Review
The ACiQ 3.5 ton system represents Goodman's value strategy in the budget HVAC segment. At $3,136, it undercuts brand-name equivalents while maintaining solid engineering credentials via AHRI certification 7368845. The horizontal configuration with A-coil design targets installers working in space-constrained residential applications, particularly retrofit jobs where vertical equipment won't fit. This is genuine workhorse equipment designed for cost-conscious decision makers.
Heating performance is this unit's strength. The 96% AFUE rating and two-stage burner design deliver measurable efficiency gains, potentially saving $250-350 annually compared to standard 80% units in heating-heavy climates. Cooling at 13 SEER and 42,000 BTU/h capacity handles 3.5 tons adequately but without the modulation benefits of variable-capacity systems. The variable-speed ECM blower motor is a meaningful upgrade at this price, reducing fan energy draw during partial-load operation and improving temperature consistency throughout the home.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency significantly reduces heating costs, translating to roughly $200-300 annual savings compared to 80% units in cold climates
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adapts to actual heating and cooling demand, improving comfort and reducing runtime waste
- Two-stage gas burner allows the furnace to operate at partial capacity during mild weather, reducing cycling and fuel consumption
- Horizontal configuration with A-coil design fits tight attic and crawlspace installations where vertical units won't work
- PVC exhaust flue compatibility eliminates expensive masonry chimney modifications and reduces installation labor
- 3.5 ton cooling capacity delivers 42,000 BTU/h for medium residential applications without over-sizing penalties
- 10-year parts warranty with online registration provides reasonable coverage at this price tier
Cons
- 13 SEER cooling efficiency is standard, not premium, meaning higher AC operating costs than 14-16 SEER alternatives
- Single-stage condenser cannot modulate cooling capacity, leading to more on-off cycling and temperature swings on mild days
- No Energy Star certification signals it meets baseline standards only, not best-in-class performance
- 75 dB noise level is moderately loud, audible from adjacent rooms during heating cycles
- ACiQ branding, while backed by Goodman manufacturing, carries less brand recognition than direct Goodman or Lennox units
Who Should Buy
Best For
Budget-conscious contractors and homeowners replacing older 80-85% AFUE furnaces in climate zones with significant winter heating demands. Ideal for properties with limited space where horizontal configuration is mandatory, such as attics with low clearance or slab-foundation crawlspaces.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in mild climates where cooling dominates should look for higher SEER units, and those prioritizing quietest operation should evaluate models rated 70 dB or lower.
Installation
This horizontal unit requires standard HVAC installation expertise. The PVC exhaust flue is a major advantage, eliminating expensive chimney work and simplifying ductwork routing. Electrical connections demand 208/230V single-phase power at 23.9-40 amp breaker sizing. Refrigerant line set sizing uses standard 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines with 3/8-inch insulation thickness. Weight of 120 pounds and 36.25-inch height require careful positioning in tight attics.
Warranty & Reliability
Ten-year parts coverage with online registration is competitive at this price point, though it does not include labor costs. This aligns with industry standard for value-tier equipment and covers compressor, heat exchanger, and motor failures. Registration is essential for claim eligibility, so documentation should be retained immediately after installation.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 120,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 75 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| 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 | 36.25" |
| Width | 29" |
| Depth | 29" |
| Resources | Goodman Installation Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Manual Goodman Warranty Information Goodman Brochure 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. |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Tonnage | 3.5 Ton |
| Style | A-Coil |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 13 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Reciprocating |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 40 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 23.9 amps |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 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.