Review
The Goodman ACiQ 3-ton system bundles a 97% AFUE gas furnace with an R454B air conditioner into a downflow configuration designed for basements or mechanical closets. At $647, it undercuts many competitors while maintaining Energy Star certification. Goodman occupies the value tier of the HVAC market, offering solid engineering without premium branding. This unit addresses the core need: moving heat in winter and cool air in summer, reliably and affordably.
The heating side delivers 80,000 BTU with a modulating burner that varies output between 25% and 100%, meaning fewer on-off cycles and steadier interior temperatures. The cooling side produces 36,000 BTU at 14 SEER with a scroll compressor, using modern R454B refrigerant. The variable-speed ECM blower peaks at 1600 CFM, allowing the system to dehumidify space efficiently without noise penalty at low speeds. Both components align with current efficiency standards without exotic controls.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace efficiency exceeds most competitors in this price range, lowering winter heating costs significantly
- 14 SEER cooling rating with R454B refrigerant meets current EPA standards and Energy Star certification
- Modulating gas burner adjusts output automatically, reducing short-cycling and improving comfort during shoulder seasons
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor scales airflow from 0-1600 CFM, improving dehumidification and comfort
- 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor, providing real peace of mind for equipment failures
- PVC exhaust compatibility simplifies installation in homes without existing metal flues
Cons
- Single-stage compressor lacks the efficiency gains of two-stage or variable-capacity cooling on mild days
- 73 dBA noise level is audible during operation, noticeable to occupants in quiet homes
- 3.5-ton cooling capacity oversizes slightly against the stated 3-ton specification, potentially causing humidity control issues
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners replacing aged furnaces in climates with meaningful heating and cooling demands who prioritize utility bills over brand name. Contractors serving rental properties or fix-and-flip projects will appreciate the reliable specs and low upfront cost without sacrificing warranty coverage.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in primarily cooling climates should explore higher-SEER units, and those in very quiet neighborhoods may find the 73 dBA output frustrating over time.
Installation
This downflow A-coil requires 115V single-phase power, a 30-amp maximum breaker, and 18.7-amp minimum service. The PVC exhaust flue mounts on the right side, simplifying venting through exterior walls. Refrigerant lines require 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction connections, both standard fittings. Total weight of 120 pounds makes solo installation feasible. Standard ductwork compatibility applies, though downflow orientation limits placement options.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year parts and labor warranty activates upon online registration, a common requirement in the value segment. This covers compressor failures, heat exchanger cracks, and component defects, but excludes misinstallation and user damage. Registration takes minutes online and protects your investment through the equipment's typical lifecycle, though service costs may apply after year five on some labor calls depending on your installer's policies.
Specifications
| SKU | ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years 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 | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Installation 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 | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424271 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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