4 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This Goodman system excels for homeowners in mixed climates who need both reliable heating and efficient cooling. The 96% AFUE furnace paired with a 16 SEER1 condenser makes it ideal for regions with moderate winter heating demands and significant summer cooling needs.

Review

Goodman's dual-fuel offering pairs a high-efficiency 80,000 BTU furnace with a 5-ton air conditioner rated 16 SEER1. This split system targets homeowners seeking balanced performance across heating and cooling seasons. The SKU LS381183850 replaces the GSX16S481 model, bringing updated efficiency ratings and Energy Star certification to an established platform trusted by contractors nationwide.

The furnace achieves 96% AFUE using two-stage burner technology and a variable-speed ECM blower that caps out at 1600 CFM. Cooling capacity reaches 45,500 BTU with a scroll compressor and R410A refrigerant. The single-stage condenser design means no modulation at partial capacity, but the 16 SEER1 rating translates to roughly 20% better efficiency than baseline 13 SEER units. Real-world performance depends heavily on proper refrigerant charge and airflow balance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE rating on furnace delivers industry-leading heating efficiency and lower winter utility bills
16 SEER1 rating on 5-ton condenser far exceeds the minimum 13 SEER standard, saving approximately 20% on cooling costs
Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts output automatically, reducing runtime energy waste and noise
Two-stage burner on furnace allows modulated heating, improving comfort and efficiency in moderate weather
PVC exhaust capability reduces installation costs compared to metal flue requirements

Cons

Single-stage air conditioner compressor cannot modulate cooling, limiting efficiency during partial-load conditions
73 dB noise level runs louder than some premium competitors, potentially noticeable during operation
Spec sheet shows conflicting tonnage information (title states 4 ton but specs list 5 ton), creating confusion

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors and homeowners in transitional climates who operate furnaces 4-6 months annually and need robust cooling for summer months. This system rewards consistent year-round use with solid efficiency gains on both sides.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in heating-dominant climates should prioritize furnace efficiency first, or those wanting two-stage cooling should look for variable-capacity units.

4 Ton 15 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn

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Installation

This downflow/horizontal A-coil system requires standard 115V single-phase power with a 23.9-40 amp breaker window. Suction line insulation comes pre-installed at 1/2 inch thickness, with line sets rated to 50 feet maximum. PVC flue compatibility simplifies exhaust venting, though proper condensate drainage and return-air sealing remain critical for reliable operation.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman extends a 10-year parts warranty when registered online, covering compressor, coil, and major components. This is solid mid-tier coverage. Registration is straightforward but required, so homeowners should complete it immediately after installation to activate full protection.

Specifications

SKU	LS381183850
Brand/Manufacturer	Online Supply
Cooling BTU	45,500
Heating BTU	80,000
Refrigerant	R410A
Electrical	115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	73
Weight (in lbs)	48.000000
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	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	7368843
Airflow Direction	Downflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Plastic / PVC
Product Features	Rebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	96%
Blower Motor	Variable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM	1600
Configuration	Upflow / Downflow
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Propane, Natural Gas
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	1 1/8"
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	1/2"
Length	50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a 4 ton or 5 ton system? +

The product title and heating capacity suggest 4 tons, but specifications clearly list 5-ton tonnage and 45,500 BTU cooling output. This discrepancy should be clarified with the supplier before purchase. Consult the AHRI certificate number 7368843 for definitive sizing.

What electrical infrastructure do I need? +

The system requires 115V single-phase 60 Hz power with a dedicated breaker sized between 23.9 and 40 amps. Most homes already have sufficient service. Your electrician should verify existing panel capacity and upgrade if needed before installation.

How much will this save on heating and cooling bills? +

The 96% AFUE furnace saves approximately 8-12% on heating versus 80% AFUE units. The 16 SEER1 condenser cuts cooling costs roughly 20% below 13 SEER baselines. Total savings depend on local climate, usage patterns, and utility rates, typically ranging $800-1500 annually in mixed climates.

Should I choose this or a variable-capacity air conditioner? +

Variable-capacity units deliver 5-10% additional cooling efficiency and quieter operation in mild weather. This single-stage system costs less upfront but runs at full capacity continuously. Choose single-stage for budget constraints, variable for maximum efficiency and quietest performance.

Does registration really matter for warranty coverage? +

Yes. Goodman's 10-year warranty requires online registration to activate. Without it, coverage defaults to much shorter terms. Register immediately after installation to ensure full protection on compressor and coil.

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