3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This ACiQ 3.5-ton system is ideal for homeowners upgrading existing systems or contractors standardizing on reliable equipment with excellent efficiency ratings. The 96% AFUE furnace and Energy Star certified air conditioner make it a smart choice for climate zones where both heating and cooling demand is substantial.

Review

The ACiQ 3.5-ton split system occupies a practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market. Manufactured by Goodman and sold under the ACiQ label, this upflow configuration delivers straightforward efficiency without premium pricing. The 80,000 BTU gas furnace pairs with a 42,000 BTU air conditioner, making it suitable for homes averaging 1,500 to 2,000 square feet depending on climate. It earns Energy Star certification and carries a solid 10-year warranty, positioning it as a safe choice for contractors and homeowners seeking proven performance.

Performance numbers tell a consistent story of above-average efficiency. The furnace achieves 96% AFUE with two-stage burner operation, meaning it adapts heating output to demand. The air conditioner reaches 13 SEER with a single-stage reciprocating compressor, which is respectable but not cutting-edge. The variable-speed ECM blower motor runs up to 1,600 CFM and modulates to match cooling and heating needs, reducing unnecessary cycling. At 75 dB during operation, it's moderately loud but not exceptional. R410A refrigerant is standard across the industry and performs reliably in most climates.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE furnace efficiency with two-stage burner for flexible heating and lower gas bills
13 SEER cooling with single-stage reciprocating compressor rated for 42,000 BTU output
Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow up to 1,600 CFM for comfort and efficiency
Energy Star certified system reduces operating costs and qualifies for rebates in many areas
PVC-compatible plastic flue simplifies venting and reduces installation complexity
10-year parts warranty with online registration provides solid peace of mind

Cons

Single-stage compressor lacks modulation, meaning cooling cycles on-off rather than ramping power
75 dB noise level is moderately loud during operation, noticeable in quiet homes
Reciprocating compressor design is older technology compared to rotary or scroll compressors
Requires 23.9 to 40-amp breaker, limiting some retrofit panel installations

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors looking for a dependable mid-range system that balances efficiency and cost, or homeowners in mixed-climate regions replacing 10-plus year old equipment. This works well for standard residential applications where reliability matters more than cutting-edge features.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone prioritizing whisper-quiet operation, variable-capacity cooling, or seeking premium energy savings should explore higher-tier systems with scroll compressors and two-stage cooling.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu

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Installation

Installation is straightforward for experienced technicians. The system requires 115V, 1-phase 60Hz power with a 23.9 to 40-amp breaker, fitting most residential panels. Suction and liquid lines connect via sweat fittings with 3/8-inch suction line insulation. PVC flue venting simplifies ductwork compared to metal vents. The coil weighs 120 pounds and measures 30x21x21 inches, fitting standard utility closets or basement locations. Supply 30 feet of properly insulated refrigerant lines.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts warranty requires online registration to activate. Coverage includes compressor, blower, and furnace heat exchanger. Goodman's evaporator coil carries a separate warranty document. This coverage is competitive at this price point and protects against early component failure, though it does not cover labor or refrigerant. Most claims are processed smoothly through authorized dealers.

Specifications

SKU	ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG
Brand/Manufacturer	ACiQ
Cooling BTU	42,000
Heating BTU	80,000
Refrigerant	R410A
Electrical	115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	75
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	7/8"
Liquid Valve Size	3/8"
Max Breaker Size	40 amps
Min. Breaker Size	23.9 amps
Tonnage	5 Ton
Valve Type	Sweat
Height	30"
Width	21"
Depth	21"
Resources	CAPT Installation Manual CAPT Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil 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.
AHRI Certificate Number	7368835
Airflow Direction	Upflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Plastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	96%
Blower Motor	Variable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM	1600
Configuration	Upflow / Downflow
Flue Location	Right
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Propane, Natural Gas
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/8"
Length	30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between 13 SEER and SEER2 ratings on this unit? +

This unit displays 13 SEER, the legacy efficiency metric. SEER2 is the newer standard that factors higher outdoor temperatures and reflects real-world efficiency more accurately. A 13 SEER unit typically equals around 10-11 SEER2. ACiQ has not published SEER2 ratings for this model yet, but expect it to land in that range.

Can I use this system in a downflow configuration? +

The specs indicate upflow/horizontal airflow direction, and the configuration lists upflow/downflow as possible. However, verify with your distributor before purchasing for downflow installation. Some components may require field modification, and flue location is right-side mounted.

Does the variable-speed blower reduce my heating and cooling costs? +

Yes, the ECM variable-speed motor adjusts CFM between 0-1,600 to match load, reducing energy waste during partial-load operation. Combined with the 96% AFUE furnace, homeowners typically see 15-20% lower annual energy use compared to older single-stage systems.

How does this system compare to higher-SEER units like Lennox or Carrier? +

This 13 SEER, 96% AFUE unit is solid but lacks two-stage cooling and scroll compressors found in 16+ SEER competitors. Those cost significantly more but deliver quieter operation and better part-load efficiency. For standard homes, this ACiQ system delivers real value.

What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +

Parts coverage includes compressor, blower motor, and furnace components for 10 years with registration. Labor and refrigerant are not covered. Coverage applies to manufacturing defects, not wear, damage, or improper installation.

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