Review
The ACiQ 3.5 ton downflow system bridges a real gap in the HVAC market for retrofit and constrained-space installations. This compact unit measures just 30 inches tall by 21 inches wide and deep, making it a viable solution for attics, basements, and horizontal installations where traditional upflow furnaces simply won't fit. Goodman's manufacturing heritage backs the engineering here, though the ACiQ brand positions this as a contractor-focused alternative to premium options.
The furnace delivers impressive 96% AFUE efficiency with dual-stage burners that modulate heat output based on demand. Cooling capacity reaches 42,000 BTU with 14 SEER performance using R410A refrigerant. The variable-speed ECM blower is the real efficiency workhorse, adjusting motor speed to match heating and cooling needs while keeping noise levels reasonable at 73 dBA. Maximum airflow hits 1600 CFM, adequate for homes up to roughly 2000 square feet.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent 96% AFUE furnace efficiency, among the highest available for gas furnaces
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor reduces energy consumption and noise to 73 dBA
- Downflow/horizontal configuration solves installation challenges in tight spaces
- Two-stage burner provides modulating heat output for consistent comfort
- 10-year warranty with online registration offers solid coverage for parts and labor
Cons
- 3.5 ton cooling capacity undersizes the 80,000 BTU heating output, creating heating/cooling imbalance for many climates
- 14 SEER rating is solid but not exceptional compared to newer 15+ SEER systems from competitors
- No Energy Star certification despite high efficiency claims
- Maximum airflow at 1600 CFM limits suitability for larger homes over 2000 square feet
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors retrofitting homes with space constraints and homeowners upgrading older furnaces in basements or attics where standard upflow installation isn't possible. This system is ideal for split-system replacements in moderate climates where heating demand doesn't drastically exceed cooling needs.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone seeking the latest efficiency standards should compare current 15+ SEER or SEER2-rated units, as 14 SEER is becoming the baseline rather than premium performance.
Installation
Installation requires PVC or plastic exhaust flue for the furnace and standard 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines for the cooling circuit. The unit operates on 208/230V single-phase 60Hz power with breaker requirements between 22 and 35 amps. Downflow configuration simplifies installation in basement and attic applications, though proper ductwork design remains critical for performance.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year warranty covers parts and labor when you register the system online. This is solid protection but requires proof of online registration at installation. Coverage mirrors industry standards for this price point, though some competitors now offer 12-year warranties.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| 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 | 7368843 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Energy Star | No |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 21" |
| 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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