Review
The Goodman 3.5 Ton Gas Furnace with 97% AFUE represents the upper tier of residential gas heating equipment. Manufactured by Goodman, this upflow A-coil configuration serves homes needing both reliable heating and moderate cooling capacity. At 100,000 BTU heating output with modulating burner control, it positions itself as an efficiency-focused replacement for older furnaces and a dependable option for homeowners who value low operating costs over premium features.
Heating performance centers on the 97% AFUE rating, meaning 97 cents of every dollar spent on gas fuel reaches your home as usable heat. The modulating burner continuously adjusts fire intensity between minimum and maximum, preventing the energy waste of traditional on-off cycling. Cooling delivers 42,000 BTU at 13 SEER1 efficiency with a reciprocating compressor and variable-speed ECM blower rated to 2000 CFM. While the AC side is competent for mild climates, the heating efficiency is the genuine selling point.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE efficiency means nearly all fuel converts to usable heat, reducing utility bills significantly
- Modulating burner adjusts output continuously rather than cycling on and off, improving comfort and reducing energy spikes
- Variable-speed ECM blower matches airflow to demand, cutting wasted electricity and noise
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor at most dealers
- Energy Star certified for environmental and financial rebate eligibility
Cons
- Cooling capacity is only 42,000 BTU (3.5 tons), which is undersized if paired with a larger AC unit
- Single-stage reciprocating compressor in the AC side limits part-load efficiency during mild weather
- 75 dB noise level is audible during operation and may concern noise-sensitive households
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in climates with longer, colder winters who prioritize heating efficiency and low operating costs. This furnace is particularly well-suited for retrofits replacing older 80% AFUE units, where the 17-point efficiency jump justifies the investment.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers seeking a high-efficiency cooling solution should look elsewhere, since the 13 SEER1 rating and single-stage compressor lag behind modern multi-stage units. Those in hot climates will find the AC performance underwhelming.
Installation
Installation requires proper ductwork sizing for 2000 CFM maximum airflow and 3/8-inch suction line insulation on the AC side. The upflow configuration works well in basements and utility closets. Electrical demands include 115V single-phase 60Hz service with a 23.9 to 40-amp breaker. PVC flue venting simplifies ducting compared to masonry chimney requirements. A licensed HVAC technician should handle refrigerant charges and gas connections.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides 10 years of parts and labor coverage upon online registration. This is a generous term for equipment in this price category and applies to both furnace and air conditioning components. Coverage is non-transferable unless you pay a separate fee, and registration must occur within 30 days of installation. Most dealers handle warranty claims efficiently.
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 | 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 | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Specifications 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 | 7424267 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| 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.