Review
The ACiQ 3.5-ton vertical uncased coil represents straightforward cooling equipment for contractors who value reliability over cutting-edge efficiency metrics. Marketed under the Goodman brand umbrella, this reciprocating-compressor unit delivers 42,000 BTU of cooling capacity with a 13 SEER rating, hitting the practical sweet spot for systems prioritizing durability and installation flexibility. At $0 (likely a pricing error or special promotion), it positions itself as an economical choice in a market increasingly dominated by variable-capacity and premium-efficiency alternatives.
Performance specs reflect conventional engineering rather than innovation. The 13 SEER1 efficiency rating meets baseline standards but trails modern 16+ SEER alternatives by roughly 20 percent in seasonal efficiency. A reciprocating compressor runs at single-stage capacity, meaning it cycles on and off rather than modulating output, reducing part-load efficiency during mild weather. The unit operates at 75 dB, which is audible but acceptable for most non-residential locations. Electrical requirements of 208/230V single-phase at 40-amp maximum breaker size allow installation in facilities with standard commercial or residential service.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 42,000 BTU capacity covers full 3.5-ton cooling load effectively
- 13 SEER efficiency meets baseline standards with proven reciprocating compressor technology
- Flexible 208/230V single-phase electrical allows wider installation compatibility
- Lightweight at 120 lbs for easier handling and installation logistics
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection
Cons
- 75 dB noise level is moderately loud for residential settings, especially in quiet neighborhoods
- Single-stage compressor cannot modulate capacity, limiting efficiency during mild weather operation
- Not Energy Star certified, meaning higher operating costs versus modern SEER 16+ units
- R410A refrigerant increasingly being phased out for newer low-GWP alternatives
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors installing complete budget systems in commercial or residential applications, and homeowners replacing failed coils in existing equipment with similar specifications. This unit makes sense when cooling capacity matters more than energy efficiency optimization.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers prioritizing Energy Star certification, noise-sensitive installations, or long-term energy savings should explore units with variable-capacity compressors and higher SEER ratings.
Installation
Installation complexity is low to moderate. The A-coil vertical 24.5-inch configuration fits standard 30-inch depth equipment clearances in closets and attics. Suction line comes pre-insulated at 3/8-inch thickness, reducing field preparation. Sweat-type connections on both 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines require basic soldering skills. Upflow and downflow configurations provide flexibility, though matching outdoor condenser tonnage rating remains critical for system balance.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides 10-year coverage on compressor and components when registered online, a legitimate protection tier for budget equipment. This warranty covers manufacturing defects but excludes wear items and installation errors. Online registration is required to activate coverage, a common industry practice. For contractors, this warranty supports service calls within the first decade; for homeowners, it represents reasonable equipment protection without premium annual service agreements.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 75 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | No |
| 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 Ton to 3.5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 28" |
| Width | 23" |
| Depth | 20 1/8" |
| Resources | CAUF Installation Manual CAUF 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. |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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