Review
The Goodman ACiQ 3-ton system represents honest mid-market positioning in HVAC equipment. At $736, this downflow configuration bundles a gas furnace and air conditioning condenser designed for homes requiring balanced seasonal load management. It competes directly against older split systems still operating at 78 percent AFUE and 10 SEER ratings, making the efficiency jump substantial for typical replacement scenarios. The A-coil downflow design accommodates basement or closet installation common in residential retrofits.
Performance metrics tell a practical story. The furnace generates 80,000 BTU output with 97 percent AFUE through modulating burner stages, while the condenser delivers 36,000 BTU at 13 SEER1 using a single-stage reciprocating compressor. The variable-speed ECM blower reaches 1,600 CFM maximum airflow, reducing energy waste during part-load conditions when the system operates below full capacity. Refrigerant lines measure 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction, accommodating standard residential piping configurations.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace efficiency translates to measurable gas savings, approximately 30 percent more efficient than 1990s-era systems
- 13 SEER rating qualifies as ENERGY STAR certified, eligible for many state and utility rebates
- Modulating burner stages reduce short-cycling and improve comfort by varying heat output rather than on-off cycles
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor delivers up to 1,600 CFM with whisper-quiet operation in lower stages
- 10-year compressor and parts warranty with online registration provides genuine peace of mind coverage
Cons
- Single-stage condenser cannot modulate cooling capacity, meaning it cycles on-off rather than ramping output smoothly like higher-tier models
- 74 dB noise level is acceptable but noticeable, particularly during peak cooling in hot climates
- R454B refrigerant requires technicians certified in low-GWP handling, potentially limiting repair options in rural areas
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates seeking straightforward heating-cooling balance without spending $1,500 plus on premium systems. Contractors building replacement packages where budget limitations exist but ENERGY STAR certification and solid warranties are non-negotiable.
Consider Alternatives If
Hot-climate homeowners needing aggressive cooling capacity should look at higher-tonnage or two-stage compressor units, and noise-sensitive buyers should audition this unit before committing.
Installation
Installation requires standard downflow placement with adequate clearance for airflow, suction line insulation thickness of 3/8 inch, and PVC plastic exhaust venting. The 120-pound unit demands minimal structural reinforcement in most basements. Licensed technicians should verify R454B refrigerant compatibility and field charge the system according to manufacturer subcooling tables, a straightforward but mandatory step.
Warranty & Reliability
Ten years of compressor and parts coverage applies upon online registration, eliminating the need for paid warranty registration fees. This full-system protection covers labor at participating Goodman dealers, providing genuine financial protection against refrigerant leaks or compressor failure during the critical first decade of operation.
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 | 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 | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Installation 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 | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424271 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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