Review
The ACiQ 3.5 ton horizontal system represents a practical middle ground in residential HVAC, blending adequate efficiency with straightforward installation and competitive pricing. This combined gas furnace and air conditioner addresses a specific market need: retrofit jobs and new builds where space is tight and budget matters. The system carries Energy Star certification and uses modern R454B refrigerant, keeping it compliant with current environmental regulations while avoiding the premium pricing of high-end units.
Performance numbers tell a balanced story. The 97% AFUE heating efficiency and modulating burner technology mean you're not wasting fuel during partial load operation, which occurs most winter days. Cooling delivers 36,000 BTU at 14 SEER1 efficiency, respectable for single stage operation. The variable speed ECM blower reaches 1600 CFM, providing adequate comfort for a 3.5 ton capacity. One trade-off: single stage compression means the cooling compressor runs full bore until reaching setpoint, rather than modulating down like pricier units.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE heating efficiency with modulating burners reduces natural gas waste and monthly heating costs
- 14 SEER cooling rating paired with R454B refrigerant meets current EPA standards for newer installations
- Variable speed ECM blower motor reaches 1600 CFM maximum airflow for balanced comfort and dehumidification
- Horizontal A-coil configuration fits tight attic or crawlspace installations where vertical units won't work
- Energy Star certified system qualifies for rebates in most utility territories, recovering $500-1500 of purchase price
- 10 year warranty with online registration provides solid protection against manufacturing defects
Cons
- Single stage compressor means cooling runs at full capacity or off, less efficient than two stage units in mild weather
- 73 dB noise level is louder than inverter-driven competitors, noticeable during evening operation
- Requires 115V single phase power with 30 amp breaker, limiting placement options in older homes with undersized electrical service
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates needing both heating and cooling efficiency without premium pricing, and contractors fitting systems into attics or horizontal spaces where footprint matters. The 34.5" height and horizontal orientation work well for existing ductwork conversions.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in very hot climates should consider two stage compressors for better part load efficiency, and those bothered by equipment noise should audition quieter variable capacity models before purchasing.
Installation
Installation complexity is moderate. The horizontal A-coil configuration requires proper suction line insulation (3/4 inch thickness provided) and line sizing at 3/4 inch for suction and 3/8 inch for liquid, standard specifications that most technicians handle routinely. Electrical demands remain modest at 115V single phase with 30 amp maximum breaker, reducing panel upgrades. PVC exhaust flue option simplifies venting in tight spaces. Most experienced HVAC crews complete installation in 6 to 8 hours.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage spans 10 years for parts and compressor when you register the system online within 60 days of installation. This protection shields against manufacturing defects in compressors, motors, and coils. Registration is free and takes 10 minutes on Goodman's website. The warranty is standard industry coverage, not exceptional, but reliable and easy to claim through Goodman's nationwide network.
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 Installations 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 | 7424266 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
Affiliate disclosure: IndustrialRank earns a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have independently reviewed.