Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow

96% AFUE furnace with 13 SEER cooling delivers excellent efficiency at competitive pricing

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Downflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This Goodman system excels for homeowners and contractors seeking solid efficiency without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace paired with a 13 SEER air conditioner makes it ideal for moderate climates where both heating and cooling matter equally.

Review

Goodman's 2.5 ton system combines a 40,000 BTU furnace with a 30,000 BTU air conditioner, making it a genuine two-in-one solution. This downflow configuration fits standard basement or closet installations in homes where space matters. The system arrives AHRI-certified (certificate 7368837) and Energy Star qualified, signals that engineering and testing are solid. At this capacity and efficiency tier, it competes directly with equipment costing 15-25% more from premium manufacturers.

The furnace delivers impressive 96% AFUE efficiency with dual-stage burner operation, meaning it heats smarter rather than just hotter. Cooling side brings 13 SEER performance from a single-stage reciprocating compressor running on R454B refrigerant, a low-GWP option gaining industry adoption. The variable-speed ECM blower motor with 1200 CFM maximum capacity adjusts airflow to match actual demand, cutting runtime electricity use versus fixed-speed designs. These numbers translate to measurable annual operating cost reductions, particularly in climates with substantial heating seasons.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means lower natural gas or propane bills year-round, especially valuable in cold climates
  • 13 SEER cooling on a 2.5 ton unit qualifies for Energy Star and many utility rebates
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor optimizes comfort and reduces electricity consumption compared to single-speed alternatives
  • Two-stage burner allows the furnace to modulate heat output, reducing temperature swings and improving comfort
  • PVC/plastic exhaust capability simplifies venting, reducing installation complexity and cost versus metal ductwork
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection for residential installations

Cons

  • 13 SEER is respectable but not cutting-edge; newer systems reach 15-18 SEER2 for higher cooling efficiency
  • Single-stage reciprocating compressor lacks variable capacity, so cooling runs at full output until demand drops
  • 73 dB noise level is moderate but slightly louder than scroll compressor alternatives during operation
  • R454B refrigerant is newer, meaning fewer technicians in some rural markets may have experience servicing it

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing systems in moderate climates where heating and cooling loads are comparable should seriously consider this model. Homeowners replacing older equipment and wanting efficient dual capability without top-tier pricing will see solid payback within 5-7 years.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in consistently hot climates should look at higher-SEER systems, and those prioritizing whisper-quiet operation should explore scroll compressor units.

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Installation is straightforward for trained HVAC technicians. The unit requires 115V single-phase 60Hz power with breaker sizing between 16.7 and 25 amps, standard residential supply. Refrigerant lines use 3/8 inch liquid and 3/4 inch suction connections with sweat valve interfaces. PVC venting capability eliminates costly metal flue conversion, and the downflow orientation fits most standard equipment closets. Height of 22 inches and footprint of 17.5 by 21 inches make positioning easy in tight spaces.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman backs this system with a 10-year parts warranty, activated through online registration after purchase. Coverage protects against compressor failure, heat exchanger cracks, and component defects. Registration takes five minutes and substantially extends your safety net compared to the base five-year warranty. Experienced contractors value this tier of protection for residential retrofit work where future service calls must be affordable.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU30,000
Heating BTU40,000
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
Height22"
Width17.5"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPF Installation Manual CAPF 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.
AHRI Certificate Number7368837
Airflow DirectionDownflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 13 SEER sufficient for a modern installation? +
Yes, 13 SEER meets Energy Star standards and qualifies for many utility rebates. However, newer SEER2-rated equipment achieves 15-18 SEER2, which translates to roughly 15-20% better cooling efficiency. Choose 13 SEER if upfront cost is primary concern; choose higher SEER if you plan to stay 15+ years.
Can I install this system myself? +
No. EPA Section 608 certification is legally required to handle R454B refrigerant. You need licensed technician installation for refrigerant charging, electrical hookup, and venting. Improper installation voids the warranty and creates safety and efficiency problems.
How does the two-stage burner improve heating? +
Two-stage operation runs the furnace at partial capacity during mild cold snaps, then switches to full 40,000 BTU output only when outdoor temperatures drop sharply. This modulation reduces temperature overshooting, cuts cycling losses, and improves overall comfort while maximizing that 96% AFUE rating.
How does this compare to Carrier or Lennox equipment? +
Goodman offers equal engineering at lower cost due to simpler marketing and distribution. Carrier and Lennox typically charge 20-40% more for equivalent 96% AFUE and 13 SEER performance. Real-world reliability is comparable across all three brands in residential service.
What happens after the 10-year warranty expires? +
Coverage ends and all repairs become customer responsibility. Compressor replacement at year 11-12 typically costs 1200-1800 dollars. Extended warranties are sometimes available at purchase; ask your installer about pricing before closing the deal.

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