Review
The Goodman ACiQ 3-ton system represents the practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market. Priced at $647, it delivers respectable efficiency without entering premium territory. This upflow configuration suits typical residential installations where space constraints favor vertical orientations. The unit replaces three older Goodman models, indicating solid manufacturer continuity and parts availability for contractors familiar with the brand ecosystem.
Performance metrics tell the efficiency story clearly. The furnace achieves 96% AFUE through condensing technology, capturing nearly all combustion heat into usable warmth. Cooling delivers 36,000 BTU at 13 SEER with R454B refrigerant, meeting 2023 EPA standards. The multi-speed ECM blower reaches 1,600 CFM maximum, adapting airflow to demand rather than running full-speed constantly. Two-stage burner operation in heating and single-stage cooling provide balanced comfort without excessive cycling.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% units
- 13 SEER cooling meets current minimum standards and qualifies for some utility rebates
- Two-stage burner and ECM blower motor enable precise temperature control and part-load efficiency
- R454B refrigerant complies with current EPA environmental standards without retrofit concerns
- PVC exhaust compatibility simplifies venting in tight spaces, lowering installation costs
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection for the investment
Cons
- 3.5-ton capacity may undersizing some homes in cold climates or oversizing others in mild regions
- Single-stage condenser cannot modulate cooling output, leading to more cycling and less humidity control
- 13 SEER is adequate but not exceptional, lacks premium efficiency bonuses available at 14-16 SEER
- 74 dB noise level is moderate, potentially noticeable during heating cycles in quiet spaces
- No Energy Star certification limits rebate eligibility in some states and utility programs
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors installing systems in price-sensitive residential markets and homeowners upgrading from 80% AFUE furnaces who prioritize heating efficiency. This system delivers best value in mixed or heating-dominant climates where the 96% furnace efficiency generates faster ROI.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone needing superior cooling performance in hot climates should look at single-stage systems with higher SEER ratings, and those in extremely cold regions may need larger tonnage or dual-stage compressors for demand management.
Installation
Installation complexity rates moderate for qualified technicians. The upflow configuration fits standard closet installations with 30-inch height clearance. PVC exhaust venting eliminates expensive rigid metal flue work, reducing material and labor costs. Valve connections use sweat fittings with 3/8-inch liquid and 7/8-inch suction lines, requiring proper brazing skills. Electrical demands 208/230V single-phase power at 19.1-30 amps, compatible with most residential panels.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this unit with a 10-year warranty upon online registration, covering parts and compressor defects. This matches industry standard coverage and applies to original purchasers. Registration takes minutes online and activates full protection. No labor coverage is included, so budget separately for service calls during warranty years.
Specifications
| SKU | ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Heating BTU | 100,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 74 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Energy Star | No |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | 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. |
| Replaces | GSX130362, GSX130363, GSX130365 |
| 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 |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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