Review
The Goodman 3-ton combo system bridges the gap between budget and performance, delivering a 96% AFUE furnace paired with a 14 SEER air conditioner at an accessible $415 price. This upflow A-coil configuration fits standard closet installations where ductwork moves vertically, making it ideal for retrofits in residential homes. The Energy Star certification signals that both components meet EPA efficiency thresholds, positioning this unit as a solid middle-ground choice between basic single-stage units and premium modulating systems.
Real-world heating performance comes from the 120,000 BTU two-stage gas furnace, which modulates between high and low fire to maintain comfort while reducing energy waste. The 36,000 BTU air conditioner produces 14 SEER cooling efficiency with a scroll compressor handling single-stage operation at 73 dB. The multi-speed ECM blower motor ramps from minimal airflow to 2000 CFM maximum, meaning the system pulls only the wattage it needs rather than running full-blast constantly. Electrical requirements remain light at 115V, 1-phase with a maximum 30-amp breaker, fitting most standard home circuits.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% units, translating to real savings in winter months
- 14 SEER cooling meets Energy Star standards and handles 36,000 BTU (3-ton) cooling capacity reliably for most residential applications
- Two-stage burner on furnace allows modulating heat output, improving comfort and reducing short-cycling inefficiency
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor automatically adjusts airflow from minimal to 2000 CFM, optimizing efficiency across seasons
- $415 price point represents exceptional value for a matched pair system with lifetime heat exchanger warranty
Cons
- Single-stage air conditioner compressor cannot modulate cooling capacity, making it less efficient than variable-capacity systems in partial-load scenarios
- 73 dB noise level during operation may be noticeable in quiet residential settings, particularly during cooling season
- R454B refrigerant is relatively new, meaning fewer technicians have extensive field experience compared to R410A units
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners and HVAC contractors replacing aging furnace-AC combos in moderate climates where heating and cooling needs are roughly equal throughout the year. This system performs exceptionally well in mixed climates spanning heating-dominant northern regions to balanced-load areas.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in hot climates seeking premium cooling efficiency should explore higher SEER units, and those prioritizing whisper-quiet operation should consider variable-capacity compressor systems despite higher upfront costs.
Installation
Installation requires standard 3/8-inch liquid lines and 3/4-inch suction lines with included insulation, making connections straightforward for experienced technicians. The unit dimensions (34.5 inches high, 24.5 inches wide, 28.75 inches deep) fit typical furnace closets. PVC/plastic exhaust flue on the right side allows flexible venting to roofline or sidewall. Properly sizing ductwork for 2000 CFM maximum airflow ensures optimal performance.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage includes a lifetime heat exchanger warranty, 10-year unit replacement, and 10-year parts coverage with online registration. The lifetime heat exchanger protection is notably generous for this price tier, covering the most expensive potential failure point. Registration unlocks full coverage, making the administrative step essential for buyers.
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, 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 | 3.5 Ton |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| 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 | 2000 |
| 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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