3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This ACiQ unit delivers excellent heating efficiency (96% AFUE) and solid cooling performance (13 SEER, 42,000 BTU) for homeowners seeking a budget-friendly 3.5-ton system. At $647, it's positioned as a value option without significant performance compromises, particularly for contractors managing cost-sensitive residential retrofits in mild to moderate climates.

Review

The ACiQ ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG represents the no-frills approach to HVAC: solid baseline performance at a price that doesn't demand compromise. This 3.5-ton combo system bundles a 96% AFUE gas furnace with 42,000 BTU cooling capacity into an upflow A-coil configuration. At $647, it undercuts most competitors while maintaining ENERGY STAR certification on the cooling side. The unit targets contractors and homeowners tired of premium pricing but unwilling to sacrifice fundamental efficiency standards.

Heating performance is the standout here: 96% AFUE means 96 cents of every dollar spent on gas becomes usable heat, with only 4% lost up the flue. The 80,000 BTU capacity handles moderate heating loads reliably. Cooling delivers 42,000 BTU at 13 SEER, which is respectable but not exceptional. Two-stage burner control and a variable-speed ECM blower motor balance comfort against energy consumption. However, the single-stage reciprocating compressor lacks the modulation sophistication of pricier models, potentially affecting part-load efficiency and dehumidification.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE heating efficiency meets or exceeds most modern furnace standards, reducing heating costs year-round
13 SEER cooling rating qualifies as ENERGY STAR certified, offering solid air conditioning efficiency
Two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower motor optimize comfort and reduce energy waste across operating conditions
Aggressive $647 pricing makes this accessible for budget-conscious homeowners and contractors
10-year warranty with online registration provides reasonable coverage for parts and labor protection

Cons

Single-stage compressor limits cooling modulation, which may increase cycling noise and reduce humidity control in variable climates
75 dB noise level registers as moderately loud, potentially noticeable in quiet neighborhoods or bedroom placement
3.5-ton capacity is undersized for homes above 1,600 square feet in hot climates, requiring careful load calculations

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates upgrading older furnaces or contractors managing replacement jobs with budget constraints. This system works best for homes under 1,800 square feet where standard efficiency and straightforward operation outweigh premium modulation features.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in extreme climates (hot Southwest or cold Northern regions) needing premium cooling modulation, or customers prioritizing whisper-quiet operation should consider higher SEER units with variable-speed compressors.

3.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu

$647

Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation requires standard 115V, 1-phase electrical service with 23.9 to 40-amp breaker capacity, standard for most residential homes. The upflow configuration fits typical basement or utility closet placement. Lineset connections use 3/8-inch and 7/8-inch sweat valves, manageable for experienced HVAC technicians. PVC plastic flue compatibility simplifies venting. Expect 4 to 6 hours for a straightforward replacement in existing ductwork, longer for new installations.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts warranty (activated via online registration) covers compressor, coil, and furnace components, which is industry-standard for this price tier. Labor coverage extends the protection value for homeowners. Registration is quick and essential to activate the full term. This warranty is adequate for residential duty but doesn't extend to commercial or rental properties.

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	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	7368835
Airflow Direction	Upflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Plastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	96%
Blower Motor	Variable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM	1600
Configuration	Upflow / Downflow
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

Is 13 SEER cooling performance adequate for summer comfort? +

Yes, for moderate climates and homes under 1,800 square feet. 13 SEER delivers solid cooling at 42,000 BTU capacity. However, in hot climates (Phoenix, Miami) or larger homes, you may feel temperature swing between compressor cycles due to the single-stage design. Load calculations are critical before purchase.

What electrical service does this furnace require? +

115V single-phase 60Hz service with a breaker rated 23.9 to 40 amps minimum. This is standard in homes with existing central air systems. Check your electrical panel capacity before installation. Most homes have available space, but older panels may require expansion.

How does the two-stage burner improve heating efficiency? +

The two-stage burner runs at reduced capacity during mild heating periods, minimizing cycling losses and keeping the furnace closer to optimal efficiency. Only during peak cold does it fire at full 80,000 BTU output. This maximizes the 96% AFUE rating across varied outdoor temperatures.

How does this compare to higher-priced 16 SEER or 18 SEER systems? +

Premium units offer multi-stage compressors and variable refrigerant flow for 15 to 25 percent better cooling efficiency. The 13 SEER unit saves $1,500 to $3,000 upfront. For moderate climates and shorter ownership timelines, payback is marginal. Hot climates justify the premium.

Does online warranty registration cover the entire 10 years automatically? +

No, registration is required to activate the full 10-year term. Without it, coverage drops to a shorter period (typically 5 years). Complete registration immediately after installation through the manufacturer's website using your serial number and purchase proof.

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