Review
The Goodman 3 Ton 14 SEER furnace and air conditioning system positions itself as the practical middle ground between budget and performance. At 60,000 BTU heating and 36,000 BTU cooling capacity, it handles typical residential loads without oversizing, which keeps operating costs in check. The A-coil upflow configuration fits standard attic or basement installations. Energy Star certification confirms this unit meets EPA efficiency thresholds, making it attractive for homeowners seeking government-recognized performance standards without entering premium equipment territory.
Efficiency is this system's strongest selling point. The furnace delivers 96% AFUE, meaning 96 cents of every dollar spent on natural gas converts directly to usable heat. Two burner stages reduce runtime during mild weather, improving cycle efficiency. Cooling performance of 14 SEER is solid for mid-tier equipment, delivering measurable reductions in summer electric consumption. The multi-speed ECM blower motor adjusts CFM from low to 1200 maximum, preventing the constant high-speed operation that wastes energy in shoulder seasons. At 73 dB, operation is noticeable but not disruptive.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 14 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for Energy Star certification and delivers measurable savings on electric bills
- 96% AFUE furnace means nearly all fuel converts to heat, reducing natural gas waste significantly
- Two-stage burner automatically adjusts output, running at lower capacity on mild days for quieter operation and better efficiency
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor optimizes airflow across different seasons without consuming excess electricity
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides serious peace of mind on the system's most critical component
Cons
- Single-stage compressor cannot modulate cooling capacity, so the system runs full-speed or off with no middle ground
- 73 dB sound level is moderately loud during operation, noticeable in quiet home environments
- R454B refrigerant is newer, meaning fewer technicians may be fully familiar with charging and service procedures
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners replacing aging 10-12 SEER systems who prioritize long-term energy savings and want upfront costs kept reasonable. Ideal for moderate climate zones where the single-stage compressor won't cycle excessively during cooling season.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in hot climates demanding variable-capacity cooling should look for inverter-driven or dual-stage compressor models, as this single-stage unit cannot provide the modulation needed for extreme heat efficiency.
Installation
The upflow A-coil design slides into standard residential framing with a 34.5-inch height and 28-inch depth. Plastic PVC flue requirement simplifies venting compared to metal ducting. Valve sizes of 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction are industry standard, requiring no specialty fittings. The 115V, single-phase 60 Hz electrical requirement means no three-phase power is needed. Minimum breaker size of 18.7 amps accommodates most existing home electrical panels.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage breaks down into three layers: lifetime protection on the heat exchanger addresses the most expensive failure point, 10-year unit replacement covers manufacturing defects in the entire system, and 10-year parts protection covers compressor, coil, and controls. Online registration is required to activate coverage. This warranty package is competitive for equipment at this price tier and provides meaningful financial protection during the system's peak usage years.
Specifications
| SKU | ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Heating BTU | 60,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Lifetime Heat Exchanger, 10 Years Unit Replacement, 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 Ton |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 17.5" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | GMEC96 Installation Manual GMEC96 Specifications Sheet GMEC96 Owner's Manual GMEC96 Service Manual GMEC96 Replacement Parts Manual GMEC96 Brochure Goodman Furnace 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 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1200 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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