipment
Scroll compressor technology runs quieter at 73.5 dB than reciprocating alternatives

Cons

80% AFUE is acceptable but not exceptional, trailing 90%+ AFUE units by 10-15% in heating efficiency
Single-stage cooling condenser limits part-load efficiency, costing extra during mild spring and fall months
A-coil configuration requires proper drainage setup and adds installation labor compared to horizontal units
Metal exhaust flue requirement restricts installation flexibility in some retrofit scenarios

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 10-15 year old equipment and prioritizing balanced cooling and heating performance without paying premium-tier pricing. Also suited for new construction where code compliance and Energy Star qualification matter more than ultra-high AFUE ratings.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in harsh winter climates should seek 92%+ AFUE units, and buyers with tight budgets needing absolute lowest-cost entry should compare basic 14 SEER2 models instead.

3 Ton 15 SEER 80% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fur

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Installation

This system requires 120V single-phase 60Hz service with 18.7 to 30-amp breaker sizing, standard in most homes. The A-coil upflow design fits attics or furnace closets, though suction line insulation (3/4 inch thick) and 50-foot maximum length demand careful line set routing. Metal exhaust flue is non-negotiable and adds installation cost. Licensed HVAC technicians typically need 4-6 hours for complete installation including refrigerant charging.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman's 10-year parts and compressor warranty applies with online registration, a straightforward process taking minutes on their website. Coverage includes refrigerant leaks and mechanical failure but excludes wear items like capacitors and contactors after year one. This warranty matches industry standards for mid-tier brands and provides genuine peace of mind through the first major seasonal stress cycles.

Specifications

SKU	LS38783850
Brand/Manufacturer	Online Supply
Cooling BTU	34,800
Heating BTU	100,000
Refrigerant	R410A or R22
Electrical	120 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	5 Ton
Height	34.5"
Width	21"
Depth	28.75"
Resources	Goodman Brochure Goodman Installation Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Parts Manual Goodman User Information Goodman Service Manual Goodman Technical Information Goodman Warranty You will need AdobeÂ® AcrobatÂ® 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.
Configuration	Upflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	7/8"
Style	A-Coil
Airflow Direction	Upflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Metal
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	80%
Blower Motor	High Efficiency Multi-Speed
Maximum CFM	2000
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/4"
Length	50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 16 SEER2 compare to my old system's efficiency? +

If you're replacing equipment from 2005 or earlier, expect 30-40% lower cooling costs. SEER2 replaces the older SEER rating and is roughly 15% more stringent, so 16 SEER2 roughly equals 18-19 SEER. Energy Star baseline for 3-ton units sits around 14 SEER2, so this unit outperforms that standard meaningfully.

Will this fit my attic space? +

At 34.5 inches tall, 21 inches wide, and 28.75 inches deep, the upflow A-coil demands roughly 8-10 feet of horizontal clearance plus roof access. Measure your attic joist spacing and confirm ceiling penetration points before ordering. Horizontal routing requires additional support brackets but installation remains straightforward.

What makes the two-stage burner better than single-stage? +

Two-stage operation runs the burner at 60% capacity during mild weather, reducing cycling losses and improving comfort. This saves roughly 5-8% on heating costs compared to single-stage units that blast on and off. Winter performance benefits most, while shoulder seasons (fall and spring) show the clearest efficiency gains.

Is 80% AFUE acceptable, or should I pay more for 95% AFUE? +

80% AFUE is code-compliant but mid-tier. High-efficiency 92-95% AFUE units cost 30-50% more upfront and recoup costs over 12-15 years in cold climates. For moderate climates or short ownership periods, 80% AFUE makes financial sense, though northern buyers should upgrade.

Does the 10-year warranty cover refrigerant? +

Yes, refrigerant leaks fall under compressor warranty coverage for 10 years with registration. However, you pay labor and diagnostics. R410A and R22 compatibility is noted in specs, though R22 systems are phased out, making R410A the practical choice for new installations.

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