Review
The ACiQ 3.5 ton combo system represents the practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market. At $3,136, it's positioned well below premium Lennox or Carrier systems while delivering measurable performance gains over basic single-stage units. This downflow configuration suits basement furnace placement, a common retrofit scenario, and the variable-speed blower motor addresses one of the biggest pain points contractors face on job sites: managing airflow consistency across multiple zones.
The heating side delivers 120,000 BTU output with 96% AFUE efficiency, meaning 96 cents of every energy dollar converts to warmth rather than exhaust loss. The cooling unit provides 42,000 BTU capacity at 14 SEER using an environmentally sound R410A refrigerant and reliable scroll compressor. The dual-stage burner adjusts flame intensity based on demand, reducing short cycling and improving humidity control. Maximum electrical draw sits at 35 amps on a standard 230V circuit, requiring no special panel upgrades in most homes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency exceeds most standard systems and qualifies for utility rebates
- 14 SEER cooling unit handles 3.5 ton capacity at reasonable price point of $3,136
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0 to 2,000 CFM for better comfort and lower operating costs
- Dual-stage burner provides more precise heating control and quieter operation than single-stage alternatives
- PVC/plastic exhaust flue requirement eliminates costly stainless steel venting in most installations
Cons
- 14 SEER is acceptable but not premium, lacking Energy Star certification that newer models offer
- Single-stage air conditioning condenser means less flexibility in partial-load cooling efficiency
- 73 dB noise level is noticeably louder than high-end systems with scroll compressors in quiet applications
- ACiQ brand carries less national brand recognition than Goodman or Lennox among some homeowners
Who Should Buy
Best For
This system fits homeowners in transitional climates who need both heating and cooling but have limited budgets, and contractors building spec homes where cost-per-unit matters. It's especially practical for replacement jobs where existing ductwork is compatible with downflow configuration.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this if you live in very hot climates where higher SEER ratings save more on cooling bills, or if you demand premium components and brand prestige at any price.
Installation
Downflow installation requires clear floor space beneath the unit, approximately 30 inches tall by 24.5 inches wide by 21 inches deep. The PVC exhaust flue requirement simplifies venting compared to stainless steel alternatives, reducing installation complexity and cost. Variable-speed motor tuning demands proper HVAC software calibration during commissioning. Most experienced technicians complete installation in one full day. Refrigerant lines up to 30 feet long provide flexibility for condenser placement.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides 10 years full parts coverage upon online registration, which takes under five minutes. This is solid mid-tier protection that covers compressor failure and heat exchanger defects, the two costliest failure points. Online registration is mandatory to activate coverage, so homeowners must complete this step at purchase. Evaporator coil carries separate Goodman warranty documentation included with purchase.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 120,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368845 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Energy Star | No |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | CAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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. |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 14 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 35 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 22 amps |
| Tonnage | 5 Ton |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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