Review
The ACiQ-Goodman 3.5-ton combo unit occupies a unique market position: full-featured enough for legitimate residential comfort, yet priced low enough to appeal to budget-conscious buyers. This system combines ACiQ's outdoor condenser with Goodman's furnace components, creating a competent mid-tier option that avoids premium pricing while maintaining respectable performance metrics. At $647, it undercuts many comparable units by 25-35%, though this comes with expected trade-offs in compressor sophistication and acoustic performance.
On the heating side, the unit delivers 100,000 BTU capacity with two-stage burner control and an impressive 96% AFUE rating, meaning 96 cents of every fuel dollar converts to usable heat. Cooling output reaches 42,000 BTU at 13 SEER efficiency, backed by a reciprocating compressor and sweat-style valve connections. The variable-speed ECM blower motor can push 2,000 CFM maximum airflow while automatically adjusting to part-load conditions, reducing waste compared to constant-speed alternatives.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional price at $647 for a complete 3.5-ton system with dual-fuel capability
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency exceeds most competitor units in this price range
- 13 SEER rating meets Energy Star standards and qualifies for many utility rebates
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor reduces runtime and energy consumption versus single-speed models
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides peace of mind on the most expensive component
- Upflow A-coil configuration works in most residential installations without costly modifications
Cons
- Single-stage cooling compressor cannot modulate capacity, reducing efficiency during mild weather periods
- 42,000 cooling BTU output is modest, requiring careful sizing for larger homes or hot climates
- 75 dB noise level runs louder than higher-tier models with scroll compressors
- R410A refrigerant phase-out means future servicing may become costlier as supplies tighten
Who Should Buy
Best For
This system suits homeowners in moderate climates replacing failed equipment on tight budgets, plus contractors building spec homes where cost control matters more than premium features. It's particularly attractive for upflow installations in basements or crawlspaces where ducting is already established.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this unit if you live in extreme heat regions (Arizona, southern Texas, Louisiana) where the 42,000 BTU cooling capacity will struggle with peak demand, or if you need ultra-quiet operation under 70 dB.
Installation
Installation requires standard split-system procedures: outdoor condenser placement, 30-foot refrigerant line runs with 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines, and 115V single-phase electrical service. The upflow A-coil design fits most basements and crawlspace applications without ductwork redesign. Techs should note the 40-amp maximum breaker requirement and verify existing electrical capacity before scheduling installation.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs the heat exchanger with lifetime coverage after online registration, protecting the costliest furnace component indefinitely. All other parts receive 10-year coverage through the same registration process. This warranty structure is competitive for the price point, though homeowners must complete registration to activate coverage, otherwise protection drops to one year.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Lifetime Heat Exchanger and 10 Years Parts 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 | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Install Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman 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. |
| Configuration | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368836 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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