Goodman CAP-3 Ceiling Access Panel, No Louver, for ACST24 & ACST30
One panel covers two tonnages. The Goodman CAP-3 is the non-louvered ceiling access panel Goodman lists for both the 2-ton ACST24 and the 2.5-ton ACST30 R-32 ceiling mount air handlers. Goodman builds those two models on the same cabinet footprint, which is why they share this panel. Contractors who stock for both sizes, and property managers with a mix of 2-ton and 2.5-ton ceiling units, can carry a single solid-face panel that fits either.
Is the CAP-3 the Right Size for Your ACST Air Handler?
The CAP-3 matches the larger ACST cabinet only, meaning the ACST24 and ACST30. It is too large for the 1.5-ton ACST18, which uses the CAP-2 family. Look for "ACST24" or "ACST30" at the start of the model number on the rating plate (for example ACST24LU1306 or ACST30LU1310) to confirm the fit.
The ACST24 and ACST30 can be set up for front or bottom return. The solid CAP-3 is typically chosen when return air is ducted to the front of the cabinet and the ceiling panel serves only as a finished service opening. If the unit returns air through the bottom, the louvered CAP-3L is usually the better match. Verify your setup with the installation instructions.
Ideal for: Goodman ACST24 (2 ton) and ACST30 (2.5 ton) ceiling mount air handlers with front return, in larger condos, townhomes, and single-family homes, and in multifamily properties stocking parts for both sizes.
Need a louvered face? Choose the Goodman CAP-3L Louvered Ceiling Access Panel for the same ACST24/30 cabinet. Working on a 1.5-ton ACST18? Use the Goodman CAP-2 Ceiling Access Panel.
Fitment is based on Goodman's published ACST accessory listing. Always confirm your air handler model number and return configuration before ordering. Request free sizing assistance, contact Budget Heating, or call 813-885-7999.
What's Included
| Manufacturer | Goodman |
|---|---|
| Model | CAP-3 Ceiling Access Panel |
| Panel Style | No Louver (Solid Face) |
| Fits Air Handlers | Goodman ACST24 and ACST30 Ceiling Mount Air Handlers |
| Air Handler Capacity | 2 Ton (24,000 BTU/h) and 2.5 Ton (30,000 BTU/h) Nominal |
| Air Handler Series | Goodman ACST R-32 Ceiling Mount Series |
| Louvered Alternative | CAP-3L |
| Does Not Fit | ACST18 (use CAP-2 / CAP-2L) |
This listing includes one Goodman CAP-3 non-louvered ceiling access panel. Goodman's spec sheet lists the ACST24 and ACST30 with the same cabinet dimensions and the same maximum airflow of about 934 CFM, so one CAP-3 fits both. That makes it a practical part to keep on the truck or in a maintenance shop for either size.
Panel Features & ACST24/30 Compatibility
CAP-3 Non-Louvered Ceiling Access Panel
- Goodman-listed panel for both the ACST24 and ACST30
- One part covers 2-ton and 2.5-ton ceiling units
- Solid, non-louvered face for a plain finished ceiling
- Typically used with front-return ACST setups
- Gives a finished opening for air handler service access
- Sized to the larger shared ACST24/30 cabinet
- Same size as the louvered CAP-3L if you change styles later
- Simplifies parts stocking for mixed-tonnage properties
- Replaces a missing or damaged factory-matched panel
- Usually ships in 2 to 3 business days from Budget Heating
Goodman ACST24 & ACST30 Ceiling Mount Air Handlers
- ACST24: 24,000 BTU/h nominal (2 ton)
- ACST30: 30,000 BTU/h nominal (2.5 ton)
- Shared cabinet dimensions per Goodman's spec sheet
- Up to about 934 CFM at the highest speed taps
- Configurable front or bottom return
- R-32 refrigerant with a factory-installed R-32 sensor
- Factory-installed, fully adjustable TXV
- All-aluminum evaporator coil
- Electric heat options from 5 to 10 kW in the series
Specifications & Manuals
The Goodman ACST specification sheet shows the shared ACST24 and ACST30 cabinet dimensions, the CAP-3/3L accessory listing, and airflow performance for each model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does one CAP-3 fit both the ACST24 and ACST30?
Goodman builds the 2-ton ACST24 and 2.5-ton ACST30 on the same cabinet size, so it lists one ceiling access panel size, the CAP-3/3L, for both.
Will the CAP-3 fit a 1.5-ton ACST18?
No. The ACST18 has a smaller cabinet and uses the CAP-2 (no louver) or CAP-2L (louvered).
What model numbers take the CAP-3?
Any Goodman ACST model starting with ACST24 or ACST30, such as ACST24LU1306 or ACST30LU1310. Always confirm against your unit's rating plate.
Is a solid panel right for a front-return installation?
Usually, yes. With return air ducted to the front of the cabinet, a solid CAP-3 is the typical choice. Bottom-return setups usually call for the louvered CAP-3L. Follow your air handler's installation instructions.
Should maintenance teams keep CAP-3 panels in stock?
For properties with both 2-ton and 2.5-ton ACST units, it makes sense. One CAP-3 covers either size, which simplifies replacement parts.
Can I switch from a CAP-3 to a louvered CAP-3L later?
Both are listed for the same ACST24/30 cabinet, so you can change styles if the return setup changes. Have a technician confirm the return configuration first.
ACST Technical Specifications
