Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

Budget-friendly 2.5-ton system with impressive 97% AFUE for serious heating efficiency.

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
2.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
Current Price
$464
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This ACiQ system is ideal for budget-conscious contractors and homeowners upgrading older furnace-only setups or replacing failed split systems in moderate climates. At $464, the 97% AFUE furnace delivers exceptional heating efficiency paired with solid 13 SEER cooling, making it a smart choice for mixed heating/cooling regions where neither dominates utility bills.

Review

The ACiQ 2.5-ton system pairs a high-efficiency gas furnace with a companion air conditioner in one compact downflow unit. At $464, this Goodman-manufactured equipment addresses a real contractor need: replacing failed split systems or upgrading from furnace-only heating in one transaction. The downflow/horizontal configuration fits basements, crawlspaces, and attics where traditional upflow units won't fit. It's built on proven Goodman reciprocating compressor and modulating furnace technology, familiar to most service technicians.

The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU output at an exceptional 97% AFUE, meaning 97 cents of every heating dollar converts to warmth. The modulating burner adjusts flame intensity continuously rather than cycling on-off, reducing energy waste. Cooling comes in at 30,000 BTU with 13 SEER efficiency and a variable-speed ECM blower pushing up to 1,600 CFM. The unit runs on 208-230V single phase power, matching most residential electrical service. Plastic PVC flue capability avoids costly masonry work.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency is best-in-class, reducing winter heating costs significantly compared to 90-95% alternatives
  • Modulating burner automatically adjusts to demand, avoiding the on-off cycling waste of single-stage units
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor runs efficiently across all conditions, improving comfort and lowering electricity use
  • 13 SEER rating handles cooling adequately for a 2.5-ton system at this price point
  • PVC flue compatibility simplifies venting in many older homes where metal flues aren't practical
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and labor concerns for a full decade

Cons

  • 2.5-ton cooling capacity is modest, making this better for smaller homes or supplemental cooling rather than primary AC in hot climates
  • Single-stage condenser means cooling runs at one fixed speed, less efficient than two-stage or variable-capacity systems
  • 73 dB noise level is slightly elevated, noticeable in quiet neighborhoods or when furnace cycles during heating season
  • R454B refrigerant requires proper handling and certified technicians for service or repairs

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing replacement furnace-AC combos in moderate climates where heating load justifies the furnace investment, and homeowners in northern regions upgrading from old inefficient furnaces. This system excels when winter heating bills are the primary concern and cooling is seasonal.

Consider Alternatives If

Homeowners in hot climates relying heavily on air conditioning should skip this 2.5-ton unit and size up to a 3-5 ton system, as modest cooling capacity will struggle during peak summer demand.

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
$464
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Downflow configuration requires proper ductwork below the unit, making attic or basement mounting essential. The 22-inch height and 21-inch width fit standard utility closets and mechanical spaces. Technicians need 3/8-inch liquid line and 3/4-inch suction line with matching sweat fittings, plus refrigerant certification for R454B handling. Electrical requires a 16.7 to 25-amp breaker, standard in residential panels. Installation typically requires one day for experienced crews.

Warranty & Reliability

ACiQ backs this system with a 10-year parts and labor warranty upon online registration, covering compressor failure, heat exchanger cracks, and component defects. This matches or exceeds budget-tier equipment standards. Registration is free and takes five minutes. Coverage begins at purchase date, not installation date, so buying from reputable dealers matters.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU30,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR454B
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
AHRI Certificate Number7424271
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Flue LocationRight
Energy StarNo
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Height22"
Width21"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPT Installation Manual CAPT Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
Safety InformationPROPOSITION 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.
SEER1 (Efficiency)13
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeReciprocating
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line3/4"
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Max Breaker Size25 amps
Min. Breaker Size16.7 amps
Tonnage2.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is 97% AFUE better than the 90-95% on cheaper furnaces? +
At 97% AFUE, only 3% of fuel energy is wasted up the flue instead of 5-10% on lower-rated units. Over a 20-year furnace life in a cold climate, this 2-7% improvement saves thousands in heating costs. Modulating burners on this unit never waste fuel through full-fire cycling.
Can this downflow unit work in my attic, or does it need a basement? +
Downflow works in either location as long as ductwork extends below the unit to return and deliver properly. Attic installation requires adequate support for the 120-pound weight and proper airflow clearance. Some attics work better than basements depending on your home's layout and existing ductwork.
Is 13 SEER cooling enough for my home in Texas or Arizona? +
Not really. 13 SEER is adequate for mild climates with moderate cooling demand, but hot states require 15+ SEER and larger tonnage. A 2.5-ton unit with single-stage cooling will struggle in extreme heat and run constantly, costing more than a properly-sized 4-5 ton system with higher efficiency.
How does this compare to a Goodman 13 SEER unit at Home Depot for $600? +
This ACiQ model is Goodman-made with identical components but tighter pricing through wholesale distribution. Home Depot units include retail markup and extended warranties you may not need. Contractor-direct pricing here reflects lower overhead, not compromised quality.
What happens if my furnace fails at year six? +
The 10-year warranty covers full repair or replacement at no cost for parts or labor, provided you registered online within 30 days of purchase. Service calls are free under warranty.

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