Review
The Goodman 4 Ton gas furnace and air conditioning system hits a practical middle ground in the HVAC market. At $3136, it positions itself as an affordable upgrade for homeowners tired of paying premium prices for entry-level efficiency. The horizontal A-coil configuration makes this particularly valuable for retrofits where space limitations rule out traditional vertical units. Goodman's reputation for straightforward engineering means fewer bells and whistles, but also fewer failure points.
Performance numbers tell a compelling story. The furnace delivers 120,000 BTU heating output at 96% AFUE, meaning 96 cents of every energy dollar converts to heat rather than venting away. The cooling side provides 45,500 BTU capacity with a 16 SEER rating, which exceeds Energy Star thresholds. The variable-speed ECM blower motor runs between 0 and 2000 CFM, allowing the system to ramp output up or down based on demand rather than cycling on and off constantly. This modulation reduces temperature swings and energy waste.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency significantly reduces heating costs compared to older 80-85% models
- 16 SEER cooling rating exceeds Energy Star requirements and qualifies for many utility rebates
- Variable speed ECM blower motor adjusts output from 0 to 2000 CFM for improved comfort and efficiency
- Horizontal A-coil configuration fits tight attic and basement spaces where vertical units won't work
- Two-stage burner and two-stage cooling provide better modulation and more consistent temperatures
Cons
- 73 dB noise level is audible during operation, higher than premium units with sound dampening
- Single-stage condenser limits capacity modulation in mild weather, increasing runtime
- Scroll compressor is durable but less efficient than variable-displacement designs in newer premium models
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 15-20 year old systems will see immediate utility bill reductions, typically recovering the investment within 8-10 years through heating and cooling savings. Contractors installing in rental properties or spec homes will appreciate the balance of performance, reliability, and competitive pricing.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers seeking cutting-edge technology or those in extremely hot climates should evaluate higher SEER ratings like 18-21 SEER systems that offer better part-load efficiency.
Installation
Installation requires standard HVAC connections: 3/8-inch liquid line and 1 1/8-inch suction line with 1/2-inch insulation. The unit draws 208/230V single-phase power and needs a 23.9 to 40-amp breaker. Plastic or PVC exhaust flue is required. Weighing 48 pounds and measuring 36.25 inches tall by 35.5 inches wide and deep, horizontal placement fits most attics and basement mechanical closets. Most contractors complete installations in 4-6 hours.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides 10 years of parts coverage with online registration, a solid mid-tier warranty. Registration is essential, as unregistered units typically fall to standard limited coverage. This duration matches most competitor offerings at this price point and covers compressor failures, heat exchanger cracks, and component defects that commonly occur after year 3.
Specifications
| SKU | LS381183850 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Online Supply |
| Cooling BTU | 45,500 |
| Heating BTU | 120,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 48.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Configuration | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 1 1/8" |
| Tonnage | 4 Ton |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Height | 36.25" |
| Width | 35.5" |
| Depth | 35.5" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Specifications Goodman Installation Manual Goodman Warranty Information Goodman Service Instructions Goodman Kit Instructions Goodman Parts Manual 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 |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Replaces | GSX16S481 |
| 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 |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 1/2" |
| 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.