Review
The ACiQ 3.5 ton upflow system occupies an unusual market position: it's a legitimate combo unit at pricing that undercuts most competitors, yet carries some confusing specifications. This 36,000 BTU air conditioner pairs with a 100,000 BTU furnace, making it better suited to heating-dominant climates. The system carries Energy Star certification and uses modern R454B refrigerant, positioning it as environmentally responsible without premium costs.
Efficiency numbers are genuinely impressive for the price tier. The furnace delivers 96% AFUE across two burner stages, and the air conditioner achieves 13 SEER1 rating with a single-stage reciprocating compressor. The variable-speed ECM blower motor handles up to 2000 CFM, allowing the system to adapt airflow based on heating or cooling demand. However, single-stage cooling means the compressor runs at full capacity or not at all, lacking the efficiency advantage of variable-capacity systems in mild weather.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency matches premium brands, reducing heating costs significantly
- 13 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for Energy Star certification and many utility rebates
- Variable speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0 to 2000 CFM for comfort and efficiency
- Two-stage burner allows furnace to run at reduced capacity during mild weather, saving fuel
- R454B refrigerant is low-GWP and environmentally responsible compared to older R410A systems
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers both heating and cooling components
Cons
- Single-stage compressor cannot modulate cooling capacity, cycling on and off rather than ramping up and down for efficiency
- 74 dB noise level is moderately loud for an outdoor condenser, noticeable during operation
- Product title claims 100,000 BTU furnace but specs show 3.5 ton cooling at only 36,000 BTU, creating heating/cooling mismatch
- Reciprocating compressor is older technology compared to scroll compressors in competing systems
- No SEER2 rating listed, only SEER1, making direct comparison with newer products difficult
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors seeking affordable combo systems for residential retrofit installations in regions with moderate heating and cooling loads will appreciate the pricing and 96% AFUE efficiency. Homeowners in mixed climates who can live with single-stage cooling and prioritize heating efficiency will find strong value here.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this system if you need high-efficiency cooling (consider 14+ SEER), operate in hot climates where AC runs constantly, require quiet operation below 72 dB, or need variable-capacity cooling for maximum comfort.
Installation
Upflow/horizontal configuration fits attic or closet installations with 30 inch height clearance. Requires plastic PVC exhaust flue and standard 115V single-phase 60Hz power, with breaker sizing between 19.1 and 30 amps. Refrigerant lines use standard 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction connections with 3/8 inch insulation thickness. Professional installation strongly recommended for proper charging and ductwork integration.
Warranty & Reliability
10-year parts warranty covers both furnace and air conditioner when you register online, eliminating the need to pay extra for extended coverage. This matches industry standard for mid-tier equipment. Registration is straightforward and unlocks the full coverage period. Labor costs remain buyer responsibility, but the parts protection provides solid financial security for system replacement scenarios.
Specifications
| SKU | ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years 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 | 30" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | CAPF Installation Manual CAPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil 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. |
| 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 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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