Review
The 3-ton Goodman gas furnace and air conditioner system represents a practical middle-ground solution for contractors and homeowners balancing performance with budget. This horizontal A-coil unit combines a 120,000 BTU furnace with a 36,000 BTU condenser, sized appropriately for modest to mid-sized homes. With Energy Star certification and dual-fuel capability, supporting both natural gas and propane, it addresses flexibility concerns common in regional installations. The unit carries realistic pricing expectations without premium features, making it a reliable workhorse for standard residential applications.
Efficiency numbers tell the real story. The furnace delivers 96% AFUE, meaning 96 cents of every fuel dollar converts to usable heat, a meaningful jump from older 80% units still operating in many homes. The air conditioner achieves 14 SEER, placing it solidly in the Energy Star category and qualifying buyers for rebates in many regions. The variable-speed ECM blower adjusts airflow between 0 and 2000 CFM, responding to actual heating or cooling demand rather than cycling on and off at full blast. Two-stage burner modulation further reduces temperature swings during partial-load heating, improving comfort during shoulder seasons when full furnace output isn't needed.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to older units running 80-85% AFUE
- 14 SEER rating qualifies for Energy Star certification and many utility rebates
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0 to 2000 CFM, improving comfort and reducing energy waste
- Two-stage burner provides modulating heat output for more consistent temperatures
- Dual-fuel design supports both natural gas and propane, offering flexibility for different installations
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty protects against costly furnace failures
- Relatively modest electrical draw, 18.7-30 amp range, suits most residential panels
Cons
- 14 SEER is respectable but not best-in-class; newer SEER2 ratings may be lower when converted from SEER
- Single-stage condenser limits cooling efficiency on extreme heat days compared to variable-capacity units
- 73 dB operating noise is moderately loud, noticeable in quiet homes or bedrooms near the unit
- Requires PVC exhaust flue, limiting installation flexibility in some older homes
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in transitional climates who need both heating and cooling without spending on premium variable-capacity equipment. Contractors valuing straightforward installation and solid warranty backing for rental properties or standard residential replacements.
Consider Alternatives If
Those in extremely hot climates prioritizing maximum cooling efficiency or seeking the latest SEER2 technology should explore variable-capacity or higher-tier alternatives.
Installation
Installation complexity is moderate. The unit requires standard 115V single-phase 60 Hz power with breaker capacity between 18.7 and 30 amps, fitting typical residential electrical service without upgrades. PVC exhaust flue is mandatory, which works for most modern homes but may complicate retrofits in older installations with masonry chimneys. Suction and liquid line sizing at 3/4 inch and 3/8 inch respectively follow industry standards, though proper refrigerant charging remains critical for achieving rated efficiency.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage includes a lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger, protecting against the costliest furnace failure, plus 10 years on all other components with online registration. The lifetime heat exchanger promise effectively guarantees furnace longevity, a significant safety net for buyers. Registration is simple and highly recommended to activate full warranty benefits and simplify future claims.
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 | Lifetime Heat Exchanger and 10 Years Parts 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 | 34.5" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Install 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 | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368842 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 2000 |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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