Review
The ACiQ 3.5-ton horizontal system occupies a solid middle ground in residential HVAC equipment. Manufactured by Goodman under the ACiQ brand, this unit combines a gas furnace and air conditioning system into one package designed specifically for horizontal installation. It addresses a real market gap: contractors often struggle finding efficient equipment that fits tight attic spaces where traditional upflow units simply won't fit. The horizontal configuration with right-side flue exit makes this viable for many retrofit applications.
Heating performance stands out with 96% AFUE efficiency across 80,000 BTU output and two-stage burner operation. Cooling delivers 42,000 BTU with 13 SEER rating, Energy Star qualified. The variable-speed ECM blower adjusts to 1,600 CFM maximum, reducing runtime during partial-load conditions. Refrigerant is R410A in a reciprocating compressor configuration. Electrical requirements are modest at 115V single-phase, needing 23.9 to 40-amp breaker sizing, making this retrofit-friendly in existing homes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly, especially in cold climates
- 13 SEER cooling rating meets Energy Star standards for qualification in many rebate programs
- Two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower optimize comfort across heating and cooling cycles
- Horizontal A-coil configuration solves installation challenges in limited-space attics
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection against manufacturing defects
Cons
- 13 SEER is mid-range efficiency, not high-efficiency tier that qualifies for maximum utility rebates
- Single-stage compressor means cooling capacity doesn't modulate, leading to higher dehumidification costs
- 75 dBA operation is moderately loud compared to scroll compressor systems
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors and homeowners upgrading horizontal attic systems in moderate to cold climates who prioritize heating efficiency and need proven reliability. This system works well for homes without space for vertical configurations and where mid-range efficiency meets budget constraints.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in hot climates seeking maximum cooling efficiency, or those wanting premium variable-capacity cooling should evaluate higher-tier systems with two-stage compressors and SEER ratings above 15.
Installation
Installation fits horizontal attic spaces with 21-inch height, 21.125-inch width, and 26-inch depth. Suction and liquid lines come in 7/8-inch and 3/8-inch sizes respectively, both sweat connections. Requires PVC/plastic exhaust flue on right side. Variable-speed blower integration simplifies ductwork balance compared to single-speed units. Installers appreciate the straightforward electrical requirements. Suction line insulation at 3/8-inch thickness meets code in most jurisdictions. Overall, installation complexity is moderate.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage includes 10 years parts protection through Goodman's standard warranty with online registration. This protects against compressor failure, heat exchanger defects, and component manufacturing issues. Registration is quick and extends coverage automatically. For a system at this price point, 10-year terms are competitive. Labor costs still fall on homeowners, but the parts protection provides meaningful peace of mind across both heating and cooling components.
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) | 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 | 21" |
| Width | 21.125" |
| Depth | 26" |
| Resources | CHPF Installation Manual CHPF 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 | 7368835 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Horizontal |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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