Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

High-efficiency modulating gas furnace paired with solid 13 SEER cooling

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This system works best for homeowners in mixed climates who prioritize heating efficiency and want a straightforward, reliable combo unit. The 97% AFUE furnace with modulating burners will noticeably reduce winter heating costs, while the 13 SEER air conditioning handles moderate cooling loads without breaking the budget.

Review

This Goodman system pairs a high-efficiency gas furnace with a mid-range air conditioner in a single horizontal package. The 97% AFUE furnace puts it in the top tier for heating efficiency, while the 13 SEER cooling keeps pace with current energy standards. It's designed for contractors and homeowners prioritizing reliability over premium features, with straightforward installation using standard R410A refrigerant and sweat connections.

The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU of heat with a modulating burner that adjusts output based on thermostat demand, reducing short-cycling and improving comfort. Cooling capacity reaches 42,000 BTU through a single-stage reciprocating compressor. The variable-speed ECM blower motor runs efficiently across both heating and cooling cycles, with maximum airflow of 1,600 CFM. Energy Star certification confirms performance meets EPA standards for both heating and cooling.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE heating efficiency with modulating burners adapts output to actual heating demand, cutting fuel waste
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor provides better comfort and lower operating costs compared to single-speed designs
  • 13 SEER cooling with Energy Star certification meets strict efficiency standards for new installations
  • Compact A-coil horizontal configuration fits tight spaces like attics and crawlspaces
  • 10-year parts warranty with online registration provides solid manufacturer backing

Cons

  • 42,000 BTU cooling capacity is below typical for 3.5-ton rating, limiting performance in hot climates
  • Single-stage compressor lacks the efficiency gains of two-stage or variable-capacity options
  • 75 dBA operating noise is moderately loud for some residential applications

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing aging furnace-AC combos in northern or temperate regions will see strong ROI from the 97% AFUE rating. Contractors installing horizontal systems in attics or tight mechanical spaces appreciate the compact 34.5-inch height and straightforward sweat-valve connections.

Consider Alternatives If

Skip this if you're in a consistently hot climate or need maximum cooling capacity, as the 42,000 BTU output underperforms typical 3.5-ton expectations.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Horizontal A-coil configuration fits tight vertical spaces, measuring 34.5 inches tall and 120 pounds. Requires standard 115V single-phase 60Hz power with 23.9 to 40-amp breaker support. Refrigerant lines use 3/8-inch and 7/8-inch sweat connections, plus 30 feet of insulated suction line. PVC flue venting simplifies exhaust routing compared to metal ductwork.

Warranty & Reliability

10-year parts warranty activates upon online registration, covering defects in materials and workmanship. This is competitive for mid-range equipment but doesn't include labor costs. Registration is required, so don't skip it at installation.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU42,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR410A
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)75
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)13
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeReciprocating
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Max Breaker Size40 amps
Min. Breaker Size23.9 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height34.5"
Width21"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Installation 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 InformationPROPOSITION 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.
ConfigurationDownflow/Horizontal
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7424271
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/8"
Length30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the cooling capacity listed as 42,000 BTU for a 3.5-ton unit? +
This reflects actual compressor displacement and refrigerant charge. Standard 3.5-ton units typically deliver 42,000 BTU; the tonnage rating refers to heating capacity combined with this cooling output. It's adequate for most homes but won't match units specifically rated for high cooling demand.
Can this horizontal unit fit in my attic space? +
At 34.5 inches tall, 21 inches wide, and 28.75 inches deep, it's compact for attic installations. Verify clearance around the unit for airflow and serviceability. The horizontal A-coil design was built specifically for this application.
How much money will the 97% AFUE furnace save versus standard units? +
A 97% AFUE furnace burns 3 to 5% less fuel than a standard 92% AFUE model. On typical heating bills of $1,200 annually, expect $36 to $60 in yearly savings, with payback depending on local gas prices and installation costs.
How does the modulating burner compare to two-stage systems? +
Modulating burners adjust continuously to heating demand rather than cycling between two fixed outputs. This delivers smoother comfort and better efficiency but costs more upfront than two-stage alternatives.
What happens if I don't register my warranty online? +
The warranty requires online registration to activate. Without it, coverage may be limited or denied. Register immediately after installation to secure your 10-year protection.

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