Review
The ACiQ 3.5-ton condenser paired with a Goodman 80,000 BTU furnace represents a rare entry-point option for contractors and homeowners seeking dual-fuel capability without premium pricing. At $647, this upflow system targets budget-conscious customers who don't need cutting-edge features but demand solid, proven reliability. The combination delivers across both heating and cooling seasons, though the specification sheet reveals some important trade-offs worth understanding before commitment.
The furnace's 97% AFUE rating stands out as the genuine efficiency hero here, particularly valuable in northern climates where heating dominates utility bills for eight months yearly. Cooling performance hits 13 SEER1 with an Energy Star certification, adequate for moderate climates but not aggressive for hot regions. The modulating burner adjusts continuously rather than cycling on/off, reducing temperature swings. However, the reciprocating compressor generates 73 dB of noise, noticeably louder than scroll designs in premium units, and the single-stage cooling runs full-throttle regardless of outdoor temperature.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 90-95% alternatives
- 13 SEER1 cooling rating meets Energy Star standards for both environmental and utility bill savings
- Modulating burner stages optimize gas usage across varying heating loads, not just on/off operation
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0 to 1,600 CFM for better temperature control
- R454B refrigerant is climate-friendly with zero ozone depletion potential
- Single-stage compressor design means fewer components to fail compared to multi-stage units
- $647 price point undercuts comparable 2.5-ton systems by $200-400
Cons
- 3.5-ton condenser oversizes the system relative to the 2.5-ton cooling BTU specification, which creates efficiency mismatches
- 73 dB noise level runs louder than premium units (68-70 dB typical for higher-tier equipment)
- Single-stage cooling means the AC runs at full capacity even during mild weather, wasting energy
- Reciprocating compressor is noisier and less efficient than scroll or rotary designs found in premium units
- 10-year warranty requires online registration, which some homeowners find inconvenient
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors building budget systems for rental properties or first-time buyers who prioritize heating efficiency in colder climates where the 97% AFUE provides real cost recovery. Homeowners comfortable with straightforward, no-frills equipment that prioritizes function over whisper-quiet operation.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in hot climates seeking primary cooling performance should look at higher SEER2 units, and anyone bothered by operational noise should audition this before purchasing.
Installation
Installation requires 115V, single-phase power with a 16.7 to 25 amp breaker, making it compatible with standard residential electrical service. The A-coil upflow configuration fits standard closets and utility rooms. Suction line measures 3/4 inch with 3/4 inch insulation thickness, while liquid line uses 3/8 inch sweat connections. PVC exhaust flue compatibility simplifies venting. Height of 34.5 inches and depth of 28.75 inches fit most standard spaces without modification.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman covers parts and labor for 10 years, conditional on online registration within 60 days of installation. This is solid coverage matching many competitors, though online registration sometimes creates friction for contractors unfamiliar with the process. Parts availability remains excellent due to Goodman's market presence. Keep documentation accessible for future service claims.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 30,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 13 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Reciprocating |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 3/4" |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 25 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 16.7 amps |
| Tonnage | 3.5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Installations Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman 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. |
| Configuration | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424266 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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