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

// Bottom Line

This 3-ton combo system suits homeowners in moderate climates who want solid efficiency without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace and 13 SEER AC unit deliver measurable energy savings, and the variable-speed ECM blower adapts to your home's actual heating and cooling needs.

Review

The ACiQ 3-ton horizontal combo system pairs a Goodman gas furnace with an air conditioning condenser in one integrated package. This unit targets the middle market, offering respectable efficiency without the premium cost of variable-capacity compressors or ultra-high AFUE ratings. It's marketed as a straightforward replacement for older Goodman units, with compatible dimensions and electrical requirements suitable for standard residential installations.

Performance specifications show a 96% AFUE furnace producing 80,000 BTU heating output with two-stage burner capability. The AC condenser delivers 36,000 BTU cooling capacity at 13 SEER1 efficiency, though cooling is single-stage only. The variable-speed ECM blower motor reaches 1,600 CFM maximum and adjusts automatically to reduce energy waste during partial-load operation. Electrical draw ranges from 19.1 to 30 amps at 115V single phase, fitting standard home circuits.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating fuel consumption and lowers winter utility bills significantly
13 SEER cooling rating qualifies for Energy Star certification, meeting modern efficiency standards
Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts output dynamically, improving comfort and reducing runtime waste
Two-stage burner allows modulating heat output for better temperature control and efficiency
Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides peace of mind on the furnace's core component

Cons

Single-stage compressor in AC unit means cooling capacity runs at full power or off, less modulation than two-stage competitors
74 dB noise level ranks on the higher side for outdoor condenser units during peak operation
R454B refrigerant is newer and may have limited technician familiarity in some rural markets

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing aging 10-15 year old furnace and AC systems who prioritize heating efficiency and want a reasonably priced combination unit. This system works best in moderate climates where both heating and cooling load are significant.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in extremely hot climates needing maximum cooling modulation should consider two-stage compressors, and buyers in very cold regions may want higher-AFUE models approaching 98%.

3 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furn

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Installation

The horizontal A-coil configuration suits attics or utility closets with space constraints. Physical dimensions are 34.5 inches tall, 21 inches wide, and 28.75 inches deep, weighing 120 pounds total. Refrigerant lines require 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction connections with 3/8-inch insulation. The plastic flue outlet on the right side must vent through PVC ducting. Professional installation is strongly recommended for proper line commissioning and gas pressure calibration.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman covers the heat exchanger for the unit's lifetime and all parts for 10 years, with online registration required. This lifetime heat exchanger protection is valuable since that component represents the bulk of furnace replacement cost. The 10-year parts coverage aligns with typical system life, though compressors and controls may have separate shorter warranties depending on the specific failure mode.

Specifications

SKU	ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG
Brand/Manufacturer	ACiQ
Cooling BTU	36,000
Heating BTU	80,000
Refrigerant	R454B
Electrical	115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	Lifetime Heat Exchanger and 10 Years Parts with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	74
Weight (in lbs)	120.000000
Feature	Spec
Replaces	GSX130362, GSX130363, GSX130365
Energy Star	Yes
SEER1 (Efficiency)	13
Condenser Stages	Single Stage
Compressor Type	Reciprocating
Liquid Valve Size	3/8"
Suction Valve Size	3/4"
Max Breaker Size	30 amps
Min. Breaker Size	19.1 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
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	7/8"
Style	A-Coil
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
Flue Location	Right
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Propane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/8"
Length	30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the 96% AFUE compare to other furnaces on the market? +

96% AFUE sits in the efficient-but-not-premium tier. High-efficiency models reach 98-99%, but this unit avoids the condensing flue complexity and cost increase. For homeowners heating 8-10 months annually, the fuel savings justify the modest upgrade from 90-92% models, typically recovering the cost difference in 3-5 years.

What does single-stage cooling mean for my comfort? +

The compressor runs at full capacity or shuts off, without intermediate speeds. Two-stage or variable units modulate output better in mild weather, reducing on/off cycling and improving temperature stability. You'll still stay comfortable, but expect slightly more frequent cycling during shoulder seasons like spring and fall.

Is R454B refrigerant a concern for future service? +

R454B is the EPA-approved replacement for R-410A and becoming industry standard. Newer HVAC technicians are trained on it. Older shops may stock less, potentially delaying repairs in rural areas. Ask your local contractors about their R454B experience before purchasing, especially if service options are limited.

How does this combo unit compare to separate furnace and AC purchases? +

Combo units simplify installation and ensure compatibility, but offer less flexibility. You cannot upgrade furnace or AC separately later without replacing both. Separate units cost more upfront but allow staged replacements and independent efficiency choices as technology evolves.

Does online warranty registration really matter? +

Yes. Without registration, coverage drops to the shorter manufacturer default warranty. Registration adds no cost and takes minutes online. Save your purchase receipt and register immediately to activate the full 10-year parts and lifetime heat exchanger coverage.

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