Independent Review · Updated June 2026

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

High-efficiency modulating furnace with 97% AFUE and 14 SEER cooling at budget price

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
2.5 Ton 14 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
$647
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This is an excellent choice for homeowners upgrading from older furnaces who want maximum efficiency without premium pricing. The 97% AFUE heating and 14 SEER cooling make it ideal for moderate climates where both seasons matter equally.

Review

The ACiQ gas furnace and air conditioning system combines practical efficiency with straightforward engineering at an accessible price point. Rated at 97% AFUE for heating and 14 SEER for cooling, this unit sits comfortably in the mid-to-upper efficiency tier for residential equipment. The upflow A-coil configuration handles standard attic installations common in most American homes. This Goodman product targets contractors and homeowners seeking meaningful utility savings without venturing into premium pricing territory.

Performance metrics justify the efficiency claims. The modulating burner continuously adjusts between lower and higher outputs, avoiding the energy waste of fixed-stage burners that cycle on and off repeatedly. The variable-speed ECM blower motor ramps between 0 and 1,600 CFM based on demand, running quietly during partial-load conditions. With 80,000 BTU heating capacity and 30,000 BTU cooling via a rotary compressor, this handles moderate residential loads competently. R454B refrigerant meets current EPA standards and carries no phaseout risk for the next decade.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 97% AFUE furnace efficiency is top-tier, reducing heating costs significantly compared to 80-85% models
  • Modulating burner adjusts output continuously, not in fixed stages, for smoother temperature control and less short-cycling
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor handles multiple speeds, optimizing efficiency for both heating and cooling cycles
  • 14 SEER cooling efficiency meets Energy Star standards with R454B refrigerant, future-proofing against phaseouts
  • Rotary compressor design is durable and proven reliable across thousands of installations
  • A-coil configuration in upflow position works for most residential attic installations without custom ductwork

Cons

  • Single-stage compressor limits cooling efficiency gain compared to two-stage or inverter models in variable load conditions
  • 72 dB noise level is audible during operation, noticeable in quiet homes or basements
  • Price point at $647 appears inconsistent with stated tonnage confusion between 2.5 ton title and 3.5 ton specs

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in mixed climates replacing 15+ year old furnaces who want one system handling both seasons efficiently. Budget-conscious upgraders prioritizing lower utility bills over premium features will appreciate the 97% AFUE rating without paying $1,200+.

Consider Alternatives If

Those in extremely cold climates needing maximum heating output, or homes with minimal cooling needs where a furnace-only solution makes more sense financially.

2.5 Ton 14 SEER 97% AFUE 80,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
$647
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation requires 115V single-phase power with a 17.1 to 25 amp breaker, standard in most homes. Upflow configuration needs proper return air ducting and furnace foundation support. The unit weighs 120 pounds, manageable for two-person installation into most attic spaces. Suction line insulation (3/4 inch thick) prevents refrigerant vapor loss and condensation. PVC exhaust flue venting is permitted, simplifying installation in retrofit scenarios where metal flues don't fit.

Warranty & Reliability

Ten-year parts and labor warranty applies with free online registration. This covers compressor, heat exchanger, and component failures during the ownership period. Registration is simple but required, so document it immediately after installation. Coverage excludes wear items like motors or electronics damaged by improper voltage or installation errors. Goodman's warranty reputation is solid, with straightforward claim processing through authorized dealers.

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)72
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)14
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeRotary
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size3/4"
Max Breaker Size25 amps
Min. Breaker Size17.1 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Height34.5"
Width21"
Depth28.75"
ResourcesGoodman 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 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.
ConfigurationUpflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line3/4"
StyleA-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number7424266
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE97%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
Burner StagesModulating
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this system include both heating and cooling, or just the furnace? +
This is a complete 2.5-ton system combining an 80,000 BTU gas furnace with a 30,000 BTU air conditioner condenser unit. You receive both heating and cooling in one package, though installation requires separate indoor and outdoor components connected by refrigerant lines.
What electrical work is needed for installation? +
The furnace requires 115V single-phase 60Hz power with a dedicated 17.1 to 25 amp circuit breaker. Most homes already have this available near the furnace location. A licensed electrician should verify breaker capacity and add a new circuit if necessary.
How much will this reduce my heating and cooling bills compared to older equipment? +
A 97% AFUE furnace uses 15 to 20 percent less fuel than an 80% AFUE model from the 1990s or early 2000s. The 14 SEER cooling matches mid-range AC units. Actual savings depend on climate and usage patterns, but expect 15 to 25 percent lower combined heating and cooling costs.
Is 14 SEER good enough, or should I wait for higher ratings? +
14 SEER is solid for mainstream applications and avoids premium pricing for marginal gains. SEER2 ratings (the new standard) typically run 1 to 2 points lower than SEER1, so this unit likely achieves SEER2 11 to 12, still respectable for the price.
What happens if something breaks after the warranty expires? +
Repairs become your responsibility. Rotary compressors typically outlast 15 years, and variable-speed motors are durable. Budget $500 to $1,500 for major repairs after year ten, depending on component failure.

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