Review
The Goodman ACiQ 3-ton downflow system represents practical value in the mid-efficiency furnace market. At 647 dollars, this combination heating and cooling unit undercuts premium brands while delivering respectable 96% AFUE and 14 SEER performance. The downflow configuration suits attic or basement installation common in many homes. Goodman's market position as an accessible alternative to Carrier and Lennox means parts availability and contractor familiarity are generally strong, though this particular model emphasizes affordability over advanced features.
The furnace side impresses with 96% AFUE and two-stage burner modulation across 80,000 BTU output, ideal for heating homes up to 2,500 square feet in moderate climates. Cooling delivers 36,000 BTU through a single-stage scroll compressor and A-coil, yielding 14 SEER with R454B refrigerant. The variable-speed ECM blower reaches 1,600 CFM maximum and maintains efficiency during part-load operation. Electrical requirements are modest at 18.7 to 30 amp service, fitting most residential panels without upgrades.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency ranks among the highest available, reducing heating bills noticeably compared to 80-85% models
- 14 SEER cooling efficiency and R454B refrigerant meet current environmental standards with reasonable performance
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts CFM between 0-1600 CFM for better part-load efficiency and quieter operation
- Two-stage burner modulates heat output, reducing energy waste during mild weather operation
- Downflow configuration and compact 21x21x30 inch footprint fit tight spaces like basements and closets
- PVC/plastic exhaust option simplifies venting compared to metal flue requirements on older models
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage at this price tier
- Accepts both natural gas and propane fuel without modifications
Cons
- Not Energy Star certified, suggesting it does not meet EPA's higher voluntary efficiency tiers
- 73 dBA noise level is higher than premium variable-speed models, noticeable during operation in nearby rooms
- Single-stage condenser means cooling doesn't modulate, running full capacity or off without part-load efficiency
- A-coil design requires proper downflow installation and may complicate future service access in some layouts
- R454B refrigerant is newer and less familiar to older technicians, potentially affecting service availability in rural areas
Who Should Buy
Best For
Budget-conscious homeowners replacing 15+ year old furnaces in climates with moderate to cold winters, and contractors seeking affordable but efficient baseline equipment. Ideal for rental properties and primary residences where upfront cost matters more than premium efficiency features.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers prioritizing ultra-quiet operation, Energy Star certification, or variable-capacity cooling should look at higher-tier units with inverter compressors and dual-stage condensers.
Installation
This downflow unit requires PVC or plastic venting, simplifying exhaust installation versus metal flue systems. The compact 21x21x30 inch dimensions fit standard closet or basement locations. Technicians need AHRI-rated matching indoor coil for warranty validity. Refrigerant line sets run up to 30 feet between outdoor condenser and indoor coil, using 3/8 inch liquid and 3/4 inch suction lines with proper insulation. Professional installation ensures proper two-stage burner calibration and ECM blower programming.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides a 10-year parts and compressor warranty when registered online within 30 days of installation. This coverage is solid for the price tier but shorter than some competitors offering 12-year terms. Labor is not covered, making contractor selection important. Evaporator coil carries separate Goodman coverage. Registration is straightforward through Goodman's website and protects your investment.
Specifications
| SKU | ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 208 / 230v 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368843 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Energy Star | No |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | CAPF Installation Manual CAPF 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. |
| 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 |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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