Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

96% AFUE furnace paired with 14 SEER air conditioning for solid year-round efficiency

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman combo system delivers excellent heating efficiency at 96% AFUE with two-stage burners and solid 14 SEER cooling through a variable-speed ECM blower. It's an ideal choice for homeowners replacing older systems or contractors looking for dependable performance without premium pricing.

Review

The Goodman 3.5-ton combo system bridges affordability and performance in the mid-market HVAC space. This upflow unit combines a 96% AFUE gas furnace with 100,000 BTU heating output alongside a 14 SEER air conditioner rated for 42,000 BTU cooling. The system is ENERGY STAR certified and backed by solid documentation including installation instructions, service manuals, and technical specifications. It's a straightforward replacement choice for contractors and homeowners seeking dependable climate control without cutting corners.

Performance specs reflect engineering built for real-world conditions. The two-stage burner system provides efficiency gains by running at reduced capacity on milder heating days. Cooling operates via a scroll compressor with R410A refrigerant, pushing 42,000 BTU through 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines. The variable-speed ECM blower runs at 115V single-phase, requiring 22 to 35 amp breakers. Maximum airflow capacity reaches 2,000 CFM, allowing comfortable distribution across typical 3.5-ton applications without static pressure issues.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE heating efficiency with two-stage burners reduces fuel waste and monthly heating bills
  • 14 SEER cooling rating meets Energy Star standards, delivering 42,000 BTU of air conditioning capacity
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0 to 2,000 CFM for comfort and efficiency
  • Plastic/PVC exhaust flue reduces installation complexity compared to metal vent requirements
  • Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides long-term protection against costly repairs

Cons

  • Single-stage air conditioning compressor cannot modulate cooling capacity, reducing efficiency in mild weather
  • 73 dB noise level is slightly louder than variable-stage competitors during operation
  • A-coil configuration requires proper condensate drainage planning in upflow installations

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 10+ year old systems will see real savings from the 96% AFUE rating. Contractors appreciate the straightforward upflow design, standard R410A refrigerant, and reasonable footprint (34.5 inches tall, 21 inches wide) that fits most utility closets.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in consistently hot climates prioritizing cooling efficiency should consider two-stage compressor systems, as this single-stage design performs at maximum capacity even during mild days.

3.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas F
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Installation

Upflow orientation makes this unit suitable for basement utility rooms or side-by-side cabinet installations. The A-coil configuration requires attention to condensate drain placement to prevent water damage. Refrigerant lines use standard 3/8-inch and 7/8-inch sizing, keeping supply chains predictable. PVC exhaust venting simplifies ductwork compared to metal requirements. Height of 34.5 inches fits most vertical spaces; width and depth measurements are 21 and 28.75 inches respectively.

Warranty & Reliability

Coverage includes a lifetime heat exchanger warranty plus 10 years parts protection with online registration. This is above-average compared to basic five-year programs. The lifetime exchanger protection matters significantly since replacing this component typically costs $1,200 to $2,000 on service calls. Online registration takes minutes and removes doubt about coverage validity during claims.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU42,000
Heating BTU100,000
RefrigerantR410A
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
WarrantyLifetime Heat Exchanger and 10 Years Parts with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)14
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Max Breaker Size35 amps
Min. Breaker Size22 amps
Tonnage5 Ton
Height34.5"
Width21"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman 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 InformationPROPOSITION 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.
ConfigurationUpflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7368836
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2000
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/8"
Length30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 96% AFUE actually save me on heating costs? +
At 96% AFUE, approximately 96 cents of every heating dollar goes toward warming your home. Upgrading from an 80% AFUE system saves roughly 17 percent on fuel consumption annually. Real savings depend on climate, thermostat settings, and insulation quality. In cold regions, expect $200 to $400 annual savings on natural gas or propane bills.
Can this system handle my three-bedroom home in an upflow configuration? +
The 3.5-ton capacity and 2,000 CFM maximum airflow work well for typical 1,400 to 1,800 square foot homes. Upflow design requires proper ductwork sizing and return air path planning. Have a contractor perform a Manual J load calculation to confirm tonnage matches your specific home's insulation, window area, and climate zone.
How does 14 SEER cooling compare to newer systems? +
14 SEER meets Energy Star requirements and represents solid mid-tier efficiency. Newer two-stage units reach 16 to 18 SEER by modulating compressor speed. This single-stage design provides excellent value for moderate climates but runs continuously at full load in hot conditions, reducing comparative efficiency during peak summer months.
Is the scroll compressor reliable for 15+ years? +
Scroll compressors are proven technology with strong track records in residential HVAC. Longevity depends heavily on proper refrigerant charge, clean airflow, and maintenance. This unit's R410A refrigerant is industry standard. Manufacturer track record and the 10-year parts warranty suggest confidence in component durability and availability.
What does the lifetime heat exchanger warranty actually cover? +
This covers defects in the heat exchanger (the core heating component) for the system's entire lifespan, regardless of when you need service. It does not cover labor costs or refrigerant charges. Online registration is mandatory, so complete this immediately after installation to activate coverage.

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