Independent Review · Updated June 2026

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

97% AFUE furnace with 13 SEER cooling delivers premium efficiency in compact horizontal format

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 - Horizontal
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This 2.5 ton system excels for homeowners upgrading attic or crawlspace HVAC setups where space constraints exist. The modulating furnace and variable-speed blower deliver comfort and energy savings, making it ideal for mild to moderate climates seeking ENERGY STAR performance without premium pricing.

Review

The Goodman 2.5 ton horizontal system represents a practical mid-market solution for residential HVAC replacement. This configuration targets contractors familiar with horizontal A-coil layouts and homeowners managing space limitations in attics or crawlspaces. The system pairs an 80,000 BTU modulating gas furnace with a 30,000 BTU cooling condenser, striking balance between heating capacity and cooling output for 2.5 ton applications. At this price point, the product positions itself as a solid performer rather than a premium offering.

Performance metrics show genuine strengths in heating efficiency. The 97% AFUE furnace converts fuel to usable heat exceptionally well, meaning minimal waste and lower monthly bills during winter months. Cooling delivers 13 SEER efficiency with variable-speed blower technology that adjusts motor speed to match demand, reducing energy waste during partial-load operation. The modulating burner stages similarly fine-tune heating output, preventing the on-off cycling that wastes fuel in conventional single-stage systems. Real-world heating efficiency improvements typically translate to 15-25% savings over older furnaces.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating fuel consumption and winter operating costs significantly
  • 13 SEER cooling rating qualifies for rebates and meets ENERGY STAR requirements
  • Modulating burner stages and variable-speed ECM blower optimize comfort across load conditions
  • Compact horizontal A-coil design (34.5" H x 17.5" W x 28.75" D) fits tight attic and crawlspace installations
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid long-term protection
  • R454B refrigerant uses low-GWP alternative refrigerant for environmental compliance

Cons

  • Single-stage compressor limits cooling efficiency compared to variable-capacity models in extreme heat
  • 73 dB noise level runs slightly louder than premium quiet models, noticeable in some applications
  • Reciprocating compressor design ages faster than scroll compressors in high-cycling scenarios

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing replacement systems in existing horizontal configurations and homeowners with attic or crawlspace constraints who prioritize efficiency over cutting-edge features. Budget-conscious buyers seeking ENERGY STAR compliance with modulating heat and proven Goodman brand reliability.

Consider Alternatives If

Those needing variable-capacity cooling for extreme climates, homeowners in very quiet neighborhoods, or anyone unwilling to register online should explore alternatives.

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Horizontal installation requires proper return air clearance and adequate ventilation space. Dimensions of 34.5 inches tall by 17.5 inches wide fit most standard attic framings, though verify ceiling height accommodates 28.75-inch depth. The unit connects via 3/8-inch liquid line and 3/4-inch suction line with sweat valve connections, requiring experienced HVAC soldering skills. Electrical connection demands 115V single-phase 60Hz power with 16.7 to 25 amp breaker sizing.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides 10 years of parts coverage when registered online within 60 days of installation. This warranty protects against compressor failure, heat exchanger defects, and major component failures. Online registration is straightforward but mandatory for full coverage. Labor costs and refrigerant are typically excluded, so clarify with your installer what additional service agreements apply.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU30,000
Heating BTU80,000
RefrigerantR454B
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarYes
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
Height34.5"
Width17.5"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman Brochure Goodman Installation 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 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.
ConfigurationDownflow/Horizontal
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7424270
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
Flue LocationRight
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 13 SEER compare to newer SEER2 ratings? +
SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and newer SEER2 standards use different testing conditions. SEER2 is typically 15-20% lower numerically than traditional SEER for the same unit. This system's 13 SEER converts approximately to 10.4-10.8 SEER2, meeting mid-tier efficiency without premium pricing.
Can this horizontal unit be installed in a vertical position? +
While A-coil designs offer flexibility, Goodman specifies this as downflow/horizontal only. Vertical installation requires unit certification and may void the warranty. Consult your installer before attempting orientation changes, as airflow direction affects performance.
What does the modulating furnace actually do for homeowner comfort? +
Modulating burners adjust flame intensity from 40% to 100% capacity, maintaining room temperature more steadily than single-stage furnaces that cycle on-and-off. This reduces temperature swings by 1-2 degrees, creates fewer drafts, and uses less gas achieving the set temperature.
Is R454B refrigerant better than R410A used in older systems? +
R454B has significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP of 148 versus 2088 for R410A), making it environmentally preferable. Performance is comparable, but technician availability for R454B service may be limited in rural areas currently.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
Parts coverage includes compressor, heat exchanger, coils, and most internal components when properly installed and registered. Excludes labor, refrigerant, filters, and damage from improper installation or maintenance neglect.

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