3.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This ACiQ unit is ideal for budget-conscious homeowners and contractors installing replacement systems in existing homes where upflow configuration works. The 97% AFUE furnace paired with 13 SEER cooling delivers solid efficiency without premium pricing, making it smart for moderate climates or mixed-use applications.

Review

The ACiQ 3.5 Ton system represents the practical middle ground in residential HVAC equipment. Built on Goodman's proven platform but positioned at independent distributor pricing, this upflow configuration handles 100,000 BTU heating output paired with 42,000 BTU cooling capacity. At $647, it undercuts most brand-name alternatives significantly while maintaining Energy Star certification and solid component architecture that contractors respect for reliability in the field.

Performance specs tell a straightforward story: 97% AFUE furnace efficiency and 13 SEER cooling are modern-era standards that satisfy current code requirements without premium investment. The modulating burner stages mean the furnace adjusts flame intensity rather than cycling on-off like older models, reducing temperature swings and energy waste. Variable-speed ECM blower technology supports up to 2000 CFM, delivering conditioned air precisely when needed rather than constant full-volume operation. The 115V single-phase electrical requirement keeps installation straightforward in standard residential wiring.

Pros & Cons

Pros

97% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly, especially in colder climates
13 SEER cooling with Energy Star certification meets current efficiency standards affordably
Modulating burner stages optimize fuel consumption and comfort compared to single-stage alternatives
Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts output to 2000 CFM maximum, reducing energy waste
PVC/plastic exhaust compatibility simplifies venting in retrofit installations
$647 price point undercuts most comparable Goodman-branded systems by 15-25%

Cons

Single-stage compressor limits efficiency gains in partial-load conditions versus variable-speed options
75 dB noise level runs louder than premium units with sound-dampening features
Reciprocating compressor design less durable than scroll compressors in extended high-heat environments

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing aging furnace-AC combos in homes built before 2015, and contractors stocking reliable mid-tier equipment for price-sensitive customers. This works especially well in mixed climates where heating and cooling demands are balanced.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone prioritizing whisper-quiet operation or needing variable-stage compressor efficiency should explore premium units, as the 75 dB output and single-stage design sacrifice comfort refinement.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas F

$647

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Installation

Installation suits experienced HVAC technicians or qualified homeowners with systems knowledge. Upflow/horizontal configuration fits standard closet or utility room placement. Requires 23.9 to 40 amp breaker sizing depending on final electrical layout. PVC flue venting uses standard plastic fittings available at any supply house. Right-side flue location matters for ductwork planning, so verify your existing configuration before ordering. Allow 4-6 hours for complete changeout in retrofit scenarios.

Warranty & Reliability

10-year coverage on parts applies with online registration, standard for this equipment class. Covers compressor, heat exchanger, and blower components against manufacturing defects. Excludes wear items like capacitors and contactors after year one. Registration through ACiQ or Goodman's website activates coverage immediately. Documentation requires proof of purchase and installation date. Most claims process within 5-7 business days for approved components.

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	3.5 Ton
Valve Type	Sweat
Height	30"
Width	21"
Depth	21"
Resources	CAPF Installation Manual CAPF 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	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
Configuration	Upflow / Downflow
Flue Location	Right
Burner Stages	Modulating
Fuel Type	Propane, Natural Gas
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/8"
Length	30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 13 SEER compare to modern air conditioning standards? +

13 SEER meets current minimum federal efficiency requirements and ENERGY STAR qualifications. Newer SEER2 metrics rate this unit slightly lower, roughly equivalent to 11 SEER2. It's respectable for retrofit work but doesn't match 16+ SEER variable-stage units. Expect seasonal cooling efficiency appropriate for moderate climates, not high-heat regions.

Will this 3.5 Ton unit handle a 2000 square foot home? +

Generally yes in moderate climates, assuming reasonable insulation and ductwork. The 42,000 BTU cooling capacity suits homes with minimal solar gain. Northern regions with milder summers work well. Hot-climate homes in Arizona or Florida should upsize to 4 or 5 tons. Have your contractor run a Manual J load calculation to confirm tonnage before ordering.

What's the real-world efficiency difference between 97% AFUE and 95% AFUE? +

On a 100,000 BTU furnace, you recover 97,000 BTU versus 95,000 BTU from fuel input. That 2,000 BTU difference seems small until multiplied across a 5-month heating season. Homes averaging 40 million BTU monthly usage see approximately 10-15% annual fuel savings, translating to $150-250 yearly in natural gas cost reduction at current rates.

Is ACiQ a reliable brand or should I stick with Goodman? +

ACiQ is Goodman's independent distributor-focused line, using identical components and manufacturing. This specific model carries Goodman's AHRI certification (7424267) confirming matched performance. Field reliability matches mainstream Goodman equipment. The main difference is pricing structure and warranty administration. Both are legitimate, proven choices for residential HVAC.

Does the 10-year warranty cover labor costs? +

No, the warranty covers parts only. You pay technician labor if components fail after installation. Service calls during year one run $150-300 depending on your region. Extended service plans through your installer can cover labor, typically costing $200-400 upfront for furnace-plus-AC coverage over ten years.

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