Review
The Goodman 3 Ton 96% AFUE furnace represents a practical middle-ground choice in the residential HVAC market. With an 80,000 BTU heating capacity and variable-speed ECM blower, this upflow system targets homeowners seeking efficiency gains without premium pricing. The unit handles both natural gas and propane, giving flexibility for different utility situations across regions.
Performance metrics are solid across the board. The 96% AFUE rating converts nearly all fuel to usable heat, a meaningful jump from 80-85% baseline units common in older homes. Cooling capacity reaches 34,800 BTU at 15 SEER, with refrigerant R410A in a scroll compressor configuration. The variable-speed blower with 1600 CFM maximum capacity handles staging smoothly, reducing energy waste during partial-load conditions typical in spring and fall.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency significantly reduces heating costs compared to 80-85% units
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow demand, improving comfort and reducing runtime noise
- Two-stage burner provides modulating heat output for better temperature consistency
- PVC flue compatibility simplifies installation and reduces material costs
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor concerns
Cons
- Specs show conflicting tonnage data, 3 ton in title but 5 ton in specs, creating confusion
- 73.5 dBA noise level runs on higher side, noticeable in quiet spaces or basements
- Single-stage condenser limits cooling efficiency compared to two-stage units
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners replacing 15-20 year old furnaces who prioritize heating efficiency and want a turnkey upflow installation. This system works well in homes with standard ductwork and single-story layouts where variable-speed motors reduce noise complaints.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone needing top-tier cooling performance should look at two-stage condensers, and buyers in extremely cold climates may want modulating condensers paired with this furnace.
Installation
This upflow configuration suits basements, crawlspaces, and closets with clearance above. PVC flue piping simplifies venting through exterior walls compared to metal ducts. Installation requires 208/230V single-phase power with breaker sizing between 18.7 and 30 amps. Refrigerant line sizing uses 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines with 3/4-inch insulation, standard for most contractors to handle quickly.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this system with 10 years parts and labor coverage when registered online after purchase. Registration is straightforward and highly recommended, protecting against compressor and heat exchanger failures. Labor coverage distinguishes this warranty from competitors offering parts-only plans, reducing out-of-pocket repair costs for subscribers.
Specifications
| SKU | LS38783850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 34,800 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73.5 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 30.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368835 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 21" |
| 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. |
| 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 |
| 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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