Review
Goodman's 5-ton vertical cased coil sits firmly in the contractor workhorse category, not the luxury segment. This unit replaces the older GSX16S481 model and targets HVAC professionals and homeowners who need reliable mid-range efficiency without spending on high-end features. At $117, it undercuts specialty brands while maintaining Energy Star certification, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious replacements and new builds in non-extreme climates.
Performance specs tell a straightforward story. The 16 SEER1 efficiency rating and 45,500 BTU cooling capacity handle full 5-ton loads through a scroll compressor, the industry standard for durability. R410A refrigerant compatibility aligns with current residential standards. Single-stage operation means the compressor runs full-bore or off, without the modulation that two-stage units offer. The 73 dB noise level is acceptable for most residential installations but ranks higher than comparable variable-capacity models in quiet suburban settings.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 16 SEER1 rating exceeds most baseline efficiency standards and qualifies for Energy Star
- 45,500 BTU cooling capacity handles 5-ton loads with scroll compressor reliability
- Vertical 21-inch cased A-coil design fits tight attic and closet spaces contractors encounter regularly
- Affordable at $117 compared to premium variable-capacity competitors
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection for residential installations
Cons
- Single-stage compressor limits precise humidity control during mild weather operation
- 73 dB noise level runs louder than two-stage models, noticeable in quiet neighborhoods
- Specs show conflicting tonnage ratings (4 ton in title, 5 ton in specs), creating ordering confusion
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors doing equipment replacements on existing Goodman systems will appreciate the straightforward compatibility and proven scroll compressor design. Homeowners in moderate climates replacing aging single-stage units will see energy bill reductions without paying for advanced staging they don't need.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this if you live in a high-heat zone where variable-capacity compressors justify premium pricing, or if you prioritize ultra-quiet operation below 70 dB.
Installation
The vertical 21-inch width and depth fit typical attic joist spacing and tight utility closets where horizontal coils won't fit. Electrical requirements are reasonable at 208/230V single-phase 60 Hz with 23.9 to 40 amp breaker sizing, well within standard residential service. Line sets include 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction ports with 3/4-inch insulation on 50-foot maximum runs, standard for residential splits. Installation difficulty remains moderate for licensed technicians familiar with Goodman equipment.
Warranty & Reliability
Ten-year parts coverage with online registration is solid for residential work. This warranty is comparable to entry-level competitors but shorter than some premium brands offering 12-15 years. Registration is required, so contractors need to either register units themselves or ensure homeowners complete the online process within 30 days. Coverage excludes refrigerant and labor, following industry norms.
Specifications
| SKU | LS38783850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 45,500 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 30.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Replaces | GSX16S481 |
| 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 | 40 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 23.9 amps |
| Tonnage | 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. |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
Affiliate disclosure: IndustrialRank earns a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have independently reviewed.