Review
The Goodman 4-ton downflow system combines a high-efficiency gas furnace with a straightforward air conditioning condenser. This SKU (ACIQ-48-EHPD-UPG) targets retrofit markets where space constraints eliminate traditional upflow installation. The modulating furnace and variable-speed blower represent practical engineering for mixed-climate homes, while the downflow configuration serves basements, crawlspaces, and tight mechanical closets where standard vertical placement fails.
Heating performance centers on the 97% AFUE furnace burning 80,000 BTU per hour, noticeably higher than mid-tier alternatives at 90-95% AFUE. The modulating burner adjusts flame intensity to match load rather than simple on-off cycling, reducing energy waste. Cooling delivers 48,000 BTU through a single-stage scroll compressor at 14 SEER1 with R454B refrigerant, meeting Energy Star standards. The variable-speed ECM blower supports up to 1600 CFM, automatically modulating airflow across heating and cooling modes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE gas furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-95% units
- 14 SEER cooling with R454B refrigerant meets current EPA standards and Energy Star certification
- Modulating burner stages optimize fuel consumption rather than cycling on and off
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts CFM from 0 to 1600, improving comfort and reducing energy waste
- PVC/plastic exhaust flue compatibility simplifies installation without masonry requirements
Cons
- Single-stage air conditioner compressor lacks the efficiency gains of two-stage or inverter models
- 5-ton capacity matches the furnace's 80,000 BTU output, but cooling tonnage (48,000 BTU) feels undersized for peak cooling in hot climates
- 74 dB noise level is moderate, noticeable during operation without sound dampening
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors retrofitting basement or downflow applications where upflow isn't feasible, and homeowners in heating-dominant climates seeking maximum furnace efficiency. The 97% AFUE justifies the investment in regions with cold winters and moderate cooling needs.
Consider Alternatives If
Homeowners in hot climates relying on heavy air conditioning should consider higher SEER units or two-stage compressors. Single-stage cooling won't match multi-stage efficiency during long cooling cycles.
Installation
Downflow configuration requires horizontal ductwork below the unit, necessitating basement or attic placement with adequate clearance for the 30-inch height and 21-inch width. PVC flue exhaust simplifies venting without requiring masonry chimneys, reducing installation complexity. Standard 115V single-phase 60Hz power demand aligns with typical residential service. Technicians should verify breaker sizing between 26.4 and 45 amps and confirm proper refrigerant line sizing (3/8-inch liquid, 7/8-inch suction with 3/8-inch insulation).
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides a 10-year parts warranty when registered online after installation. This covers compressor, heat exchanger, and components, offering reasonable long-term protection. Registration is mandatory to activate the full term, so homeowners must complete paperwork promptly. Coverage excludes wear items like filters and labor costs, standard across the industry.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-48-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 48,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 74 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 14 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 45 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 26.4 amps |
| Tonnage | 5 Ton |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | CAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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. |
| 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 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/8" |
| Length | 30 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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