Review
The Goodman 3.5-ton downflow system lands in the practical middle ground of the HVAC market. This combination unit bundles an 80,000 BTU gas furnace with 42,000 BTU cooling capacity, eliminating compatibility guesswork. It carries ENERGY STAR certification and uses R410A refrigerant. The downflow A-coil configuration fits basements, utility closets, and tight crawlspaces where horizontal routing works. Contractors appreciate the straightforward design and honest performance without unnecessary complexity.
Heating dominates the efficiency story here. The 97% AFUE rating means 97 cents of every heating dollar converts to usable warmth, a substantial improvement over 80-85% baseline equipment. A modulating burner adjusts flame output continuously rather than running full-blast or shutting off completely, reducing temperature swings and runtime waste. On the cooling side, 14 SEER1 efficiency paired with 42,000 BTU capacity delivers respectable summer performance. The variable-speed ECM blower adjusts automatically, pulling up to 1600 CFM when needed and backing off otherwise, reducing parasitic energy draw.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE heating efficiency reduces winter utility bills significantly versus standard 80-85% furnaces
- Modulating burner stages adjust heat output in real-time, improving comfort and reducing short-cycling
- 14 SEER cooling rating with 42,000 BTU capacity meets ENERGY STAR standards
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor optimizes airflow between 1-1600 CFM, cutting electricity costs
- Downflow A-coil design accommodates tight basement or closet installations easily
Cons
- Single-stage compressor provides less precise cooling control than two-stage alternatives in variable weather
- 73 dBA noise level is moderate, noticeably audible during heating cycles in quiet homes
- Spec sheet lists both 3.5-ton and 5-ton ratings, creating confusion about actual cooling capacity
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors installing replacements in existing homes with tight foundation spaces and homeowners in cold-to-moderate climates who prioritize heating efficiency and want reliable mid-tier equipment. The modulating burner and 97% AFUE make winter heating noticeably cheaper than older furnace models.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in hot climates seeking year-round efficiency should explore two-stage compressors instead, and those needing whisper-quiet operation should audition equipment before committing.
Installation
Installation requires 115V, 1-phase 60 Hz power with breaker sizing between 22-35 amps. PVC or plastic exhaust flue venting works, simplifying ductwork modifications. The unit weighs 120 pounds and measures 34.5 inches tall, 21 inches wide, and 28.75 inches deep, fitting standard mechanical room spaces. Suction and liquid line sizes are 7/8 inch and 3/8 inch respectively, with 3/8 inch insulation pre-wrapped for 30 feet of line run. Standard HVAC installation labor applies.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year parts warranty covers internal failures and refrigerant leaks, though online registration is required to activate it. This duration matches mid-tier competitors but falls short of premium manufacturers offering 12-year coverage. Ten years provides solid protection for typical equipment lifespan, assuming proper maintenance and correct installation. Review registration requirements at purchase time to avoid missing deadlines.
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 | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Installation 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 | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424271 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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