Review
ACiQ's 3-ton air conditioner condenser sits in the sweet spot between budget equipment and mid-range units. At $601, this 36,000 BTU unit uses modern R454B refrigerant and delivers straightforward, reliable cooling without premium frills. The vertical cased coil configuration makes it adaptable to various home layouts, and the scroll compressor is industry-standard technology that HVAC techs know well. For homeowners tired of paying $1,200 to $2,000 for name-brand condensers, this represents genuine value.
Performance specs are honest and competitive. The 14 SEER rating meets minimum efficiency standards and keeps operating costs reasonable, though it won't match high-efficiency models at 16+ SEER. At 73 dB, it's noticeably audible from 10 feet away but typical for single-stage units at this price point. The single-stage scroll compressor runs full-blast rather than modulating, which simplifies design but means slightly higher energy use during partial-load conditions. For routine cooling in mild-to-moderate climates, these trade-offs are acceptable.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 36,000 BTU capacity covers typical 3-ton cooling loads efficiently across most residential applications
- 14 SEER rating meets current efficiency standards while keeping equipment cost accessible
- R454B refrigerant is EPA-approved and future-proofs against refrigerant phase-outs affecting older units
- Single-stage scroll compressor is proven reliable technology with straightforward maintenance needs
- Vertical cased coil design accommodates both upflow and downflow installations for flexible placement
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage without expensive extended plans
Cons
- 73 dB noise level is moderately loud, comparable to window units, which some homeowners find intrusive
- Single-stage operation means the compressor runs at full capacity rather than modulating, reducing part-load efficiency
- Not Energy Star certified, so it misses rebate eligibility in some regions despite meeting SEER standards
- 208/230V 1-phase requirement limits installation flexibility in some commercial or industrial settings
Who Should Buy
Best For
This unit works best for homeowners replacing aging air conditioners in homes under 2,000 square feet, or contractors stocking inventory for maintenance calls in moderate climates. It's particularly attractive for budget-conscious buyers in regions without aggressive Energy Star rebate programs.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this model if you need Energy Star certification for rebate eligibility, require ultra-quiet operation below 70 dB, or live in extremely hot climates where modulating compressors deliver measurable efficiency gains.
Installation
This unit needs 208/230V single-phase power with a 30-amp maximum breaker and 18.7-amp minimum rating. The vertical cased coil measures 24.5 inches wide by 22 inches tall, fitting standard return plenums in most homes. Line set comes pre-insulated at 3/4 inches thick with 30 feet of copper, reducing field work. Standard refrigeration connections use 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction lines, compatible with most existing coils.
Warranty & Reliability
ACiQ provides a 10-year parts warranty when you register the unit online, which is standard in this price range. This covers compressor and component failures but typically excludes wear items. Registration is straightforward and adds no cost. Ten years is respectable coverage, though premium brands sometimes offer longer terms on sealed components.
Specifications
| SKU | ACiQ-36-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 36,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 208 / 230v 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | No |
| 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 | 22" |
| Width | 24.5" |
| 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. |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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