Review
ACiQ's Goodman-branded 3.5-ton split system occupies the practical middle ground of residential cooling equipment. At 14 SEER1 efficiency and 42,000 BTU output, this unit targets replacement markets where homeowners need dependable cooling without premium costs. The single-stage scroll compressor and straightforward electrical requirements (208/230/240V, 1 phase) make it familiar territory for established HVAC contractors, which translates to lower installation hassles and faster service calls down the road.
Performance specs read like honest engineering rather than marketing hype. The 42,000 BTU cooling capacity handles typical 3.5-ton loads effectively, while 14 SEER1 delivers roughly 25-30 percent better efficiency than 10-SEER units from the early 2000s. Noise runs 73 dB at full capacity, which is present but not exceptional. The multi-speed EEM blower motor maxes out at 2,225 CFM, allowing contractors to size ductwork predictably without variable-speed complications.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 14 SEER1 efficiency rating meets mid-tier performance expectations and lowers cooling costs compared to older 10-13 SEER equipment
- Single-stage scroll compressor design is reliable, field-proven, and straightforward for HVAC technicians to maintain and service
- Multi-speed EEM blower motor with 2,225 CFM maximum airflow balances comfort with operational flexibility
- Accepts 5-20 kW electric heat options, making it adaptable for hybrid heating applications in cold climates
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage for residential installations
Cons
- 73 dB noise level runs louder than variable-capacity competitors, noticeable during peak cooling cycles
- Not Energy Star certified, limiting appeal to energy-conscious buyers and missing efficiency rebates in some regions
- Single-stage operation means the compressor runs full-load or off with no part-load efficiency, wasting energy on partial-load days
- R410A refrigerant requires certified technicians and proper recovery procedures, adding service costs
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors installing replacement systems in established homes where cost and simplicity matter more than cutting-edge efficiency. Homeowners in moderate climates upgrading from 1990s-2000s equipment who want reliable cooling without premium pricing.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers prioritizing maximum efficiency, quiet operation, or Energy Star certification should examine 16+ SEER variable-capacity models instead.
Installation
Installation demands standard practices for split systems. Requires 57-60 amp breaker capacity on circuit one and 50 amp on circuit two. Liquid line uses 3/8-inch copper with 3/8-inch insulation, suction line runs 7/8-inch with matching insulation, maximum line set length is 30 feet. Straightforward refrigerant connections and electrical terminations appeal to established technicians, though R410A recovery and evacuation procedures remain mandatory.
Warranty & Reliability
Ten-year parts coverage applies with online registration, standard for residential split systems. Covers compressor, coil, and component failures under normal use. Registration requirement is simple but mandatory to activate full protection. Does not cover refrigerant loss, improper installation, or lack of maintenance.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-4X-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 42,000 |
| Heating BTU | 68,200 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 / 240 Volts / 1 Phase |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | No |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 14 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | Circuit 1: 60 amps / Circuit 2: 50 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | Circuit 1: 57 amps / Circuit 2: 50 amps |
| Tonnage | 4 Ton |
| Height | 58" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | Goodman Installation Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Kit Installation Manual 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. |
| Blower Motor | Multi Speed - EEM |
| Maximum CFM | 2,225 |
| Electric Backup Heat Capabilities (Optional) | 5 Kilowatts, 8 Kilowatts, 10 Kilowatts, 15 Kilowatts, 20 Kilowatts |
| Filter Size | 23" x 20" |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Fuel Type | Electric |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
| Electric Heat | 20 Kilowatts |
| Phase | Single Phase |
Frequently Asked Questions
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