Independent Review · Updated June 2026

3 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

High-efficiency modulating furnace and AC combo for year-round comfort

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
3 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This 3-ton system works best for homeowners upgrading older equipment or adding central cooling to homes with existing forced-air heating. The 97% AFUE furnace and 13 SEER air conditioner deliver measurable energy savings, especially in moderate climates where both heating and cooling run regularly.

Review

The ACiQ 3-ton horizontal furnace and air conditioner system combines Goodman's proven reliability with modern efficiency standards at an accessible price point. This unit targets homeowners and contractors who need dependable year-round climate control without premium features. The modulating furnace and single-stage compressor represent the middle ground of the HVAC market, offering measurable efficiency gains over older equipment while keeping installation and maintenance straightforward.

Efficiency numbers tell the real story here. The furnace delivers 97% AFUE, meaning only 3% of natural gas or propane fuel gets wasted as exhaust. Cooling capacity reaches 36,000 BTU at 13 SEER efficiency, which qualifies for Energy Star certification and performs reliably with R454B refrigerant. The variable-speed blower motor adjusts CFM up to 2000 based on demand, reducing runtime and electricity consumption compared to fixed-speed alternatives. These specs translate to approximately 15 to 25 percent lower energy bills compared to 80% AFUE furnaces from the early 2000s.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency means you lose only 3% of heating fuel to exhaust, translating to lower winter bills
  • Modulating burner adjusts heating output in stages rather than on/off, reducing temperature swings and improving comfort
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor runs quieter and consumes less electricity than fixed-speed alternatives
  • 13 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for Energy Star, with R454B refrigerant meeting current EPA standards
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid peace of mind
  • Sweat connections and 3/8 inch liquid line size simplify field repairs for experienced technicians
  • Upflow/horizontal configuration fits basements, attics, and crawl spaces

Cons

  • Single-stage compressor in the AC unit means the air conditioner runs at full capacity or off, lacking the efficiency gains of two-stage cooling
  • 3.5 ton rating slightly oversizes this unit relative to the 3 ton claim, potentially causing short-cycling in smaller homes
  • 74 dB noise level is audible during operation, noticeably louder than premium variable-capacity units

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing failed furnaces or AC systems where budget matters more than premium features, and contractors building starter systems for rental properties or modest homes. This combination delivers solid efficiency and reliability without premium pricing.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers wanting whisper-quiet operation, homes with extreme climate demands requiring two-stage cooling, or those prioritizing the absolute lowest operating costs should explore variable-capacity alternatives despite their higher upfront cost.

3 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fur
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Installation

This horizontal configuration requires 30 feet of clearance for suction line insulation and proper airflow. Sweat connections use 3/8 inch liquid lines and 7/8 inch suction lines, standard sizes that most HVAC shops stock readily. Electrical setup needs 115V single-phase 60 Hz power with a breaker between 19.1 and 30 amps. PVC exhaust flue on the right side simplifies venting through walls or roofs. Installation typically takes one technician four to six hours for a straightforward replacement.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts and labor warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship when you register the unit online within 90 days of installation. This protection applies to compressor failure, heat exchanger cracks, and component failures, though normal wear and refrigerant loss from leaks carry different terms. The warranty transfers with home sales, adding value if you're upgrading before resale.

Specifications

SKUACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU36,000
Heating BTU100,000
RefrigerantR454B
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)74
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
ReplacesGSX130362, GSX130363, GSX130365
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)13
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeReciprocating
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size3/4"
Max Breaker Size30 amps
Min. Breaker Size19.1 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
Height34.5"
Width21"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Specifications You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
Safety InformationPROPOSITION 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.
ConfigurationUpflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7424267
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2000
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/8"
Length30 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can I expect to save on heating and cooling costs compared to my 15-year-old system? +
Most homeowners see 15 to 25 percent annual savings because this system's 97% AFUE furnace and 13 SEER air conditioner are roughly double the efficiency of 80s-era equipment. Your specific savings depend on local utility rates, climate, and how well your home is insulated. High-use regions see bigger dollar savings.
Can this unit fit in my existing furnace closet if my current system is smaller? +
At 34.5 inches tall, 21 inches wide, and 28.75 inches deep, it's moderately compact for a 3-ton system. Measure your existing space first. The horizontal configuration offers flexibility, but tight closets may require relocating to an attic or basement instead.
Does the modulating burner really make a noticeable difference in comfort? +
Yes. The furnace adjusts heating output in stages rather than simply turning on and off, which prevents the temperature swings common with older systems. This means less overshooting during cold snaps and steadier comfort throughout the day, particularly noticeable in homes with poor insulation.
How does this compare to the Lennox or Carrier equivalents at similar price points? +
Goodman builds reputation on reliability and standardized service parts. Lennox and Carrier often charge 20 to 30 percent more for comparable efficiency tiers. You're sacrificing minor features and noise levels for meaningful savings, but not durability.
What does the warranty actually cover if my compressor fails? +
The 10-year warranty covers parts and labor for compressor failure due to manufacturing defects. Damage from improper installation, electrical surges, or refrigerant undercharge isn't covered. Register online to activate coverage.

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