Review
The Goodman 3.5 ton upflow system pairs a 96% AFUE gas furnace with a 13 SEER air conditioner, making it a straightforward replacement for contractors upgrading homes from older split-system equipment. This unit competes directly with mid-range Rheem and Armstrong offerings, delivering reliable performance without premium-brand pricing. The A-coil configuration and upflow orientation fit standard residential installations where ductwork already exists.
Heating output hits a solid 100,000 BTU via two-stage burners, allowing the furnace to ramp down during mild weather and reduce energy waste. The multi-speed ECM blower can push up to 1,600 CFM, adapting airflow to actual heating and cooling demand. However, the 42,000 cooling BTU output reveals a spec inconsistency with the 3.5 ton tonnage claim, suggesting this unit works better for smaller homes or as a supplemental cooler in mixed-climate regions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means lower heating bills, recovering equipment cost in 3 to 5 years for most homeowners
- 13 SEER air conditioning matches modern efficiency standards and qualifies for Energy Star certification
- Two-stage burners and multi-speed ECM blower motor optimize comfort and reduce short-cycling
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides genuine peace of mind on the most expensive failure point
- PVC flue compatibility simplifies installation and reduces venting material costs versus metal ductwork
Cons
- Single-stage compressor limits seasonal efficiency gains compared to variable-capacity competitors
- Reciprocating compressor design generates 75 dBA noise, which some owners find noticeable during operation
- 42,000 cooling BTU falls short for larger homes or southern climates requiring true 3.5 ton output
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors and homeowners in moderate climates seeking a balance between efficiency and upfront cost. This system works especially well for homes with existing ductwork and upflow furnace installations where budget constraints favor Goodman over high-end Lennox or Carrier equipment.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in hot climates needing maximum AC capacity should look elsewhere, since the 42,000 cooling BTU undershoots the stated 3.5 ton rating.
Installation
Upflow and horizontal mounting options suit basement and attic placements common in North American homes. The unit requires 115V single-phase 60Hz power with a 23.9 to 40 amp breaker, standard for residential circuits. Sweat-type fittings on the 3/8 inch liquid line and 7/8 inch suction line demand competent HVAC technician work; DIY installation is not recommended.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman's warranty covers the heat exchanger for life, unit replacement for 10 years, and parts for 10 years with online registration. This three-tier structure protects the most costly failure point while incentivizing preventive maintenance. Real-world claims experience shows solid coverage, though labor costs remain the buyer's responsibility after year one.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Lifetime Heat Exchanger, 10 Years Unit Replacement, and 10 Years Parts 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 | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | GMEC96 Installation Manual GMEC96 Specifications Sheet GMEC96 Owner's Manual GMEC96 Service Manual GMEC96 Replacement Parts Manual GMEC96 Brochure Goodman Furnace 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 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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