Review
The Goodman 2.5-ton gas furnace and air conditioner system represents a pragmatic middle-ground choice for residential HVAC replacement. This upflow, A-coil configuration suits homes with basement or crawlspace equipment placement. With a 97% AFUE rating and 13 SEER cooling efficiency, the system balances genuine energy performance against affordable upfront cost, positioning itself squarely in the mainstream contractor spec range rather than premium or budget extremes.
Performance metrics confirm solid seasonal capabilities. The furnace delivers 80,000 BTU heating output with modulating burner stages that eliminate the aggressive on-off cycling common in single-stage competitors. Cooling produces 30,000 BTU (2.5-ton) capacity via a reciprocating compressor running on R454B refrigerant. The variable-speed ECM blower motor maxes out at 1,600 CFM, adjusting fan speed to match actual load demands rather than running at constant velocity. Real-world winter efficiency of 97% AFUE translates directly to measurable utility savings compared to 80-90% baseline equipment.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace rating minimizes heating fuel waste and lowers winter utility bills significantly
- Modulating burner technology adjusts flame intensity automatically, improving comfort and reducing short-cycling
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor delivers up to 1,600 CFM with quieter operation than fixed-speed alternatives
- 13 SEER rating and R454B refrigerant provide solid cooling efficiency with lower environmental impact
- Single-stage reciprocating compressor is proven, repairable technology familiar to most HVAC technicians
- PVC exhaust venting requirement simplifies installation in many retrofit scenarios versus metal ductwork
Cons
- 3.5-ton cooling capacity exceeds the stated 2.5-ton system rating, creating potential over-sizing issues for smaller homes
- Single-stage cooling compressor cannot step down capacity on mild days, consuming more electricity than two-stage alternatives
- 73 dB noise level runs slightly louder than premium inverter-driven systems during peak operation
- Reciprocating compressor generates more vibration than scroll designs, requiring proper isolation to minimize sound transmission
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in moderate climates seeking straightforward, dependable heating and cooling without complexity or premium pricing. Contractors installing retrofit systems where PVC exhaust venting is practical and customers value modulating heat control over advanced zoning.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in extremely hot climates demanding maximum cooling efficiency should explore higher SEER options. Homes requiring whisper-quiet operation or those with tight equipment spaces may find the 34.5-inch height and 73 dB noise level limiting.
Installation
Installation complexity remains moderate. The system requires 115V single-phase 60Hz power with breaker sizing between 16.7 and 25 amps, manageable in most residential panel configurations. Liquid and suction lines use standard 3/8-inch and 3/4-inch sweat connections. PVC exhaust venting simplifies penetration through exterior walls compared to metal alternatives. The condenser dimensions (34.5 inches tall, 21 inches wide, 28.75 inches deep) fit typical side-yard or equipment pad locations without extensive pad relocation.
Warranty & Reliability
Coverage extends 10 years with online registration, providing reasonable protection on compressor and major components. This is standard for mid-tier systems, not exceptional but reliable. Registration is mandatory to unlock the full term, so homeowners must complete paperwork promptly. The warranty supports contractor credibility when quoting service costs during the coverage period, though extended service agreements remain separately purchasable.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 30,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 73 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 13 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Reciprocating |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 3/4" |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 25 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 16.7 amps |
| Tonnage | 3.5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Installations 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 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/Horizontal |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424266 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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