2.5 Ton 14 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This horizontal 2.5-ton system excels in attics and crawlspaces where vertical clearance is limited. The 97% AFUE furnace and 14 SEER cooling deliver strong efficiency, making it ideal for cost-conscious contractors upgrading older systems in tight installations.

Review

The ACiQ 2.5-ton horizontal furnace and air conditioner combo addresses a real market gap: quality equipment sized for tight spaces where conventional upflow units don't fit. ACiQ positions itself as Goodman's efficiency-focused line, and this system backs that claim with impressive 97% AFUE heating and 14 SEER cooling across R454B refrigerant. The modulating gas burner and variable-speed blower reflect thoughtful engineering, though the overall spec sheet reveals some trade-offs worth examining.

On the heating side, this furnace delivers 80,000 BTU with a modulating burner that adjusts flame automatically, reducing energy consumption and temperature swings compared to single-stage competitors. The variable-speed ECM blower maxes out at 1,600 CFM, scaling airflow to match actual heating demand. On cooling, the rotary compressor and single-stage condenser produce 30,000 BTU at 14 SEER1 using the newer R454B refrigerant. That cooling efficiency sits in the middle tier, not cutting-edge but respectable for retrofit applications.

Pros & Cons

Pros

97% AFUE furnace rating puts this in the top efficiency tier for gas heating
Modulating burner adjusts output automatically, reducing energy waste and temperature swings
Variable-speed ECM blower optimizes airflow without wasting electricity
Horizontal configuration fits attics and crawlspaces where traditional upflow units won't fit
R454B refrigerant aligns with EPA regulations and offers solid 14 SEER cooling performance

Cons

14 SEER1 rating lags behind modern 16-18 SEER2 competitors, limiting long-term cooling savings
Single-stage condenser design means the AC runs at full capacity even on mild days
72 dB noise level is moderately loud, which may matter in occupied attics or tight spaces
No Energy Star certification signals this doesn't meet current government efficiency benchmarks

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing in attics, crawlspaces, or horizontal return plenums where vertical furnaces create structural conflicts. Homeowners prioritizing heating efficiency and willing to accept mid-tier cooling performance will appreciate the 97% AFUE rating and modulating operation.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers seeking maximum cooling efficiency or those in hot climates where AC runs constantly should look at higher SEER2 models. New construction projects should prioritize Energy Star certified units.

2.5 Ton 14 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu

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Installation

The horizontal A-coil design requires proper ductwork orientation, typically in attics or above dropped ceilings. The unit needs a plastic or PVC exhaust flue, which most contractors can source easily. At 120 lbs and measuring 21 by 21.125 by 26 inches, it fits through standard attic access points. Electrical requires 208/230V single-phase 60Hz service with a 17.1 to 25-amp breaker, well within typical residential panels.

Warranty & Reliability

ACiQ offers a robust 10-year warranty when you register the unit online, covering parts and compressor. This matches industry standards and exceeds many budget brands, providing meaningful peace of mind. Registration typically takes five minutes and is handled through the manufacturer's website after installation.

Specifications

SKU	ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/Manufacturer	ACiQ
Cooling BTU	30,000
Heating BTU	80,000
Refrigerant	R454B
Electrical	208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	72
Weight (in lbs)	120.000000
Feature	Spec
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
Configuration	Horizontal
Energy Star	No
Burner Stages	Modulating
Fuel Type	Propane, Natural Gas
Height	21"
Width	21.125"
Depth	26"
Resources	CHPF Installation Manual CHPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil 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.
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	3.5 Ton
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	3/4"
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/4"
Length	50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this unit have 80,000 BTU heating but only 30,000 BTU cooling capacity? +

The tonnage rating (2.5 tons = 30,000 BTU cooling) reflects the AC side. The furnace is oversized for heating, which is normal in climates with harsh winters and mild summers. This mismatch benefits heating-heavy regions and allows flexible system design.

Can I install this in my attic with my existing ductwork? +

Yes, if your ducts are sized for the 1,600 CFM maximum airflow. Have an HVAC contractor verify return and supply plenum sizing. The horizontal configuration fits snugly, but you'll need adequate clearance above the unit for service access and filter changes.

How much will this modulating furnace reduce my heating bill compared to a single-stage unit? +

The 97% AFUE is already maximized, so savings come from modulating operation. By running at 40-70% capacity on mild days instead of full blast, you'll see 5-15% lower gas consumption than single-stage furnaces, depending on your climate and heating demand patterns.

Is 14 SEER1 cooling good enough, or should I upgrade to a higher SEER model? +

14 SEER1 is solid but mid-tier. If you're in the South or run AC six months yearly, a 16-18 SEER2 unit will deliver faster payback. For mixed climates where cooling is secondary, this strikes a reasonable cost-to-efficiency balance.

What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +

Parts and compressor are covered for 10 years with online registration. Labor is typically not included unless you purchase an extended service plan separately. Coverage begins on installation date, so prompt registration is essential.

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