Independent Review · Updated June 2026

1.5 Ton 14 SEER Goodman Air Conditioner with Vertical 21" Cased Coil

Budget-friendly 1.5 ton cooling with modern R454B refrigerant and solid 14 SEER efficiency

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
1.5 Ton 14 SEER Goodman Air Conditioner with Vertical 21
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This ACiQ condenser pairs well with Goodman evaporator coils for contractors building budget-conscious systems in moderate climates. The 14 SEER rating delivers respectable efficiency without premium pricing, making it ideal for replacement jobs where homeowners want reliable cooling without overspending.

Review

The ACiQ 1.5 ton air conditioner (model ACIQ-18-EHPD-UPG) occupies a practical middle ground in the residential cooling market. At 18,000 BTU capacity with 14 SEER1 efficiency, this unit targets contractors and homeowners who need straightforward, cost-effective cooling without premium pricing. The unit's use of R454B refrigerant reflects current environmental standards, while its rotary compressor design offers proven durability in light-to-moderate cooling applications.

Performance metrics show this condenser delivers solid baseline cooling performance. The 14 SEER1 rating meets minimum efficiency standards and aligns with units priced competitively in the market. Operating at 71 decibels during single-stage compression, noise levels are moderate but present. The unit accepts standard 3/8 inch liquid lines and 3/4 inch suction lines, making field connections straightforward for experienced technicians. Electrical requirements of 208/230V single-phase 60 Hz with a 30-amp maximum breaker fit most residential panels without upgrades.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Uses R454B refrigerant, a modern low-GWP option that meets current EPA standards
  • 14 SEER1 efficiency rating provides good performance for a single-stage unit at this price point
  • Compact 21 inch width fits standard equipment pads and tight installations
  • 10-year warranty with online registration covers parts and compressor
  • 3/8 inch and 3/4 inch valve sizing matches common residential line sets
  • 208/230V single-phase operation works with standard residential electrical service

Cons

  • Not Energy Star certified, so it won't qualify for some utility rebates or tax incentives
  • 71 dB noise level is moderately loud for single-stage operation, noticeable during peak cooling
  • Single-stage compressor means cycling on and off rather than variable capacity modulation

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors handling residential replacements in moderate climate zones where budget matters more than premium features. Homeowners upgrading older systems who prioritize reliable cooling and lower upfront costs over cutting-edge efficiency ratings.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in hot climates needing maximum efficiency or those pursuing Energy Star rebates should consider higher SEER units or two-stage alternatives.

1.5 Ton 14 SEER Goodman Air Conditioner with Verti
$0
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Installation

Installation requires standard HVAC practices. The 21 inch width and 22 inch height fit typical concrete pads. The included 50-foot suction line with 3/4 inch insulation thickness prevents superheat loss during longer runs. Connect the 3/8 inch liquid line and 3/4 inch suction line per the CAPF installation manual. Upflow or downflow configuration adapts to most coil orientations. Vacuum, charge with R454B, and verify electrical connections per code.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman provides a 10-year parts and compressor warranty when you register online. This coverage is solid for the price point and protects against manufacturing defects. Online registration is required to activate full coverage, so save documentation. The evaporator coil carries separate Goodman warranty terms, so verify coil warranty details with your specific matched system.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-18-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU18,000
RefrigerantR454B
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)71
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarNo
SEER1 (Efficiency)14
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeRotary
Liquid Line3/8"
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size3/4"
Max Breaker Size30 amps
Min. Breaker Size12 amps
Tonnage3 Ton
Height22"
Width21"
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.
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Suction Line3/4"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes R454B better than older refrigerants in this unit? +
R454B is a low-GWP (global warming potential) replacement for R410A that meets current EPA regulations while maintaining similar cooling capacity. It's environmentally friendlier and already approved for new equipment sales, so you won't face phase-out concerns with this unit over the next decade.
Can I use this condenser with non-Goodman evaporator coils? +
Technically yes, if tonnage and refrigerant match. However, Goodman factory-matched systems ensure optimal performance and warranty coverage. Mixing brands may void warranties or reduce efficiency. Consult the CAPF specifications sheet before pairing with third-party coils.
Is 14 SEER1 good enough, or should I spend more on higher ratings? +
14 SEER1 is baseline modern efficiency. If utility costs matter or you're in a hot climate, 16-18 SEER units save money over time. For moderate climates and budget-conscious buyers, 14 SEER delivers acceptable performance without excess cost.
How does this single-stage unit compare to two-stage competitors? +
Single-stage runs at full capacity or off, cycling frequently. Two-stage runs part-load more often, cutting noise and wear. This ACiQ costs less upfront but uses more electricity during peak season. Choose based on climate intensity and budget priorities.
Do I need to register online for the warranty to be valid? +
Yes. Goodman requires online registration within a specified period to activate the 10-year coverage. Without registration, warranty terms are limited. Register immediately after installation to protect your investment.

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