Review
The Goodman 5 Ton 16 SEER horizontal system occupies a practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market. At $3,136, it competes directly with other mid-tier combo units rather than budget basement models or premium contractor specials. The horizontal A-coil configuration makes it the preferred choice for installers working in constrained spaces, particularly attics and crawlspaces where traditional vertical units simply don't fit. Goodman's established reputation for reliable residential equipment supports its position here.
Performance specifications reveal a genuinely competent system. The furnace delivers 120,000 BTU heating with 96% AFUE efficiency, meaning 96 cents of every heating dollar goes into warming your home rather than escaping through the flue. Cooling output reaches 57,000 BTU at 18 SEER, translating to lower summer electricity consumption compared to 14-16 SEER competitors. The variable-speed ECM blower motor manages 2,000 CFM maximum airflow, automatically adjusting to avoid unnecessary energy waste. Two-stage operation on both heating and cooling sides extends runtime without stressing components.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means lower heating bills compared to 80-90% units, with measurable annual savings on natural gas or propane
- 18 SEER cooling rating provides strong air conditioning performance for humid climates, though labeled as SEER1 in newer testing standards
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts fan speed to room demand, reducing electricity consumption and providing quieter operation than fixed-speed alternatives
- Two-stage burner and two-stage condenser allow the system to run at partial capacity during mild weather, extending equipment lifespan and reducing cycling
- Horizontal configuration fits naturally into attic and crawlspace installations where vertical clearance is limited or non-existent
Cons
- Not Energy Star certified, which disqualifies it from some utility rebate programs despite meeting efficiency thresholds
- 74 dBA noise level is moderate to loud, particularly noticeable in open attic spaces or when condenser operates at full capacity
- Requires PVC exhaust flue installation, limiting placement options and adding venting complexity compared to standard metal ductwork
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors replacing systems in homes with attic or crawlspace limitations and homeowners in moderate climates seeking efficiency gains without premium pricing. This unit makes sense for properties where 96% AFUE heating and 18 SEER cooling align with typical usage patterns rather than peak-performance requirements.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in areas with strong utility rebate programs for Energy Star equipment, or those prioritizing whisper-quiet operation should look at higher-tier alternatives with lower decibel ratings.
Installation
Installation requires PVC exhaust venting, which adds modest complexity compared to standard metal flues. The 296-pound weight and 38.25-inch height demand proper support structures in attics or crawlspaces, particularly for horizontal mounting. Electrically, the unit needs 208-230V single-phase service with minimum 36.7 amp breaker capacity, standard for most residential installations. AHRI Certificate 7368845 confirms proper matching between furnace and condenser components.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides 10-year parts coverage contingent on online registration within 30 days of installation. This warranty is industry-standard for mid-tier equipment and covers compressor, heat exchanger, and blower motor failures. Labor and refrigerant are typically excluded under standard warranty terms, so clarify specifics with your installer before purchase.
Specifications
| SKU | DSXC180601 |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 57,000 |
| Heating BTU | 120,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 74 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 296.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| 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 | Horizontal |
| Energy Star | No |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Height | 38.25" |
| Width | 35.5" |
| Depth | 35.5" |
| Resources | Goodman Specifications Goodman Installation 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. |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Tonnage | 5 Ton |
| Style | A-Coil |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 18 |
| Condenser Stages | Two Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 60 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 36.7 amps |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
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.