Review
The Goodman 3-ton gas furnace and air conditioner system represents a pragmatic middle ground in the residential HVAC market. At $643, this ACiQ-packaged unit delivers 60,000 BTU heating capacity paired with 36,000 BTU cooling in an upflow configuration suitable for basements and attics. Energy Star certification signals mainstream efficiency standards without the premium pricing of high-efficiency boutique brands, making it accessible for homeowners managing equipment replacement budgets.
Performance metrics tell a solid story. The 96% AFUE furnace converts almost all incoming gas to usable heat, a meaningful jump from the 80-85% efficiency of units from 2010 and earlier. Cooling arrives at 13 SEER1, generating acceptable cooling-season efficiency without variable-stage complexity. Two-stage burner modulation reduces cycling losses, while the multi-speed ECM blower adjusts airflow from 0-1200 CFM based on demand. These design choices prioritize steady-state comfort over extreme modulation found in premium alternatives.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means lower gas bills compared to older units, translating to real savings on heating costs
- 13 SEER cooling qualifies for Energy Star, reducing summer electricity consumption versus 10-SEER predecessors
- Two-stage burner and multi-speed ECM blower enable better modulation, improving comfort and reducing short cycling
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides substantial protection against costly furnace failure
- R454B refrigerant meets current environmental standards without requiring expensive retrofit retrofitting
Cons
- Single-stage compressor limits cooling efficiency compared to variable-capacity or two-stage units in higher tonnage classes
- 74 dB noise level is moderately loud for an outdoor condenser, noticeable in quiet neighborhoods
- Reciprocating compressor technology is older and generally louder than scroll designs found in premium units
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 10-15 year old systems who prioritize upfront affordability without sacrificing baseline efficiency ratings. Contractors installing multiple units annually for budget-conscious customers seeking reliable mid-tier performance.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in extremely hot climates where higher SEER ratings justify premium pricing, or homeowners with noise sensitivity concerns near bedroom windows or adjacent properties.
Installation
Standard field installation applies straightforward practices. The unit accepts 3/8-inch liquid lines and 7/8-inch suction lines with 3/8-inch insulation thickness, matching common contractor stock components. PVC flue compatibility suits modern venting without cast-iron ductwork replacement. Single-phase 115V electrical input requires a 19.1 to 30-amp breaker, manageable on most residential panels. Upflow airflow direction and A-coil design fit typical basement and attic placements encountered in retrofit work.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage breaks down as follows: lifetime protection on the heat exchanger addresses the furnace's most expensive failure point, while 10-year replacement and 10-year parts coverage through online registration handles most installation-phase issues. This structure protects against early manufacturing defects without extending into the 15+ year lifespan typical system owners expect, requiring gap insurance or out-of-pocket spending after year 10.
Specifications
| SKU | ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Heating BTU | 60,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Lifetime Heat Exchanger, 10 Years Unit Replacement, 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 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 17.5" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | GMEC96 Installation Manual GMEC96 Specifications Sheet GMEC96 Owner's Manual GMEC96 Service Manual GMEC96 Replacement Parts Manual GMEC96 Brochure Goodman Furnace 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 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1200 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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