3.5 Ton 13 SEER 98% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This 3.5 ton system works best for contractors and homeowners upgrading older furnace and AC combinations, especially in horizontal attic or basement installations where space matters. The 97% AFUE heating efficiency combined with 13 SEER cooling makes it a solid mid-range choice for moderate climates.

Review

The ACiQ 3.5 ton system represents Goodman's reliable middle market approach to residential comfort. At 80,000 BTU heating capacity and 42,000 BTU cooling output, it handles typical single family homes effectively. The horizontal A-coil configuration makes it particularly valuable for attic installations where traditional upflow furnaces create space conflicts. Energy Star certification confirms it meets EPA efficiency thresholds without premium pricing.

Performance specs tell a practical story. The furnace delivers 97% AFUE efficiency using a modulating burner that ramps heat output based on actual demand, not just on-off cycling. The air conditioner achieves 13 SEER using a reciprocating compressor with R410A refrigerant and single stage capacity control. The variable speed ECM blower motor adjusts to 1,600 CFM maximum, which means quieter operation during partial load conditions versus constant maximum blower speed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

97% AFUE furnace efficiency with modulating burner stages reduces gas waste and monthly heating bills
Energy Star certified 13 SEER air conditioner with R410A refrigerant meets modern environmental standards
Variable speed ECM blower motor handles 1,600 CFM maximum airflow, adapting to actual heating and cooling demand
Horizontal A-coil configuration fits tight attic spaces where vertical upflow units won't work
10 year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage for parts and labor

Cons

Single stage compressor in air conditioner limits part load efficiency during mild weather operation
75 dB noise level runs slightly louder than premium variable capacity competitors during peak cooling
Reciprocating compressor design may require more maintenance intervals compared to scroll compressor alternatives

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing replacement systems in homes with horizontal attic returns or basement installations will appreciate the A-coil design and proven Goodman reliability. Homeowners in regions with moderate heating and cooling seasons see the best payback from the 97% AFUE furnace efficiency.

Consider Alternatives If

Skip this unit if you need variable capacity cooling for humid climates or require premium quiet operation below 70 dB.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 98% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu

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Installation

Installation requires standard lineset configuration with 3/8 inch liquid line and 7/8 inch suction line, both sweat connections. The unit needs 3/8 inch suction line insulation for condensation control. Electrical demands stay modest at 115V single phase 60 Hz, requiring a 23.9 to 40 amp breaker. PVC plastic exhaust flue works with the furnace section, simplifying venting in horizontal configurations.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10 years of parts and labor coverage once you complete online registration, though basic warranty starts immediately upon purchase. This extended coverage period gives contractors predictable service call costs and homeowners peace of mind. Registration takes minutes and activates protection across the entire system, both furnace and condenser components.

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	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	3/8"
Length	30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 13 SEER cooling compare to newer 14-16 SEER units? +

13 SEER is respectable mid-tier efficiency, roughly 15-20% less efficient than current premium units at 16 SEER. For moderate climates, the 97% AFUE heating efficiency often provides better overall seasonal payback than premium cooling capacity, especially since heating typically runs 6-8 months annually versus 2-3 months for cooling.

Will this fit my existing ductwork and return air setup? +

The horizontal A-coil design requires upflow or horizontal return air configuration. Verify your current ductwork supports 1,600 CFM maximum airflow without excessive static pressure. The 34.5 inch height, 21 inch width, and 28.75 inch depth fit most standard attic cavities, but measure your space first.

Does the modulating furnace really save money on gas bills? +

Modulating burners reduce cycling losses by ramping output to match actual heating load instead of constant on-off cycles. Real world savings range from 5-12% depending on climate severity and system runtime. Homeowners in cold regions see larger benefits than those in mild climates.

How does this compare to Lennox or Carrier at similar price points? +

Goodman trades some variable capacity sophistication for proven reliability and lower installed cost. Lennox and Carrier often offer better single stage efficiency ratings, but Goodman's modulating furnace approach achieves comparable annual efficiency at lower equipment expense, favoring cost conscious buyers.

Is online registration required for the 10 year warranty? +

Yes, completing Goodman's online registration within 30 days activates the extended 10 year coverage. Without registration, coverage drops to 5 years parts and 1 year labor. Registration is free and takes approximately 5 minutes.

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