Review
The ACiQ 2.5-ton system represents the practical middle ground in residential HVAC equipment. At $732, it delivers capable heating and cooling without the complexity or cost of premium brands. This upflow A-coil configuration suits most residential installations, and the Energy Star certification signals legitimate efficiency credentials rather than marketing hype. Contractors favor ACiQ for straightforward builds where homeowners want dependable performance without premium pricing.
Where this system earns respect is the heating side, where the 60,000 BTU furnace achieves 97% AFUE through modulating burners that adjust output between full and partial fire. Cooling delivers 30,000 BTU with 14 SEER efficiency, though the single-stage compressor cycles fully on or off rather than ramping capacity. The variable-speed ECM blower running to 1,200 CFM maximizes air distribution, and R454B refrigerant future-proofs against upcoming regulations. Real-world performance expectations: heating bills 5-8% lower than 90% AFUE units, cooling performance solid but not premium.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace efficiency with modulating burners reduces heating costs significantly year-round
- 14 SEER condenser qualifies as Energy Star, lowering cooling expenses and environmental impact
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor at 1,200 CFM maximum adapts to actual demand, improving comfort
- Rotary compressor is proven architecture with fewer moving parts than reciprocal designs
- R454B refrigerant meets modern environmental standards and future regulatory requirements
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides reasonable coverage for the price point
- $732 price tag makes it accessible for retrofit projects and new construction budgets
Cons
- Single-stage compressor means cooling cycles on and off rather than modulating like premium units
- 72 dB noise level is acceptable but louder than variable-capacity competitors during operation
- 3-ton cooling capacity exceeds the stated 2.5-ton rating, indicating potential oversizing for some applications
- Requires 115V 1-phase power with 17.1 to 25-amp breaker, limiting placement flexibility in some homes
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors building spec homes and budget-conscious homeowners in moderate climates who value upfront savings without sacrificing efficiency. This system works well for spaces under 1,200 sq ft or cooling loads that don't demand variable capacity compressors.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone in hot climates needing consistent modulating cooling, homes with tight electrical service panels below 25 amps, or buyers expecting whisper-quiet operation should explore higher-tier systems.
Installation
Upflow/horizontal configuration suits attics, closets, and utility rooms with minimal ductwork redesign. The unit measures 34.5 inches tall by 17.5 wide by 28.75 deep, weighing 120 pounds, making solo handling difficult on upper floors. Requires PVC exhaust flue, standard 115V single-phase power, and 3/8-inch liquid line with 3/4-inch suction line insulation. Most competent HVAC installers complete setup in 4-6 hours without complications.
Warranty & Reliability
Ten-year comprehensive coverage on parts and compressor protects your investment through the critical ownership window. Online registration is required to activate the full warranty period, so don't skip that step after installation. Coverage excludes wear items and maintenance-related failures, standard across the industry at this price tier.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 30,000 |
| Heating BTU | 60,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 72 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 14 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Rotary |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 3/4" |
| Max Breaker Size | 25 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 17.1 amps |
| Tonnage | 3 Ton |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 17.5" |
| 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 |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 3/4" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424264 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1200 |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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