Review
The Goodman ACiQ 3-ton upflow system positions itself in the accessible mid-market segment where contractors and homeowners balance performance against budget constraints. Priced at $736, it competes directly against builder-grade units while offering tangible efficiency upgrades. The combination of 96% AFUE heating and 13 SEER cooling aligns with modern efficiency standards, though the single-stage compressor and reciprocating design target reliability over cutting-edge performance.
Heating delivers 80,000 BTU through two burner stages, reaching 96% fuel efficiency that translates to measurable savings on monthly gas bills. Cooling capacity of 36,000 BTU at 13 SEER meets Energy Star requirements and uses eco-friendly R454B refrigerant. The variable-speed ECM blower can push up to 1,600 CFM and automatically adjusts to part-load conditions, preventing the constant cycling that wastes energy in traditional single-speed systems. Electrical requirements are modest, needing only a 19.1 to 30-amp circuit at 115V single phase.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs by roughly 15-20% versus older 80 AFUE units
- 13 SEER cooling efficiency with R454B refrigerant meets Energy Star standards
- Dual-fuel capability supports natural gas and propane for installation flexibility
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts to actual demand, improving comfort and reducing runtime
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides long-term protection on the most expensive component
- Two-stage burner operation minimizes cycling losses during partial heating loads
Cons
- Single-stage cooling compressor cannot modulate capacity, leading to higher energy use during mild weather
- 74 dB decibel rating falls into the louder range for outdoor condensers, noticeable to nearby properties
- Tonnage mismatch noted in specs: listed as both 3 ton and 3.5 ton, creating potential confusion on sizing
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors handling mid-range residential replacements and homeowners in moderate climates needing reliable heating and cooling without premium pricing. This system works best for homes with 2000-2500 square feet where efficiency gains deliver measurable utility savings within 5-7 years.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this if you need variable-capacity cooling for hot climates, require ultra-quiet operation near sleeping areas, or want SEER2 ratings above 14 for maximum efficiency.
Installation
Upflow/horizontal A-coil configuration requires proper ducting orientation and support structure, but installation complexity remains moderate. Suction line is 7/8 inch with 3/8 inch insulation thickness, liquid line is 3/8 inch. Right-side flue location demands flexible PVC exhaust routing. Total system footprint measures 34.5 inches tall and 21 inches wide, fitting standard closets and utility rooms without major framing.
Warranty & Reliability
Lifetime heat exchanger warranty covers the costliest component indefinitely, while parts carry 10-year coverage with online registration required. This protection reflects Goodman's confidence in reciprocating compressor and coil durability. Registration is quick and necessary to activate the extended parts warranty, protecting you against compressor failure costs exceeding $1,200.
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
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