1.5 Ton 13 SEER Goodman Air Conditioner with Horizontal 17.5" Cased Coil Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This ACiQ evaporator coil is ideal for contractors replacing worn indoor units in 1.5 ton split systems, especially those standardizing on R454B refrigerant. It delivers respectable 13 SEER1 efficiency without premium pricing, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious homeowners and service technicians managing multiple installations.

Review

The ACiQ ACIQ-18-EHPD-UPG represents the practical middle ground in residential evaporator coils. This horizontal 1.5 ton unit, rated at 18,000 BTU cooling capacity, targets the replacement and new installation market where contractors value straightforward integration and homeowners appreciate non-premium pricing. With R454B refrigerant and a 10-year warranty, it reflects current industry standards without cutting corners on reliability.

Performance-wise, the unit delivers 13 SEER1 efficiency through a single-stage rotary compressor operating on standard 208/230V single-phase power. The 17.5 inch horizontal A-coil configuration accepts 3/4 inch suction and 3/8 inch liquid lines with sweat connections. At 120 pounds and 50 feet of pre-charged lineset, installation proves straightforward for experienced technicians. The 74 dB noise level is acceptable for residential use, though not class-leading.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Lightweight 120 lb design simplifies attic and basement installation compared to heavier competitors
13 SEER1 efficiency strikes solid balance between performance and affordability for retrofit applications
R454B refrigerant aligns with industry transition away from R410A, future-proofing new systems
10-year warranty with online registration provides meaningful protection for residential installations
Compact 17.5 inch height fits tight horizontal spaces where traditional A-coils won't fit

Cons

Single-stage operation lacks variable capacity found in higher-tier models, reducing comfort modulation
74 dB noise level runs louder than dual-stage compressor alternatives, noticeable in quiet spaces
No Energy Star certification indicates it doesn't meet EPA's stricter 2023 standards

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors performing 1.5 ton system replacements and homeowners seeking proven reliability without premium costs should target this coil. It's particularly valuable for attic installations where weight matters and for technicians standardizing fleets on R454B.

Consider Alternatives If

Homeowners prioritizing whisper-quiet operation or maximum seasonal efficiency should explore dual-stage units with 16+ SEER ratings, despite higher upfront investment.

1.5 Ton 13 SEER Goodman Air Conditioner with Horiz

Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation demands standard HVAC proficiency. The coil's sweat valve connections require soldering or nitrogen purging during brazing. The 17.5 inch height fits most standard horizontal plenums and attic spaces. Technicians should verify the condenser unit matches the 1.5 ton capacity and R454B compatibility. The 50-foot lineset typically covers most residential layouts without additional refrigerant cylinder purchases.

Warranty & Reliability

ACiQ provides a full 10-year compressor and parts warranty upon online registration. This covers manufacturing defects but excludes normal wear, improper installation, and refrigerant loss from leaks. Registration is straightforward through the manufacturer's website. For contractors, this warranty supports customer confidence in retrofit applications and provides reasonable protection against premature component failure.

Specifications

SKU	ACIQ-18-EHPD-UPG
Brand/Manufacturer	ACiQ
Cooling BTU	18,000
Refrigerant	R454B
Electrical	208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	74
Weight (in lbs)	120.000000
Feature	Spec
Energy Star	No
SEER1 (Efficiency)	13
Condenser Stages	Single Stage
Compressor Type	Rotary
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	3/4"
Liquid Valve Size	3/8"
Max Breaker Size	15 amps
Min. Breaker Size	9.1 amps
Tonnage	2.5 Ton
Valve Type	Sweat
Height	17.5"
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.
Configuration	Horizontal
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/4"
Length	50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this unit use R454B instead of R410A? +

R454B offers lower global warming potential, aligning with EPA environmental regulations phasing out R410A by 2025. Modern condensers manufactured after 2022 increasingly pair with R454B to meet compliance requirements. New installations should standardize on this refrigerant to avoid compatibility issues during future service calls.

Can I use this coil with an older R410A condenser unit? +

No, refrigerant switching requires component replacement. You cannot mix R454B with R410A systems, and cross-charging creates safety hazards and voids warranties. If upgrading from legacy R410A systems, budget for new matched coil and condenser pairs to ensure proper performance and compliance.

How does 13 SEER1 compare to newer standards? +

13 SEER1 meets minimum federal efficiency standards but trails premium models rated 16-18 SEER1. The difference translates to approximately 15-20 percent higher annual energy consumption. For budget-conscious homeowners in moderate climates, 13 SEER1 remains practical, though efficiency-focused buyers should compare lifecycle costs.

What makes this coil better or worse than Goodman or Daikin alternatives? +

ACiQ positions itself as value-engineered alternative to premium brands with comparable reliability. While Goodman and Daikin offer higher SEER ratings and quieter operation at 65-68 dB, this unit costs considerably less upfront. Trade-offs include single-stage compression and louder operation, but the 10-year warranty and R454B compatibility remain competitive.

Does online warranty registration actually work smoothly? +

Yes, ACiQ's registration process is straightforward and typically takes 5-10 minutes. Keep your receipt and warranty documentation after completing online registration. The manufacturer honors claims within the policy terms, making registration essential for protecting your investment against defects.

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