Independent Review · Updated June 2026

5 Ton 17 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

Variable-speed heat pump delivers 18 SEER efficiency with dual-stage cooling for year-round comfort.

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
5 Ton 17 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
$0
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// Bottom Line
This 5-ton Goodman system is ideal for homeowners upgrading from older R22 units or contractors looking for an efficient, variable-speed solution in moderate-to-large homes. The 18 SEER rating and ECM blower motor deliver measurable energy savings, particularly in regions with significant heating and cooling seasons.

Review

The Goodman 5-ton heat pump system represents a solid mid-range option for residential HVAC replacement or new construction. Manufactured by a company with decades of industry presence, this unit combines variable-speed efficiency with two-stage cooling capability. It's designed as a horizontal coil unit suitable for attics, crawlspaces, or basement installations where traditional vertical airflow isn't practical. Energy Star certification signals compliance with federal efficiency standards that most regions now expect from new systems.

Performance metrics tell the real story here. The unit delivers 57,000 BTU cooling and 57,000 BTU heating capacity with an 18 SEER efficiency rating, meaning roughly 18 BTU of cooling per watt-hour consumed. The variable-speed ECM blower runs up to 2,000 CFM and adjusts automatically rather than cycling on and off at fixed speeds, reducing electricity use by 10-15 percent compared to single-speed alternatives. Two-stage compression allows the compressor to run at 70 percent capacity during mild weather, when full 5-ton output isn't needed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 18 SEER efficiency rating exceeds most standard units and qualifies for Energy Star certification
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor matches capacity to actual demand, reducing runtime and energy waste
  • Two-stage condenser provides flexible cooling for part-load conditions common 60-70 percent of the year
  • Accepts both R410A and R22 refrigerant, simplifying retrofit installations on existing systems
  • Scroll compressor design proven for durability and quiet operation at 75 dBA
  • Sweat valve connections eliminate potential leak points from threaded fittings

Cons

  • Price not disclosed in spec sheet, making value comparison impossible at point of purchase
  • 38.8 amp minimum breaker requirement means most homes need existing 200-amp service or panel upgrade
  • Horizontal A-coil configuration limits placement options, excluding upflow basement installations common in many homes

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates looking to replace aging equipment and willing to invest in efficiency, or contractors installing systems where horizontal ductwork and space constraints make this configuration the only viable option. The variable-speed motor makes this particularly attractive for homes where noise matters or where cooling/heating loads vary seasonally.

Consider Alternatives If

Budget-conscious buyers needing entry-level equipment should look at two-stage fixed-speed units instead, and homes with existing 100-amp service and no breaker capacity should avoid the 38.8 amp minimum requirement.

5 Ton 17 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air
$0
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Installation

This horizontal A-coil requires adequate attic or crawlspace clearance with minimum 26-inch width and 21.125-inch depth, plus 24.5 inches height. Refrigerant lines use 3/8-inch liquid and 1 1/8-inch suction ports with half-inch insulation, allowing up to 50 feet of lineset. Electrical demands a 208 or 230V single-phase 60Hz service with breaker rated between 38.8 and 15 amps. Professional installation is strongly recommended for proper evacuation and charging.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman's 10-year parts and compressor warranty applies with online registration, covering manufacturing defects and component failure. Most labor costs fall to the homeowner or installer after year one. This warranty term is competitive for mid-tier equipment but shorter than some premium brands offering 12-year coverage. Registration is essential, as implied warranty may not apply without proof of activation.

Specifications

SKULS381183850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU57,000
Heating BTU57,000
RefrigerantR410A or R22
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)75
Weight (in lbs)48.000000
FeatureSpec
Product FeaturesRebate Available, Two Stage Condenser
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)18
Condenser StagesTwo Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size1 1/8"
Max Breaker Size15 amps
Min. Breaker Size38.8 amps
Tonnage5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height24.5"
Width26"
Depth21.125"
ResourcesCHPF Installation Manual CHPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil 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.
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2,000
Electric Backup Heat Capabilities (Optional)3 Kilowatts, 5 Kilowatts, 6 Kilowatts, 8 Kilowatts, 10 Kilowatts, 15 Kilowatts, 20 Kilowatts
ConfigurationHorizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line1 1/8"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness1/2"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 18 SEER rating actually mean for my electric bill? +
SEER measures seasonal cooling efficiency. An 18 SEER unit uses roughly 20-30 percent less electricity than a 13-14 SEER system common in older homes, translating to $400-800 annual savings depending on local climate and usage. Payback typically occurs within 5-7 years through lower utility costs alone.
Can I install this myself, or do I need a licensed technician? +
EPA regulations require EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerant. Most jurisdictions also require licensed HVAC contractors for installation and startup. Professional installation ensures proper evacuation, charging to exact specifications, and electrical safety compliance.
Does this unit work as a heat pump in winter, or do I need backup heating? +
The unit provides 57,000 BTU heating via heat pump cycle down to approximately 35-40 degrees outdoor temperature. Below that threshold, supplemental electric heating becomes necessary. Optional 3-20 kilowatt electric elements are available for backup, essential in northern climates.
How does the variable-speed blower differ from my old single-speed system? +
Variable-speed ECM motors modulate from 40-100 percent output based on temperature demand, running longer at lower speeds rather than cycling on and off. This eliminates cold drafts, reduces noise, and cuts electricity consumption by 10-15 percent compared to fixed-speed alternatives.
What happens if something fails during year 2-10 of the warranty? +
Compressor and parts failures are covered at no charge with proof of registration. Labor costs are the owner's responsibility. Extended warranties covering labor are available separately from the installer or retailer at purchase time.

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