Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 16 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air Conditioner System - Upflow/Downflow

Budget-friendly 3-ton heat pump with solid 16 SEER efficiency and variable-speed reliability

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 16 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air Conditioner System - Upflow/Downflow
Current Price
$647
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This Goodman unit is built for homeowners in moderate climates seeking year-round comfort without premium pricing. At $647 with 16 SEER efficiency and a variable-speed ECM blower, it delivers competitive performance for existing ducted systems in 3-ton applications.

Review

The Goodman 3-ton heat pump at $647 sits in the practical middle ground between bare-bones budget units and premium variable-capacity systems. Sold through Online Supply under SKU LS38783850, this air handler combines a scroll compressor, two-stage condenser, and variable-speed ECM blower into a compact 30-pound package. Upflow/downflow A-coil orientation makes retrofit work straightforward in homes with existing ductwork. It's a no-frills choice for contractors and homeowners prioritizing reliability and ease of installation over cutting-edge efficiency.

The unit delivers 36,000 BTU of cooling and heating capacity with a 16 SEER efficiency rating, qualifying for Energy Star designation. The variable-speed ECM blower reaches 1,600 CFM maximum and automatically modulates based on demand, reducing short-cycling and improving dehumidification. Two-stage condenser operation allows partial-load cooling in mild weather, reducing compressor strain. Electrical specs include 208/230V single-phase 60Hz input with 20.3 to 35 amp breaker sizing, making it compatible with standard residential panels. Optional electric backup heat ranges from 3 kW to 15 kW for supplemental warmth.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 16 SEER rating meets Energy Star requirements, reducing utility costs by 15-20% versus older 13 SEER models
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor automatically adjusts to 1,600 CFM maximum, improving comfort and air distribution
  • Two-stage condenser provides flexibility for both partial and full-load cooling, extending equipment lifespan
  • Upflow/downflow A-coil configuration works in existing installations without ductwork redesign
  • Scroll compressor design reduces vibration and operates quieter at 73 dB than many competitors
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers compressor and sealed components

Cons

  • 16 SEER is solid but not cutting-edge; newer 18-20 SEER models offer better long-term savings for climate zones 4-5
  • 73 dB noise level is acceptable but noticeably louder than premium variable-capacity units running at partial load
  • Two-stage operation limits efficiency gains in shoulder seasons compared to true modulating compressors
  • Electric backup heat requires separate 3-15 kilowatt add-on, increasing total system cost

Who Should Buy

Best For

This unit suits homeowners in zones 2-3 replacing aging central AC/heat pump systems who value straightforward installation and reliable year-round performance. It's ideal if your existing ductwork is sound and you want to avoid costly system upgrades while gaining modest efficiency improvements.

Consider Alternatives If

Skip this if you live in very cold climates (zone 5+) where a 3-ton capacity may prove undersized, or if you're building new and can invest in 18+ SEER modulating equipment for deeper operating cost savings.

3 Ton 16 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air
$647
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

This A-coil handler accepts 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction refrigerant lines with sweat-valve connections. The 50-foot pre-insulated suction line (3/4-inch foam thickness) eliminates field insulation work. Dimensions of 38.25 inches tall by 35.5 inches wide and deep fit standard utility closets or basement alcoves. Upflow/downflow flexibility accommodates both above-furnace and below-furnace placement. Most installations complete in 4-6 hours with basic refrigeration tools and electrical knowledge.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides a 10-year warranty on sealed components and the scroll compressor when you register online. Coverage includes parts and labor at authorized dealers, though some regional variations apply. This warranty rivals mid-tier competitors but falls short of premium brands offering 10-year fully transferable coverage. Proper annual maintenance and professional installation are required to validate coverage.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU36,000
Heating BTU36,000
RefrigerantR410A
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1,600
Electric Backup Heat Capabilities (Optional)3 Kilowatts, 5 Kilowatts, 6 Kilowatts, 8 Kilowatts, 10 Kilowatts, 15 Kilowatts
Max Breaker Size35 amps
Tonnage3 Ton
Height38.25"
Width35.5"
Depth35.5"
ResourcesGoodman Specifications Goodman Customer Brochure Goodman Installation Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Technical Information Goodman Technical Publication Goodman Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
Safety InformationPROPOSITION 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.
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
Product FeaturesRebate Available, Two Stage Condenser
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)16
Condenser StagesTwo Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Min. Breaker Size20.3 amps
Valve TypeSweat
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this unit work with my existing furnace? +
Yes. This A-coil air handler is designed to mount on top of or below a standard furnace. Verify your furnace cabinet can accommodate the 30-pound weight and 35.5-inch width. You'll need to adapt refrigerant and electrical connections, a task for licensed HVAC technicians.
How much electrical work is required? +
The unit operates on 208/230V single-phase 60Hz, standard residential service. Breaker sizing ranges from 20.3 to 35 amps depending on auxiliary heat selection. Hire a licensed electrician to run dedicated wiring and verify panel capacity before installation.
Is 16 SEER good enough for my climate? +
16 SEER works well in moderate climates (zones 2-3) with 300-400 cooling degree days annually. In zone 4-5, consider 18+ SEER models to offset higher operating costs over 15-20 years. Run a life-cycle cost analysis specific to your location.
How does the variable-speed blower improve comfort? +
The ECM blower automatically adjusts from low speed during mild cooling to full 1,600 CFM during peak demand. This reduces temperature swings, improves humidity removal, and lowers noise during partial-load operation compared to single-speed designs.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
The warranty covers the scroll compressor, refrigerant coil, and sealed components. Labor and shipping are included through authorized dealers. Online registration is mandatory. Review the full warranty document before purchase.

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