Review
The Goodman 3-ton combo system pairs a 120,000 BTU furnace with a 36,000 BTU air conditioner in a single downflow unit, priced at $3,770. This mid-range offering targets homeowners seeking balanced performance without premium costs. The furnace delivers 96% AFUE efficiency, while the condenser achieves 14 SEER1 cooling efficiency with R454B refrigerant. Both components carry Energy Star certification, signaling compliance with current efficiency standards. The downflow configuration suits basements and crawlspaces where upflow isn't practical.
Performance specs reveal a well-thought design for moderate climates. The 96% AFUE furnace burns natural gas or propane through a two-stage burner, meaning it ramps output instead of cycling on-off, reducing temperature swings by roughly 2-3 degrees. The variable-speed ECM blower pulls up to 2,000 CFM and adjusts based on heating and cooling demand. Cooling output of 36,000 BTU with a single-stage scroll compressor operates at full capacity, which works fine for mild days but uses more energy during partial-load conditions compared to modulating compressors.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means lower heating bills, especially in cold climates where furnace runtime is high
- 14 SEER cooling and R454B refrigerant meets current EPA standards with Energy Star certification
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts to actual demand, reducing noise to 73 dB and improving comfort consistency
- Two-stage burner provides modulating heat output instead of on-off cycling, reducing temperature swings
- Downflow configuration offers installation flexibility for basements and crawlspaces
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers both heating and cooling components
Cons
- Single-stage compressor means cooling operates at full capacity even on mild days, less efficient than two-stage units
- 73 dB noise level is louder than premium systems, noticeable during compressor cycles
- 3.5-ton capacity slightly oversized for true 3-ton applications, which may reduce part-load efficiency
Who Should Buy
Best For
This system works well for homeowners upgrading older 10-15 year old equipment who want modern efficiency without high-end pricing. Contractors installing in mixed climates appreciate the furnace's two-stage heating and the cooler's straightforward single-stage design.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this if you need ultra-quiet operation, live in predominantly cooling climates where a two-stage compressor would save money, or want cutting-edge 16+ SEER performance.
Installation
This downflow unit measures 30 inches tall by 24.5 inches wide by 21 inches deep, fitting standard basement utility spaces. Refrigerant lines use 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction connections with 3/4-inch insulation thickness. The furnace requires PVC or plastic exhaust venting, simplifying ductwork in tight spaces. Electrical demand is straightforward, needing 115V single-phase power with an 18.7 to 30-amp breaker. Most installations take 4-6 hours for experienced technicians.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this system with a 10-year parts and labor warranty when you register online after purchase. Registration is free and takes 10 minutes on Goodman's website. The warranty covers both the furnace and air conditioner components equally, with no parts-only limitations. This aligns with industry standard for mid-tier equipment and provides solid protection against defects.
Specifications
| SKU | ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Heating BTU | 120,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 14 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 3/4" |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 3/4" |
| Max Breaker Size | 30 Amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 18.7 Amps |
| Tonnage | 3.5 Ton |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | CAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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 | 7368845 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/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 |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
Affiliate disclosure: IndustrialRank earns a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have independently reviewed.