Review
This Goodman 3.5 ton combo system pairs a gas furnace with an air conditioning condenser designed for downflow installation. With an 80,000 BTU heating capacity and 42,000 BTU cooling capacity, it targets the mainstream residential replacement market where both heating and cooling run regularly. The system carries a 10-year warranty when registered, uses environmentally friendly R410A refrigerant, and qualifies for ENERGY STAR certification.
The furnace achieves 96% AFUE efficiency, meaning 96 cents of every heating dollar converts to usable heat. The AC side delivers 14 SEER1 cooling efficiency, placing it above the 13 SEER federal minimum and roughly equivalent to mid-range residential equipment. The variable-speed ECM blower motor provides significant efficiency gains over traditional single-speed designs, adjusting airflow between 0-1600 CFM based on actual demand rather than running at full capacity constantly.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace rating ranks among the best for gas heating, translating to 4 BTU of heat per dollar spent on fuel
- 14 SEER cooling efficiency meets ENERGY STAR requirements and beats minimum 13 SEER federal standards by a meaningful margin
- Variable speed ECM blower motor adjusts to actual demand, reducing wasted runtime and lowering utility bills by 10-15% versus single-speed units
- Two-stage burner on furnace prevents short cycling and maintains comfort without constant on-off cycling
- Scroll compressor proven reliable technology with 10-year warranty including parts and labor when registered online
Cons
- Single-stage cooling compressor cannot modulate capacity, so it runs at full 42,000 BTU output even during mild weather
- 73 dB noise level is slightly loud for residential use, particularly noticeable during compressor operation on cooling days
- Downflow configuration limits installation flexibility, requiring basement or attic placement with adequate clearance below ductwork
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners with existing downflow or horizontal ductwork who need to replace a furnace and AC unit in one project. This system makes financial sense for those in mixed climates where heating and cooling both run regularly, delivering quick ROI through lower monthly energy bills.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers prioritizing whisper-quiet operation or those needing upflow-only configurations should explore competing single-stage systems or variable capacity alternatives, though they will pay more upfront.
Installation
Downflow configuration requires installation above the living space, typically in an attic or mechanical closet with adequate return air access below. The system uses standard 3/8 inch liquid lines and 7/8 inch suction lines with 3/8 inch insulation, compatible with most existing ductwork. PVC exhaust piping required for furnace flue. Installation demands HVAC certification but no unusual complications for experienced contractors.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year parts and labor warranty activates upon online registration and covers manufacturing defects on the furnace, condenser, and scroll compressor. This is competitive for mid-tier equipment but requires prompt registration. Coverage excludes normal wear items like filters and refrigerant top-ups related to installation errors or non-professional service.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| 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 |
| 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 | 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 |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| 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.