Review
The Goodman 3.5-ton downflow system represents a practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market. Priced at $3,770, it combines respectable efficiency ratings with straightforward design that contractors appreciate. This unit targets homeowners upgrading from 10-15 year old equipment and those qualifying for local utility rebates. The downflow configuration suits many residential installations where return air comes from above and supply ducting routes downward through basement or crawlspace.
Performance metrics here are genuinely competitive for the price point. The furnace delivers 120,000 BTU heating output at 96% AFUE, meaning nearly all fuel converts to usable heat rather than escaping the flue. The air conditioner produces 34,800 BTU cooling (3-ton actual capacity) with 16 SEER1 efficiency rating, qualifying for Energy Star recognition. The variable-speed ECM blower motor automatically adjusts to 2000 CFM maximum, matching load conditions rather than running full-speed constantly, which reduces electricity consumption measurably over the heating and cooling seasons.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency significantly reduces heating costs compared to 80-90% units
- 16 SEER1 cooling efficiency qualifies for Energy Star and rebate programs
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow intelligently, improving comfort and reducing energy waste
- Two-stage gas burner provides modulating heat output for better temperature control
- Scroll compressor is proven reliable and quieter than reciprocating designs at 73.5 dBA
- Dual-fuel capability handles propane or natural gas for installation flexibility
Cons
- Single-stage cooling compressor cannot modulate, cycling on/off rather than continuously adjusting capacity
- 3.5-ton cooling paired with 120,000 BTU heating may create imbalance in heating-dominant climates
- PVC exhaust requirement limits placement options compared to units accepting metal flue venting
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors seeking value-priced combo units for residential retrofits or new builds where rebates offset initial cost. Homeowners replacing older systems and willing to register for the 10-year warranty to maximize coverage.
Consider Alternatives If
Those needing variable-capacity cooling in hot climates should look for two-stage compressor systems, and anyone avoiding online registration should choose alternative brands with automatic transferable warranties.
Installation
Installation requires standard HVAC skills but specific attention to PVC exhaust venting, which must remain gravity-drainable and protected from freezing. The downflow orientation demands careful ductwork layout. Suction lines need the included 3/4-inch insulation thickness to prevent refrigerant temperature loss. Electrical connection uses 115V single-phase 60Hz service with breaker sizing between 18.7 and 30 amps. Refrigerant charging and thermostat integration require EPA certification.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year parts warranty applies only with online registration, which is straightforward but mandatory. This covers compressor, blower motor, and heat exchanger defects under normal operation. It does not cover labor, refrigerant recharge, or installation issues. The Goodman evaporator coil carries separate coverage details documented in included warranty documentation. Registering promptly after installation protects your investment fully.
Specifications
| SKU | LS38783850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 34,800 |
| Heating BTU | 120,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| 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 | 24.5" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | CAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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 | 7368845 |
| 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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